Re-visualise Cars24 App as an Automotive Super App | PM Interview Product Design
Problem Statement
Cars24 currently solves for used car buying, used car selling and availing used car loans. However, all of these use cases are relatively low frequency. Visualise the revamped home page and user journey on Cars24 app for multiple service offerings.
Assumptions
Business model- Cars24 is an online marketplace for buyers and sellers of used cars. It enables used car sellers/dealers with instant car selling service by providing instant price quote. Buyers can book test drives, access vehicle certifications and loans while purchasing the car from Cars24.
User persona- The user groups include used car sellers (including dealers) and buyers.
User Personas and Needs
Current User Journey
While the user journeys are available for buyers and sellers of used cars, there are no journeys/offerings to cater to customers’ recurring automotive needs. Thus, Cars24 currently faces very low repeat rates.
- Avg. time to change car in India is 5+ years thus user can be expected to visit Cars24 again after ~5 years
- This visit will likely be to sell the old car and the user might opt for a new car purchase instead of second-hand car
- No service offerings for existing and new car owners
Currently, very low repeat rates for Cars24 users (no journey for repeat users)
Let’s look at the user journeys of the existing user groups.
Potential Service Offerings and Prioritization
Upon asked to explore potential service offerings and prioritize two of them, the prioritization can be done using multiple ways, one of the most common being RICE framework.
I. Vehicle Maintenance
Vehicle maintenance services can be offered along with car purchase and as a standalone service. These services can be offered as one-time or as packages/subscriptions. Cars24 can leverage its existing infrastructure and also partner with garages (eg. franchise model).
II. Vehicle Accessories
Vehicle accessories like mobile holders, steering wheel covers, neck pillows etc. can be sold on Cars24 along with car purchase and as a standalone product offerings. Cars24 can leverage its existing analytics capabilities to provide smart suggestions based on car type and model.
New User Journey
Homepage and Journey Wireframes
While designing the homepage and user journeys, following things should be kept in mind-
- Prioritize accessibility by featuring multiple service offerings prominently.
- Include helpful tools like a search bar or chatbot for assisted navigation.
- Enhance visual appeal with elements like horizontally scrollable feed cards to effectively communicate value.
In conclusion, product design questions in product management interviews serve as prime opportunities to exhibit critical thinking, user empathy, and alignment with business objectives. It’s crucial to remember that beyond providing solutions, the key lies in demonstrating a thoughtful, user-centered approach to problem-solving.
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