Research & Insights
Through product research, we identified that Midea’s user base for Chinese-style dishwashers spans all age groups—from younger generations to seniors. Younger users prioritize convenience, seeking seamless control that fits their fast-paced lifestyles. Housewives, meanwhile, demand exceptional cleaning performance and customized solutions for different types of tableware. Older users emphasize ease of use. Thus, the UI design needed to balance three core requirements: "convenience", "precision", and "user-friendliness".
Solution
As dishwashers originated in Western markets, their penetration in China remains lower, and users have less familiarity with their functionalities. To address this unfamiliarity, we proposed the innovative concept of "replacing cleaning power with soiling levels". We paired visual icons with specific soiling degrees to guide users in selecting appropriate cleaning programs. This approach allows users of all ages to intuitively match icons with the dirtiness of their dishes, selecting the most suitable settings.
Results & Impact
This project marked a pioneering effort for Midea’s dishwasher category. Beyond optimizing visual design and operational logic, we prioritized user-centric thinking—listening to their pain points, analyzing usage challenges, and addressing their needs. The result is an interface that balances uniqueness with rationality, delivering both convenience and accuracy.
