Foci mockup screens showing the smart desk device alongside its companion mobile app.

Project Overview

T-Nova

Tnova is a conversational UI designed to solve the confusion users face when navigating complex Tesla Energy configuration menus. By leveraging a personalized chatbot experience, the project simplifies the decision-making process for solar panels, roofs, and Powerwall systems. The result is a streamlined, 5-step user journey that transforms technical specifications into tailored product recommendations.

Key Terms

UX Research

User Testing

Role

Interaction Designer

Tools

Voice Flow

Figma

Figjam

The Challenge

Potential customers find scrolling through complex configuration menus for Tesla Energy products (Solar Panels, Solar Roof, Powerwall) confusing and overwhelming.

Research & Audience

Objective:

Understand how to bridge the gap between technical specs and first-time renewable energy adopters.

Target Audience:

Environmentally conscious individuals
Tesla enthusiasts
Tech-savvy consumers.

Key Value Propositions

Personalized Recommendations:

Tailoring setups to user needs.

Side-by-Side Comparisons:

Providing data for informed decisions.

Guidance on Next Steps:

Helping users take immediate action.

User Journey Map

Must Haves

Onboarding

Goal setting

Scheduling

Progress tracker

Variable Rewards

Should Haves

Streak Freezing

Daily Badge

Achievements

Group Activity

Compatibility

Could Haves

Daily motivation

Sign Up bonus

Group Leaderboard

Subscription Model

Group chat

Won't Haves

Social media inte.

Content Uploading

Expert Tutorial

Data monetization

Music integration

Must Haves

Onboarding

Goal setting

Scheduling

Progress tracker

Variable Rewards

Should Haves

Streak Freezing

Daily Badge

Achievements

Group Activity

Compatibility

Could Haves

Daily motivation

Sign Up bonus

Group Leaderboard

Subscription Model

Group chat

Won't Haves

Social media inte.

Content Uploading

Expert Tutorial

Data monetization

Music integration

The Workflow

I structured the conversation into a clear 5-step workflow to ensure a low-friction user journey:

1. Explore

Get initial recommendations.

2. Solar Panels

Specific learning and data gathering.

3. Solar Roof

Finding the right system size.

4. Powerwall

Comparing models and combined systems.

5. Estimates

Receiving exact estimates for a total home setup.

Visual Identity

To maintain the premium Tesla feel, I used a minimalist design system

Color Style

Typography

Buttons

Chat Bot UI

Usability Testing & Iteration

I conducted testing with 4 participants to measure the success of the conversational flow.

Avg Confidence

8/10

Avg Confusion

2/10

Avg Satisfaction

9/10

Key Iterations Based on Feedback:

Clarification:

Rephrased questions regarding system size and contact details to reduce user drop-off.

Consistency:

Standardize product naming across all chat prompts for better brand recognition.

Final Outcome & Reflections

The final Tnova chatbot effectively transforms a technical configuration task into a guided, human-centric conversation.

Impact of Iterations: By rephrasing technical questions and postponing contact data collection, the Success Matrix for the final workflow improved to nearly a seamless experience.

Next Steps: I plan to add real-time local utility rate integration to the Estimates step, making the ROI (Return on Investment) calculations even more accurate for homeowners.

What I Learned: Conversational UI is less about clicks and more about clarity. Tree testing taught me that if the words aren't right, the best visual design in the world won't save the user from getting lost.

Leveraging the Build, Measure, Learn framework enables fast experimentation and validation of ideas, ensuring the product aligns with real user needs and achieves a strong market fit early in the process.

Impact of Iterations: By rephrasing technical questions and postponing contact data collection, the Success Matrix for the final workflow improved to nearly a seamless experience.

Next Steps: I plan to add real-time local utility rate integration to the Estimates step, making the ROI (Return on Investment) calculations even more accurate for homeowners.

Curious about the "why" behind the "what"?

I have the full process documented and am always open to discussing the details. Feel free to reach out. I’d love to connect.

Email Me