ArtTrack
role
Product Design, UX & UI, Branding, UX Research
tools
Figma, Adobe CC
year
Apr 2024
01. Problem
Current art logistics involve significant risks with the potential for major losses of culturally significant and priceless pieces. Artwork damage isn't just physical but is equally affected by misplacement, loss of records, and more due to human error. Within UXD Lab, I was tasked with creating the MVP for this EU-funded research project for proof of concept.
By exploring the potential applications of blockchain technology, ArtTrack aims to reduce the necessity of physically moving fragile and expensive artwork while still maintaining complete and secure documentation and preservation of art integrity.
How can archivists track, protect, and prevent collection pieces from transit damage, theft, logistics issues, and human error on the go?
02. Research
Though not in scope, I utilized my network and proximity to creatives for preliminary research. I wanted to ensure the flow of the process solved real existing challenges with prioritization of usabilioty for non-technicala backgrounds. A big importance was leveraging the security in blockchain while keeping the complexity in the backend.
The biggest issue revealed was not moving artworks, but the natural gaps of communication during handoff processes when outsourcing to third-parties. There ends up being too many cooks in the kitchen.
Interviewing Archivists
Art curators and archivists Rachel and Kae shared insights on challenges such as:
• Understaffing
• Frequent miscommunication
• Added complexities of outsourcing
• Unique archival methods between galleries
Online Research
Articles on art logistics shared challenges like:
• Secrecy and distrust of process
• Intense confidentiality
• Miscommunication and mishandling
• Lack of modern technology
• Trad methods impact efficiency and security
03. Approach
To begin the design process, I outlined the system architecture and flow of the ArtTrack app. Our client's app would be the primary touchpoint for archivists on the go to ensure they always have real-time information on each artwork. Afterward, I wireframed and prototyped to showcase the primary features for buy-in.
ArtTrack leverages the security and documentation of blockchain technology for secure custody transfers of artwork with encrypted document management. Using sensors on the artwork's box, the app allows archivists to monitor real-time storage conditions per artwork.
Prototype
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ArtTrack Prototype
gallery
