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Intro
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Project Overview
Neua is a self-initiated project of a website and an app designed to support neurodivergent individuals, particularly young women. It’s meant to help in creating a sustainable and stress-less lifestyle
Software
Scope of work
Problem Statement
Lack of tools that address the specific needs of neurodivergent people that constitute 15-20% of the population.
Project goal
Support and empowerment for neurodivergent individuals. Help in creating a sustainable and stress-less lifestyle.
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User Research
Introduction
Driven by the stories shared by my friends and a personal desire to create a versatile tool that could improve daily life of neurodivergent people, I chose to focus on UX Research, aiming to deeply understand the challenges and desires of my target audience. The feedback I received from the people I interviewed was overwhelmingly positive, with everyone showing great curiosity about the project and eagerly anticipating the first prototype.
Metodology
Research methods employed in this assignment include both quantitative and qualitative analysis. I conducted interviews, questionnaires and usability testing. I choose such methods to get a better understanding of the user’s needs and target the problem more precisely.
Participants Demographics
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For this UX research study, I recruited a group of neurodivergent people who identify as or were socialised as women. The study included a total of 18 participants. The participants' ages ranged from 24 to 32 years, with an average age of 28.
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Participants' education levels varied, with 6 participants holding bachelor's degrees, 8 participants with master's degrees, and 4 participants with a high school diploma. This diverse educational background ensures a range of digital literacy and expertise in interacting with technological interfaces.
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The participants represented a wide array of professions, including software developers, marketing professionals, designers, artists, and students. This diverse occupational distribution ensures that the study accounts for various industry-specific needs and use cases.
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Our participants came from different ethnic and cultural backgrounds, including European, Asian, American, Hispanic, and Middle Eastern, among others. This broad representation acknowledges the significance of cultural influences on user preferences and interactions with digital products.
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The participants were located in various regions across the Netherlands and Poland, with a mix of urban, suburban, and rural dwellers. This geographic diversity allows for insights into regional design considerations and accessibility needs.
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All participants were fluent in English, all being multilingual. English proficiency ensured a comprehensive understanding of the interfaces and study materials.
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Participants had varying degrees of digital experience, ranging from novice users to tech-savvy individuals. This range of digital proficiency provides insights into the usability of the product for both new and experienced users.
Data Visualization
Question I
What features are the most useful?
Conclusions
Most of the participants look for tracking tools and help in setting and sticking to priorities. They would prefer interactive features over informative articles or ways to connect with others.
Question II
What do you struggle with?
Conclusions
Most of the participants struggle with procrastination and controlling their screen time. Aspects such as negative self-image and lack of focus might be challenging as well.
User Stories
Selected Quotes
I
/ User Story /
Eve (26)
As a neurodivergent person that has recently been diagnosed I’m in the process of redesigning life on my own terms.
II
/ User Story /
Meg (29)
I’m missing balance and having a clear view on what is going on with myself instead of discovering it while going trough it.
III
/ User Story /
Kim (32)
I need one place where I can collect all my ideas, strategise and plan.
Key Findings
Participants mainly search for daily support, the possibility to track different aspects of their lives and customized strategies.
Employed Methods
Persona
Milou
I’m searching for reliable sources that can provide me with information about my condition. I need support in creating sustainable routines and reminders that can help me in staying on track.
Age: 31
Location: Amsterdam
Education: MS in Biology
Income: 36.000 €
Profession: Researcher
Device: Mobile, iOS
Browser: Chrome
Time to browse: 0.5-2 m.
Circumstances: free time
Creative, “busy bee” person. Interested in neuroscience and psychology. Up-to-date with the digital trends, likes to surround herself with beautiful items. After recovering from burnout she tries to look after her mental health and wellbeing. She has been recently diagnosed with ADHD and is looking for new, smart tools to manage her life in more sustainable manner. She is sceptical because previously the apps that she tested didn’t satisfy her.
Searched CTA: ADHD help / ADHD info / burnout prevention / organisation tips
User Journey
Neurodivergent User
Mental Health Professional
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Design System
Typography
Typeface
DM Sans
Regular / Bold
Colours
Main
Palette
Primary
Secondary
Grids
Type
Column
Desktop: 12 col
Mobile: 2 col
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User Interface
Design Process
Results and Achievements
I addressed a pressing topic and understood the main needs of the target audience. I conveyed User Research and Usability Testing. I developed design system, visual identity, UI and prototype of an app and website.
Prototype
The user was requested to test the app questionnaire. After the initial test round, I improved the size of the buttons and the spacing between the clickable elements.
Interaction Design
Playful and engaging interface is meant to catch and sustain user attention. Designed microinteractions intrigue and invite to further page exploration.
Application
Neua app can be used both in light and dark modes. It was designed to be more accessible and meet diverse users needs. It helps with tracking, organisation and setting priorities.
Key Takeaways
I broadened my design skillset and improved my User Research methods. It’s a complex assignment and I see a big room for possible improvement yet I’m eager to keep working on it. I’d like to continue developing the app and define its features more precisely.
malekalicja@gmail.com
© 2024 Alicja Malek