One of the most used apps on my phone would be
Waze, so what better app to choose to critique? I use this app any time I visit
someplace new, if I am not sure of the best route to take, or just to
check on the traffic situation. I love the versatility of the application. It
offers not only the GPS functions but will also suggest parks, restaurants,
search gas prices, and more for nearby locations.
Usability
Overall, the usability of this app is wonderful. It has an easy to find search
option as soon as the App loads, as well as many other options. One of my
favorite options is the traffic option. I can find alternate routes based on
accidents or other hazards blocking my trip. They also have police functions
which tell you where police are located.
Design:
The screens are very easy to use and are not too distracting, but I definitely
recommend setting all the parameters you would like before putting your car in
gear. If you do need to use while operating the vehicle, there is a larger
microphone icon that you can touch to use talk text to get directions. Most of
the featured options have large designs so as to not divert your eyes from the
road for too long, but as I mentioned before, these settings should be taken
care of before leaving 
Functionality:
This app is very user-oriented in the fact that many of the options are
available because app users submit the information. One of my favorite options
is the traffic option. Wazers (members who use the app) can report accidents,
stalled cars, and road closures among other things. I can find alternate routes
based on accidents or other hazards blocking my trip. They also have police
functions that tell you where police are located, for those who do not want to
receive a speeding ticket. Then there is, of course, the primary function of
getting you where you need to go with it’s GPS features which have yet to steer
me wrong. The maps are updated frequently and directions are clear.
App Recommendations:
Microphone Functioning:
One recommendation that I would have for the app
designers is to make the hands-free options better. Most of the time when I try
to use it, I have to get to the keyboard and use the microphone there because
the app microphone just circles repeatedly until it times out.
Reporting:
While I love the fact that Wazers can report crashes, police, etc… on the app,
I think there needs to be an easier hands-free way to do it. I do not report
accidents and stuff most of the time because I am driving and can’t type in the
information
Shortcuts:
Another suggestion would be an easier ability to set shortcuts and favorites.
If you can do it by voice command, I have not found it. I would like to set it
right away because chances are by the
time I arrive at my destination, I
will forget and then the next time I will have to input again or hope that it
is still in recent trips.
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