Process
We conducted research for this project in three phases: exploratory, generative, and evaluative. At the end of each phase, we presented findings and design implications to our contacts at Microsoft for discussion and feedback. We tracked all our research and findings through the team's weblog, which is currently accessible at http://milife.howardesign.com.

Our research in the exploratory phase included surveys, interviews, fly-on-the-wall observation, and shadowing. During this phase, we also conducted an extensive literature review in the area of mobile computing, and a competitive analysis of cutting-edge products and technologies.

In the generative phase, we used a card sorting activity to better understand the users' conceptions of mobility, and to find out what kind of activities people most wanted to do while mobile. In order to appreciate the demands and constraints of the mobile environment, we held most team meetings away from our studio, opting instead for meeting rooms, common areas, or coffee shops on or near campus.

In the final phase, we evaluated our prototypes and system with a group of people who matched our target audience. My team members and I also carried physical prototypes for multiple days to determine if the size and orientation of our product were conducive to use in various mobile environments.

Solution
We designed a dual-screen handheld computer, called the Scout, that acted as a window to the user's network of people and digital information. The operating system on our device allowed users to access files from their home and office computers using a search-based interface. The Scout supported collaboration and communication with an easy method for creating a shared view of one of its screens.

Our final presentation to Microsoft consisted of a full system overview, a physical prototype, and a short scenario of how the Scout would fit into one person's life. Please feel free to view the scenario and system overview using the links at right.