Objective:

The objective of this assignment is to evaluate your ability to analyze accounting

requirements, understand user needs, and propose enhancements to improve user
experience and functionality.

Context:

You are part of a product research team at a prominent accounting software company.
Your team has been assigned to enhance an existing accounting software application used
by small businesses. The current software includes basic features such as bookkeeping,
invoicing, and financial reporting. Your task is to identify areas for improvement and
propose new features or enhancements that will enhance the software's value proposition
and user satisfaction (potentially in the space of new age tech)

Assignment Tasks:

1. Market Analysis (30%):

Conduct research on existing accounting software solutions in the market. Identify at

least three competitors catering to small businesses and analyze their key features,
strengths, weaknesses, and target market. Provide a concise overview of each competitor
and highlight any innovative features that stand out to you.

2. User Research (30%):

Define the target audience for the accounting software and conduct user research to
understand their pain points, challenges, and needs. Develop user personas representing
typical users of the software, including their roles, responsibilities, and specific
accounting requirements. Use this information to identify opportunities for improvement
and new feature ideas.

3. Feature Proposal (40%):

 Based on your market and user research, propose at least three new features or
enhancements for the accounting software. For each proposed feature, provide a detailed
description, outlining its functionality, benefits to users, and how it addresses specific
user needs or pain points identified in your research. Additionally, discuss any technical
considerations or requirements for implementing each feature.

Deliverables:

- A written report (maximum 3 pages) summarizing your research findings and feature
proposals.

- Visual aids such as flowcharts, mockups, or user journey maps to illustrate your
proposals (optional but recommended).

- A presentation (maximum 5 minutes) presenting your findings and proposals,

emphasizing key insights and recommendations.

Evaluation Criteria:

- Thoroughness and depth of market analysis.

- Relevance and insightfulness of user research.

- Creativity and practicality of feature proposals.

- Clarity and effectiveness of communication in the written report and presentation.

Additional Notes:

- Be innovative and think critically when proposing new features.

- Ensure that your proposals align with the needs and expectations of small business users
in the accounting software market.

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