CRYSTAL COLLECT
UI/UX DESIGN
The Project
Crystal Collect is an informational mobile application that I created as part of my Visual Communication Design 5D class at Cal Poly Pomona. As the sole UX designer, I designed this project from conception to final design through research, ideation and UX design principles.
Duration: 16 weeks
Year: Fall 2021
Methods: Surveys, Research, Personas, Wireframes, Prototyping
Tools: Adobe XD, Illustrator, Photoshop
Context
Keeping track of your crystal collection can be a hassle when you're starting out. It can be stressful trying to remember the name, information, and the properties of a crystal.
I was tasked with providing an informational mobile application that will allow crystal enjoyers to track and manage their own collection. As well creating a small social platform to help a community connect, where they’ll be able to participate in forums to provide their own insights.
The Process
Research Define Ideate Prototype Iterate
Research
Competitor Analysis
To better understand the competitor field, I conducted analyses on eight different resources that present an abundance of information about a variety of crystals. I found that while the information provided was suitable they all lacked a simple way of saving information for later use. The UX design presented was outdated which made the user experience frustrating. This could prove overwhelming for users who are not well-versed in old UX design.
Surveys & Interviews
I surveyed an array of people who were buying crystals and asked what they would like to see in a crystal app. I found that most said they want the ability to archive information as well as organize them in an album. Others were more interested in the idea of connecting with a community that shared the same niche interest.
Key Findings & Insights
The surveys helped me understand that users want to prioritize an organizational album, where all the customization is up to them, they want to indulge in articles and participate in insight forums.
The goal is to provide a functional app that can provide a satisfying experience to the user.
Define
Problem Statement
Crystal collectors and enjoyers don’t have a designated place to track and learn about the varieties of crystals and minerals this earth provides.
User Personas
With my key findings in mind 4 user personas were created with their different frustrations and needs. I often went back to review the user issues to maintain a user-centric focus for the duration of the project.
Core Features
Allows the user to “explore” the multitudes of crystals based on their preferences.
Easily allocate and organize the crystals into albums for faster access and safe keeping.
Obtain articles pertaining to crystal uses and its properties.
Connect with a community by communicating with posts on the forums.
Users can personalize their profile to display to the public or privately.
Sitemap
With these core features in mind, I conceptualized a flow map to understand how the users will expect the app to be organized.
Ideate
Low Fidelity Wireframe
I started with building the wireframes in Adobe Illustrator. I focused on conducting easy to use screens that highlighted the core features and met the users needs.
Next, I created a mid-fidelity version of this wireframe in Adobe XD, created a clickable prototype, and found some collectors to test the usability of the app.
Test
Usability Testing
I asked a variety of people who knew crystals as well those who didn’t to ensure the app is usable to any type of user. From there I redesigned what users were struggling with and refined features they enjoyed.
Key Findings
I made notes of their feedback, so I understood which features to eliminate and which features to expand on.
Iterate
Design Changes
With the changes made from the feedback I received, I created a high-fidelity version of the app that featured organization, better flow, and clearer text.
I made use of Gestalt's Principles, color theory, and grids to ensure consistency within the entire app.
Final Product
After countless trials and iterations, my final product met all the objectives I’ve set. It became visually appealing as well as simple to use. It contained the 5 core features necessary to find crystal information quickly and easily.
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