Micro frames

Combining both the user flow and wireframe into one saved time and made things more efficient. Not only did it make the process go smoother, but prototyping was also built-in. Since I conducted two rounds of usability testing it was easier to have participants test the structure of the content. Removing the visuals led users to focus only on the information that would guide them toward completing the task.

User flow

Micro frames are great but adding a user flow visual makes it clear-cut to quickly identify the goal that needs to be accomplished.

Ideate & prototype

After the best and optimal layout was constructed it was time to put the heart and soul into the design. Inspiration from Dribble and similar peer-to-peer websites brought together the final UI Design. I designed five screens and selected the option that allowed text, color, imagery, and CTAs to be easily distinguished and recognized.

I originally wanted to go with a light theme because I wanted to create a clean yet exciting interface. The plan was to not overwhelm the users with too much color(s). The booking experience can be overwhelming and anxious as this is a process that is not done in a matter of minutes. The selected dark theme works well because the yellow which was not too saturated evoked happiness and demanded attention. While the dark, navy-like color background made the text and colors stand out I chose to go with the light theme. It was more more appropriate and suited for a travel booking app. Competing apps also had a light theme and considering light theme presents a better visual performance.

Choosing a date

During the research phase, a major need that kept arising was the need to quickly and easily change the dates of the trip. When going back and forth with fellow travel companions the date is never fixed. Users have to work out their schedules and accommodate one another. The date CTA is always fixed when users are scrolling through content for the purpose of visibility. The date picker interface design shows the vacation dates selected. Users can also clear the date range rather than going through a series of finger taps.

Logic and practicality behind the design

Prompts users to sync their mobile app with the Stress App found in the app store. Once the two applications have been synced the mobile app paired with a smartwatch will be able to detect stress levels. Users will be alerted after a week of data collection. Now the habit can be tracked and disrupted.

Prototyping & testing

I chose to conduct two rounds of usability testing to gain more clarity on issues within the interface. With a solid foundation, improvements can be made quickly. Participants involved in the testing helped pinpoint which elements/variants worked best so I could make necessary changes. The first round of testing was performed using the micro frames. This focused on testing any flaws and holes in the logic.

The second round of testing was done with the final product. I was unable to use my preferred precise analytical tool, Maze which collected actionable insights to create a better user experience. One change made after tuning in on what content should be visible was extending the length of the page. Users felt as though they had more control and options so they took advantage and explored more.

Insights and Issues

1. The absence of the Maze tool meant I had to discover how users interacted with the interface visually. Lacking experience in usability testing may have hindered the revision process

2. Testing on my own mobile device meant that I had to take notes and in that case, I missed many subtle details

3. A share and download option on the confirmation page was added so users could share trip details with those they were traveling with

4. The globe located in the header was confusing, users continued to ask what was its purpose

Affinity map

Project reflection

What’s next

The first step would be to add more content and features so users can test the closest thing to a finished product. Introducing the romance feature as another user flow within the design will broaden the overall design and its capabilities. For this, another round of interviews and testing will be needed to see if this feature is as highly requested as I assume. I will also scour competing brands' app reviews and online forums to find highly requested features.

1. Polish more on the UI Design and enhance the prototyping interaction

2. Visit with a developer and discuss handoff requirements

Project takeaways

Finding participants who had not only traveled but used a peer-to-peer marketplace site rather than a hotel was a challenge. I had to widen my criteria. Participants had excellent responses but reflecting on their experience if it were more recent would have provided more clarity.

• Organization and documentation are crucial aspects of the UX process. It makes sense that note-taking and tracking ideas and concepts should be a major consideration. One problem I kept running into was having to recall a specific thought which would lead to an improved direction and outcome for this project. Going forward in Notion I will have to take note of important outcomes and ideas that come to mind.

• Research needs to improve and with that, a stronger project foundation will be built. The plan is to reach out to a UX Researcher to pick their brain or at the very watch more interviews. I kept having to replay the audio and make sense of participants' responses rather than gaining more clarity in the moment of the interview.