User Research

Research Methodology

Phase 1: Online Survey via Surveymonkey
Phase 2: A design workshop facilitated by the lead UXR to the rest of the product team
Phase 3: Unmoderated usertesting with a Figma Prototype

Sample Size

Survey
n = 100
Usability test
n = 10 (4 male, 6 female)
Tools
Figma / Coda

Rationalize

A survey was chosen to quickly get quantitative information to use. The team could then quickly synthesize this data within the design workshop. To validate this, unmoderated usability testing would help the team move quickest and align with business timelines

User Demographics

Mixed gender
18 - 34 years
Timeline
6 months
Canada
All have utilizied a chatbot in the last 3 weeks via an online shopping app (options given to them mapped to our top 10 competitors)

Success Criteria

Success for this project was defined by the following metrics:

  • Increased user satisfaction and engagement with the app’s features.

  • Improved efficiency in managing group assignments, as measured by reduced time spent on coordination.

  • Positive feedback on the app’s usability and effectiveness during testing sessions.

Chosen Methodology

To achieve the research goals, I chose a mixed-methods approach, combining qualitative user interviews with quantitative usability testing. This combination allowed for a deep understanding of user needs and behaviors, as well as measurable feedback on the app’s functionality and design. The choice of this methodology was informed by the need to gather both rich, descriptive data and actionable insights for design improvements.

The Recruitment Criteria and Process

Participants were selected based on their experience with group assignments in academic settings. The sample included students from various disciplines and academic levels to ensure diverse perspectives. A total of four participants were recruited: two students from Seneca College, one from Toronto Metropolitan University, and one working professional who had recently completed their studies. Recruitment was done through a mix of personal networks and academic forums, ensuring a relevant and engaged sample.

Sample Questions Asked or Usability Tasks

Participants were asked to complete three key tasks within the app: tracking individual progress, creating a new assignment and allocating tasks, and sending a report to a professor. Sample questions included:

  • "How do you usually keep track of your group assignments?"

  • "What challenges do you face when coordinating tasks with your team?"

  • "How intuitive is the process of assigning tasks within the app?"

Analysis and Synthesis Process

Data from the usability tests were analyzed using thematic analysis to identify common patterns and insights. I conducted affinity mapping sessions with the design team to group similar feedback and uncover key themes related to navigation, task allocation, and progress tracking. This process involved iterative discussions and debriefs after each session, ensuring a thorough understanding of user behaviors and pain points.

Outputs & Deliverables

The primary deliverable was a detailed report highlighting the key insights and recommendations for design improvements. This report included wireframes and mockups of proposed changes, such as relocating essential navigation elements and enhancing task allocation flows. The deliverables were chosen to clearly communicate the research findings and provide actionable steps for the design and development teams.

Sharing and Activation

Research findings were shared in a presentation to the broader project team, followed by a collaborative workshop to prioritize design changes based on user feedback. The insights were also documented in a shared repository for future reference and to guide ongoing iterations. This approach ensured that the research was not only heard but also acted upon, driving meaningful changes in the app’s design.

Sharing and Activation

The research led to significant improvements in the DreamTeam app, particularly in its navigation and task management features. The changes directly addressed user pain points, resulting in higher satisfaction and usability scores in subsequent testing rounds. The project also contributed to a more user-centered design culture within the team, emphasizing the importance of ongoing user feedback.

Next Steps/Recommendations

The next steps include further usability testing to validate the effectiveness of the implemented changes and exploring additional features based on user suggestions, such as enhanced communication tools within the app. Continuous iteration and user feedback will remain central to the app’s development to ensure it meets the evolving needs of students.

Your Reflections and Learnings

Reflecting on the project, I learned the importance of early and continuous user involvement in the design process. One key takeaway was the value of iterative testing, which allowed for rapid refinement of the app’s features based on real user feedback. I also gained insights into the challenges of balancing user needs with technical constraints, a crucial aspect of delivering a functional and user-friendly product. Overall, the project reinforced my belief in the power of user-centered design to create impactful and meaningful solutions.