APPLICATION DESIGN 11-14 Project 3: Lo-Fi App Design Prototype

 WEEK11

Learn

In the 11th week, the teacher used Figma to guide us to optimize the Taobao page. We analyzed the existing page. Its layout was complex and information overload affected user search. We simplified the search path and highlighted key function entrances like putting common categories first according to the user's usage process. Based on MVP functions, we reduced redundant modules and retained the core shopping process. In Figma, we redesigned the layout and regularized the product display area and unified visual elements.

 Reflection

In this class during the process of Taobao page optimization, I had a deep reflection. When the teacher taught us to use Figma for design, I was impressed by how to find reference materials and patterns. I realized that I had been relying too much on common material libraries before. The teacher introduced many professional design websites, industry forums and data research platforms. I understood the importance of accurately finding materials and patterns for design. But I'm still not proficient enough in screening and integrating these resources, and can't quickly extract effective elements to integrate into the page. In the future, I need to broaden the ways of collecting resources and improve my ability to screen and integrate them to make the design more innovative and targeted.

WEEK12（The teacher was absent from class）

WEEK13

Learn

In the design course of the thirteenth week, we focused on the specific application of high-fidelity and low-fidelity design styles in interface design and how to optimize the design based on user feedback. Through the analysis of past design cases, we identified some problems such as unobvious buttons and inconvenient search functions. For example, the buttons of some applications are designed too small or the color contrast with the background is low, making it difficult for users to quickly locate and identify them; the position of the search box is not prominent enough, or the entrance to the search function is hidden too deeply, requiring users to click multiple times to access, which affects the convenience of searching.

To address these issues, we formulated corresponding optimization procedures. In terms of button design, we increased the button size and enhanced the contrast with the background to facilitate user operation. For the search function, we placed the search box in a prominent position on the interface, such as the top center or the upper right corner, and added clear search icons and hint texts to guide users to quickly find the search entrance. In addition, we also optimized the search algorithm to improve the accuracy and relevance of search results, enabling users to obtain the required information more efficiently.

 Reflection

This class made me deeply reflect on my deficiencies in interface design. I realized that in previous designs, I didn't consider the user experience comprehensively enough, such as neglecting the convenience of buttons and search functions. In the future, I will pay more attention to details, give priority to the user's perspective when designing, conduct more tests and optimizations, and improve my design skills to ensure that my design works are more practical and user-friendly.

WEEK14（self -Study ）

During the development process, three evaluators were invited to conduct practical operations on both the low-fidelity and high-fidelity versions of my Taobao app pages. They first interacted with the low-fidelity prototype and carried out three distinct processes.

For the process of purchasing a product, they navigated through the simulated interface to search for a specific item, in this case, the specialty dried persimmon cakes. They explored different search methods, such as using keywords in the search bar and browsing through relevant categories and subcategories. After locating the desired product, they added it to the cart, proceeded to the checkout page, and simulated the steps of applying discount coupons and entering shipping information. Their evaluation of this process focused on the intuitiveness of the search function, the clarity of product details display, and the ease of the checkout procedure. Some of the comments included the need for more prominent display of key product information like origin and production date, and a more streamlined coupon application process to avoid confusion.

In the task of viewing the express delivery information, they attempted to track a mock order. They located the "My Orders" section and clicked on the tracking option. They assessed the comprehensiveness and clarity of the tracking details provided, such as the real-time location of the package, estimated delivery time, and transit updates. The evaluators suggested enhancing the visual representation of the tracking progress, perhaps with a more interactive map or timeline display, to make it easier for users to understand the journey of their package.

Regarding the process of changing the language, nationality, and currency, they accessed the settings menu. They explored the dropdown menus and input fields for making these adjustments. Their feedback centered around the ease of finding these options within the interface and the clarity of instructions. Some noted that the language selection could be more prominent and accompanied by language previews to aid in the selection process. Additionally, the currency conversion process needed to be more transparent, with clearer explanations of how the exchange rates were determined and updated.

Based on their comprehensive evaluations and the areas they identified for improvement, I meticulously analyzed each comment and suggestion. I then proceeded to make targeted modifications and enhancements to the high-fidelity prototype. This involved redesigning certain interface elements to improve visibility and usability, adjusting the layout of forms and menus for a more intuitive user experience, and refining the functionality of various features to better meet the needs and expectations expressed by the evaluators. Through this iterative process, I aimed to create a more polished and user-friendly Taobao app experience that would enhance customer satisfaction and usability....

These are the screenshots and interviews of three interviewers