Refactored AI Mobile App
Creating a tool to help empower Refactored learners with access to an extensive network of learners and experts while promoting a career of lifelong learning.
August 2020 - Present
Colaberry Inc.
My Role
Being the sole designer on this project, I led the design of Refactored Mobile App starting in August 2020, defining the product vision, design, and development strategy in collaboration with our stakeholders and development team leaders.
User Insights & Ideation
I collaborated with project managers and the tech lead to uncover insights and translate concepts into features that address user needs and behaviors.
Strategy & Vision
I drove the product design and development strategy and vision partnering with the tech lead to determine the feasibility of the build and ensure user and business goals were being met.
Planning & Scope Definition
I defined the product with project managers and the tech lead. Together we prioritized and negotiated features and tech stack for production.
Design Execution
Using Google’s Material Design Guidelines, I designed out the application to work for both Android and iOS. Created user flows and prototypes to help designate the flow and user journey for the development team.
Leadership
I took the lead on this project from ideation to deployment. Worked closely with the development team to provide constant feedback, direction, and quality assurance on the design and functionality of the build. Designed and presented UI to gain buy-in from project managers and stakeholders throughout the project lifecycle.
Creating a Mobile Network of Community, Collaboration, & Lifelong Learning
Problem #1
Colaberry operates a thriving Data Analytics & Data Science BootCamp, powered by an in-house developed learning management system (LMS) designed to automate content delivery, track progress, generate reports, and facilitate project management. However, the existing LMS is outdated and lacks mobile-friendly functionality. Consequently, students face challenges when seeking assistance or asking questions, as they are required to log in via a computer to connect with our network of alumni, students, and instructors. This limitation has proven to be particularly troublesome for alumni who are actively employed and require immediate support while on the job.
Problem #2
Colaberry relies on WhatsApp for group communication, where students and alumni can seek assistance on work-related issues and online assignments by addressing the entire alumni network. However, WhatsApp imposes limitations on the number of participants in a group chat, necessitating the creation of multiple group chats to accommodate the entire Colaberry community. This presents a challenge for those seeking help, as they must repost their queries in each group chat to ensure they reach the entire network.
The Solution
Develop a mobile-friendly and readily accessible tool designed to streamline communication and collaboration across the complete Colaberry network, encompassing students, alumni, instructors, and in-house Colaberry team members.
The Challenge
The Colaberry network is extensive, encompassing not only the educational institution but also extending to all of Colaberry's platforms. As a result, all chats and communication channels must synchronize and collaborate cohesively to deliver a seamless user experience.
Discovery
Understanding User Needs & Product Requirements
To effectively determine what needs to be developed, I conducted comprehensive user interviews with various segments of the Colaberry Network, which encompassed current students, alumni, instructors, mentors, and in-house management. These interviews provided invaluable insights into the required features and opportunities for enhancing the user experience in a new product.
Analyzing The Tools & Methods of Communication
The new construction required seamless integration with our existing communication systems, necessitating a similar structure and feature set to ensure successful data synchronization. However, this didn't imply that improvements couldn't be made to the current system. During my discovery phase, I conducted an in-depth analysis of all our existing communication and collaboration tools to assess their strengths and weaknesses. This evaluation guided decisions on what to retain, what to exclude, and how to enhance our existing strengths.
Colaberry App Chat (Single Chat)
This is Colaberry's proprietary chat system. The following screenshot illustrates the appearance of a live chat interface, with the expanded groups and friends list window located on the right-hand side of the screen.
Colaberry App Chat (Group Chat)
The Colaberry App Chat also incorporates group chat features. The group chat operates similarly to a forum or discussion board, offering capabilities such as upvoting, answer tracking, and real-time key performance indicators (KPIs) to monitor question activity. Additionally, users can initiate live Zoom chats for prompt brainstorming and collaborative problem-solving sessions.
WhatsApp (Mobile & Desktop)
WhatsApp serves as a platform for live group chat and internal marketing purposes. Students, alumni, and mentors are grouped together, making it convenient for individuals seeking on-the-job assistance to pose questions in the group chat, where they receive prompt responses from others within the network. WhatsApp also functions as the primary chat system within the Colaberry in-house environment.
Plan & Ideate
Sketching Stock Photo
Get The Ideas Flowing
Having gained a comprehensive understanding of the product, user requirements, business objectives, and product specifications, I initiated the planning and ideation phase to explore potential solutions. Collaborating closely with the Tech Lead and Project Managers, we engaged in discussions related to technology stacks, feature sets, and database synchronization. These conversations informed the development of a comprehensive strategy that encompassed all aspects, from initial ideation to deployment.
This process involved:
1. Brainstorming sessions with the Tech Lead and Project Managers.
2. Mapping out features.
3. Creating preliminary sketches.
4. Maintaining regular communication with stakeholders and leadership.
Design Strategy & Planning
We anticipated developing and launching the mobile app for both iOS and Android platforms. It was imperative to create a design that would seamlessly align with the respective platform guidelines and facilitate their successful launch on app stores. To achieve this, I opted to design the app adhering to Google's Material Design guidelines, ensuring that both the iOS and Android versions conformed to the necessary guidelines essential for a successful launch.
Initial Designs & Rapid Prototyping
I began the design process with high-fidelity mockups. After establishing the fundamental design elements, I proceeded to create interactive prototypes and conducted rapid testing.
This encompassed:
1. Crafting high-fidelity UI designs.
2. Prototyping using InVision.
3. Conducting testing activities.
