European Digital Undergraduate Review

Day to day, I create several reports a week designed to portray the penetration of the app, and I liase with branches across Europe regarding ongoing projects related to My Honda+. My main project at Honda was preparing and presenting a proposal for several new features to be added to the app. This involved analysing customer feedback and liasing with various teams to understand how these new additions could be implemented, and the cost vs return for each proposed change.
Within the first half of my placement, I was asked to compile research on Honda's connectivity competitors. During this project, I was able to test cars from several companies such as Tesla, Volkswagen and Hyundai. This provided valuable insight into the connected services sector and the features that other OEM's provide.
I was also involved development of a survey for users across Europe to understand how the app experience could be improved. We then utilised this information to evaluate wire-frames created by our developers, providing feedback that influenced several updates of the app.

Yes, I was given a good level of responsibility during my placement, which allowed me to feel like a valued member of the team. I led my own project proposing new features for the My Honda+ app, which involved customer research, cost analysis, and presenting alone to senior managers. I was also trusted to produce regular performance reports and conduct app testing and competitor testing alone with the cars. Throughout, my manager provided great support and guidance, which helped me grow in confidence while developing key technical and professional skills.

Data Analysis & Reporting – Created regular reports to track app performance across European markets
Cross-Cultural Communication – Liaised with regional teams across Europe to align on project goals
User-Centred Design Thinking – Analysed customer feedback and app data to inform product improvements
Product Proposal Development – Researched, scoped, and presented app feature proposals, including cost-benefit analysis
Market Research & Competitor Benchmarking – Evaluated connected services from major OEMs like Tesla and Volkswagen
UX Evaluation – Contributed to user surveys and wireframe testing to guide app design iterations
Collaboration with Development Teams – Provided actionable feedback to developers, influencing app update cycles
Vehicle Connectivity – Developed in-depth knowledge of the Telematics Control Unit (TCU) and its role in data flow, diagnostics, and connected services in EVs.
User Acceptance Testing – Conducted structured test cycles, raising tickets and tracking fixes using Azure DevOps.
Use of SAP and MicroStrategy for data gathering / Power BI & Excel for data analysis

I was supported by an incredibly helpful team, especially Herbie, James, Tom, and JP! They were always willing to offer advice and guidance, helping me build both confidence and key skills especially when working with unfamiliar programs such as Power BI, SAP and Panex. Despite being the only woman in the team at the time (which worried me before I started) I felt very included and encouraged.

The company culture itself was quite different to other places I have worked previously. My team itself was very warm and understanding, the culture within the office itself is still quite formal. The dress code is largely business formal, although there is a 'dress for your day' policy so smart jeans are allowed. Everyone is very respectful, and the working style is inspired by Japan.

I enjoyed my placement very much! My team was engaging and supportive, and I enjoyed attending the office to see my colleagues. The work varied day to day which always kept it interesting. I also got to attend a variety of events such as Goodwood festival of speed, and several rugby games at Twickenham.

Yes