Dribbble's 16 week course UX/UI certification– final case study
Overview
Spot is a service provider app that allows users to quickly and easily find a nearby provider for their pet. The user can select from four service options: dog walking, drop-in visit, house sitting and boarding. Pet owners often have issues finding a trustworthy provider, or one that can accommodate their pet's special needs. Spot eliminates these pain points by requiring all providers to complete a background check and interview process, along with staffing providers that offer add-on services for pets with special needs.
Role & Responsibilities: All phases of the product design process including research, user flows–UX, wireframes–UI, visual design and prototyping.
Tools used: Figma
Understanding the User
User Research
I conducted research through an online survey using a questionnaire designed to gather information about pet owners' dog walking habits and experience with pet walkers and sitters. I interviewed five dog owners between the ages of 25-35. The main takeaways from the interviews were: people want a provider who is trustworthy, dependable, affordable and experienced. They want someone they can message prior to the service, to see if they're a good fit.
Market Research
I researched two popular pet service apps: Rover and Wag. In order to stand out in a competitive market, it's important to do research of the current market to compare what is working well and what could use improvement. Below I've noted what I thought were great features to include on my app, even if I didn't include all of them.
Persona
After conducting interviews, analyzing research results and market research, I created a user persona in which I could base my design decisions on.
User Flow
To accommodate the busy user, I wanted the steps to find a provider quick and easy. I also wanted to include an option to message and interview the provider prior to confirming the service.
Wireframes
The below wireframes show the initial structure of my app screens. Wireframing helps to get the flow and structure of the app screens laid out, without spending too much time on design. Laying the foundation before the visual design is determined.
Visual Design
Exploration
I explored three different visual directions, with two having a similar structure but different UI elements. I wanted to create a design that was unique, playful and colorful to compete with other competitors. Rover and Wag use green as their primary interface color, so I wanted to stand out by using multiple colors.
UI Library
This includes a toolkit of my selected colors, typography and components used throughout the app screens.
Prototype
Try it out! Click here to interact with my prototype.
Takeaways
Outcome/Results
As a trained graphic designer, my main focus is usually on visual design. Throughout the process of designing Spot, I learned the importance of conducting interviews, analyzing market research and developing strong user flows as it has a huge impact on how the visual design functions properly.
Impact
With this being my first UX/UI app creation, I hope to build upon what I've learned and continue to grow into an experienced digital product designer. My background in graphic design provides a strong foundation to help accelerate my path in the industry.
Thank you for taking the time to view my case study!
