Competitive Analysis
I focused on competitors that emphasized user engagement, personalization, and visually appealing designs. For each app, I analyzed aspects such as navigation, functionality, user experience, and thematic elements, paying close attention to how they addressed emotional tracking and user retention. I also noted opportunities for differentiation, such as incorporating a space theme and AI-driven personalization, which set Stellar Moods apart.
Sketch
I began by identifying the core features and functionality that the app needed to deliver, such as a mood questionnaire, planetary destinations, and personalized missions. I sketched out the user flow to visualize how users would navigate through the app, ensuring a seamless and intuitive experience. Each screen was designed to align with the space theme, incorporating visual elements like planets and stars to enhance engagement. The sketch served as a blueprint, providing a clear framework for building out the app while leaving room for refinement and creativity during development.
Paper Prototype
Each screen was drawn to scale, with attention to layout, navigation elements, and the placement of interactive features. I used simple symbols and annotations to represent buttons, input fields, and transitions between screens. To simulate user interactions, I created elements to demonstrate how users would navigate through different parts of the app. This low-fidelity prototype allowed me to quickly test the app’s flow and usability, gathering user feedback and identifying areas for improvement before moving on to digital prototypes.
Usability Test
To conduct a usability test for Stellar Moods using the paper prototype, I began by identifying key tasks that users needed to complete, such as logging a mood, exploring their planetary destination, and completing their personalized mission. I provided participants with a brief overview of the app’s concept. During the test, I observed how users interacted with the paper prototype, prompting them to think aloud as they navigated the screens. I took note of any moments of hesitation, confusion, or difficulty, particularly around navigation and icon clarity. After the session, I gathered verbal feedback to better understand users’ perspectives on the app’s design and functionality.
Storyboard
I outlined a narrative that followed a user’s emotional journey, from feeling a certain mood to logging it in the app, exploring a planetary destination, and completing a personalized mission. Each step of the process was broken into key moments, such as interacting with the app's interface or reflecting on the completed mission. I sketched eight frames to visually represent these moments, using simple drawings to highlight the user's actions, emotions, and interactions with the app.
Video Prototype
The script outlined a typical user journey, from logging a mood to exploring a planetary destination and completing a personalized mission. I used the low-fidelity paper prototype to visually represent the app’s interface. Each step of the process was carefully choreographed to ensure the video clearly communicated the app's functionality and user experience. I added sound effects and a space-themed background score to enhance the mood and align with the app's theme. Once the visuals and audio were synced, I reviewed and refined the prototype to ensure it effectively conveyed the app’s concept.
High-Fidelity Prototype
I started by refining the previous prototypes based on insights from previous testing and feedback. I focused on incorporating the app’s space-themed design, selecting a vibrant color palette, sleek typography, and visually engaging elements like planetary illustrations and dynamic animations. I used Figma’s interactive components to simulate navigation, allowing users to click through key flows, such as logging a mood, exploring planetary destinations, and completing missions. Each screen was designed with attention to accessibility, ensuring contrast, legibility, and intuitive layouts. I also included micro-interactions, like hover effects and subtle transitions, to make the experience feel polished and immersive. Once the prototype was complete, I completed another usability test to ensure functionality and flow, refining details based on user feedback to create an engaging and user-friendly final product.