Product design and experimentation at Facebook
My Role
Product Designer (2016-2017)
Status
Part of R&D and exploration at Connectivity Labs
Summary of the work at Facebook
Overview
Our primary objective in this project was to explore the challenges of infrastructure-level connectivity in emerging markets like India. We aimed to identify key gaps and explore solutions that provides accessibility and reliability.
I contributed to multiple research, design, and experimentation initiatives, focusing primarily on two key areas: the development of a Bluetooth Mesh infrastructure and the creation of a digital street address mapping system. These initiatives were aimed to enhance connectivity and navigation, addressing critical infrastructure gaps.
I collaborated with various cross-functional teams, including Open Labs, Ads, Messenger, and Crisis Center. This experience provided valuable learnings for me into large-scale connectivity challenges and product innovation. While specific details remain under NDA, this project was a significant learning opportunity in designing impactful solutions for emerging markets.
Offline mode for Messenger
We explored offline communication by leveraging Bluetooth Mesh to enhance connectivity in low-network environments. Our goal was to develop offline messaging for Messenger and Messenger Lite, enabling seamless communication without internet access.
Using Bluetooth 5's low-energy relay network, we tested and validated decentralized, device-to-device communication. Through experimentation, we refined our approach, demonstrating Bluetooth Mesh’s potential to support reliable messaging in connectivity-challenged regions.
Crisis Response on Messenger
Leveraging Bluetooth 5 Mesh, we aimed to strengthen Messenger’s Crisis Response module, enabling seamless communication in areas affected by infrastructure damage during natural and civic crises. This solution ensured connectivity even when traditional networks were unavailable.
By utilizing BLE5’s low-energy relay network, we facilitated peer-to-peer messaging, providing a resilient communication channel in emergencies. This work highlighted the potential of decentralized offline messaging to support disaster response and empower affected communities.
Gamifying Open Street Maps
We aimed to develop a product that encourages and incentivizes users to contribute data points to OpenStreetMap, improving its accuracy and coverage. Our focus was on making the contribution process more engaging and accessible through user participation.
At the time of my last involvement, we were defining an augmented reality (AR) geo-tagging mobile application in its early development phase. This app leveraged AR to make data collection intuitive and interactive, streamlining the process of mapping real-world locations while enhancing user engagement.
