StellarSky
Role
UX Designer and Usability Test Moderator
Date
December 2022
Project Overview
Stellarsky is an application developed as an in-class project tailored specifically for students at UT Dallas. The primary aim of the app is to streamline the path to academic success by leveraging peer support and accessible resources. Through extensive user-experience research, a range of features were carefully crafted to address the unique needs of students.
Challenges
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Approaching user research with a small sample size in order to carefully develop meaningful product development insights
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Limited resources creating the mobile application
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Beginners knowledge of the user experience design process
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Completion of the mobile application within a 2-month period
First Steps
As students new to the user experience design process, our initial step in developing StellarSky involved extensive research and literature review focused on applications supporting students' academic success. Opting for a qualitative research approach, we closely examined the behaviors of UT Dallas students through interviews, behavioral observations, and usability testing. An empathy map was created allowing ourselves to be completely open-minded towards our users.
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Based on our qualitative research approach towards our application, the team and I have developed a detailed user persona. This persona encapsulates the key characteristics, behaviors, and needs of our target audience. By leveraging our insights from in-depth interviews, observations, and open-ended surveys, we have crafted a comprehensive representation of our typical user. This user persona will serve as a guiding light throughout the development process, ensuring that our application resonates with the individuals it aims to serve.
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Key Insights
After meticulously gathering all insights from our comprehensive research efforts, my dedicated team and I collaborated closely to assemble a meticulously curated list of features that we collectively believe will precisely align with and address the diverse needs of our valued users.
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Next...Wireframing!
After meticulously analyzing the findings from our user research, we embarked on crafting wireframes that highlight crucial features derived from comprehensive surveys. This process enabled us to gain deeper insights into the needs and preferences of our users, facilitating a more user-centric approach to product development.
Lastly...Prototyping!
Due to the limited timeframe allocated for this project, my team and I swiftly shifted gears from wireframing to developing our high-fidelity prototypes. A design system of colors was established in order to maintain consistency throughout our application and establish our brand. Once these were finalized, I assumed the role of moderator during the usability testing phase. This allowed me to oversee our users' interaction with the mobile application, ensuring seamless navigation and gathering valuable feedback for further improvements.
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Takeaways
For my first experience into the design process, I embraced the challenge of acquiring and mastering a range of new technical skills. This journey not only broadened my skill set but also fostered a sense of empathy and open-mindedness as I navigated unfamiliar territory. As I delved into promoting the academic resources available at UT Dallas and aiming to revitalize the lacking social scene, I confronted situations where my initial ideas didn't quite align with reality. The app I developed sought to address the hurdle many UT Dallas students face in forging connections amidst the demanding academic environment, offering a platform for collaboration and community-building.