Field Lineman
The problem
Field linemen faced significant friction when logging their time and documenting power restoration efforts. Their workflow required booting up laptops in their trucks—a process that could take up to 45 minutes each day just to access the necessary software. In many cases, unreliable connectivity forced them to manually record information on paper and re-enter it later, creating inefficiencies and increasing the risk of errors.
Our goal was to design a solution that streamlined data entry and supported their workflows in the field—enhancing their day-to-day tasks rather than adding to them.
Discovery
To fully understand the problem space, we conducted field research alongside linemen, observing their day-to-day workflows in real environments. We found that while their core tasks were straightforward, the tools they relied on created unnecessary friction.
Key pain points included:
Slow and unreliable laptop startup times
Inconsistent internet connectivity in the field
Manual syncing requirements to access or update job information
Redundant workflows, including writing notes on paper before entering them digitally
These insights made it clear that the issue wasn’t the work itself—it was the system surrounding it.
Define & Ideate
We facilitated collaborative workshops that brought together stakeholders, IT partners, and end users to align on the problem and co-create solutions. These sessions helped bridge the gap between field realities and internal assumptions, giving stakeholders a clearer understanding of the challenges linemen faced.
Through exercises like Crazy 8’s and group sketching, participants explored a wide range of ideas and features. Working in smaller groups encouraged broader participation and allowed quieter voices to contribute more confidently. These ideas were then synthesized into shared concepts, helping us define a clear direction for the product.
On the left, you’ll see one of our linemen that was able to sketch out his ideal workflow.
Prototype, Test, & Implement
Using insights from the workshops, the UX Architect and I translated concepts into cohesive wireframes that prioritized usability and efficiency. We combined the strongest ideas into a unified experience designed specifically for field conditions.
I then developed high-fidelity prototypes, which were tested directly with end users. This allowed us to quickly validate assumptions, gather feedback, and iterate in real time. Once validated, designs moved into development, where we continued to refine the experience through sprint cycles.
The final solution enabled linemen to complete tasks more efficiently without disrupting their workflow—reducing time spent on data entry and allowing them to focus on their primary responsibility: restoring power and serving customers.
