Multiple Bids Submission on Fixsee Vendor Portal
Context
Fixsee is a portal for Home Partner's contracted vendors receive repair work, schedule visits, provide necessary information and updates back to Home Partners. When a vendor receives a work order, they are assigned a budget referred to as the "NTE" (Not-to-Exceed) amount. If a higher amount is required to complete the work, vendors must submit a bid and obtain approval from Home Partners.
Challenge
The current process involves significant back-and-forth communication, often resulting in delays and frustration for vendors striving to meet deadlines.
The inability to submit multiple bids simultaneously restricts vendors' ability to propose alternative solutions, slowing decision-making and limiting Pathlight’s ability to choose the most appropriate solutions. In some cases, the cheaper option at the moment may not be the best long term solution.
Inconsistent bid submissions complicate cost tracking for Home Partners, making it challenging to maintain accurate oversight of expenses.
Goals
Support for Multiple Bid Submissions
Allow vendors to submit multiple bids simultaneously, giving Home Partners the flexibility to review and consider alternative options more efficiently.Data Completeness and Accuracy
Replace free-form text boxes with a quantifiable issue reporting method that enables Home Partners to collect accurate data on the costs and estimated completion times for specific issues, improving planning and decision-making.Mobile Friendly
The system is accessible from both desktop and mobile, allowing vendors to conveniently submit bids while on-site, allowing them to complete repair work in a single visit when possible.
Final Design
Structured Issue Reporting
Vendors now specify either 1 or multiple issues by selecting a component, part, and issue, replacing the previous free-form text box for clearer and more consistent submissions.
Add Alternative or Duplicate Bids
Users can add alternative bid options or duplicate an existing bid option to make edits, so they don't need to start from scratch again.
Updated Banner Messages
Once vendor has submitted their bid(s), there will be a banner message on the associated work order page that clearly displays its status, any price updates, and next steps.
Mobile Version
Users can now submit bids directly from their mobile devices, enabling the possibility of receiving approval and completing a job on the spot.
Outcome
The redesigned bid page features a clean, clutter-free interface - making it easier and quicker for users to provide bid(s) without stress, while optimizing usability.
4.1 out of 5
22.1 Days
$713
With data gathered from reported issues, estimated completion dates, pricing, and vendor specialties, we successfully launched the "Preferred Vendor" project. This initiative helped Home Partners allocate work orders to the most cost- and time-efficient vendors based on their expertise in specific categories.