Amin Parvin
9 min read
BOTIM is a messaging app that allows users to send messages and make voice or video calls to an individual or group. Users can also publicly share their status and location with other users.
This redesign aims to make it easier for older people to communicate with their relatives through the app.
Regarding messaging apps, older people, particularly those who may struggle with language skills and technological knowledge, face numerous challenges in staying connected. This redesign specifically aims to address these issues and make communication more accessible for this user group.
My design process is only one of the frameworks UX designers use to organize their design approach. My core principle in this process was to focus on the user and create solutions that address user problems. Overall, the design process is about creating a solution that meets user needs while considering user and business goals.
Empathizing is the first step in the design process. My solution needs to be based on understanding who I am solving for and their needs. I empathize with users by choosing a research method, conducting it, creating empathy maps, personas, and user journey maps, and reviewing competitors.
Thirdly, I created an affinity diagram based on the findings and prioritized them according to the project goal. Next, I proceeded to the second phase and developed empathy maps, personas, and user journey maps.
Persona
Sara is a retired woman who needs a simple and easy-to-use app because she wants to check on her kids frequently.
To understand Botim's app's competitive landscape, I compiled an in-depth analysis of its rivals in the thriving E-Commerce industry. First, I identified the top seven competitors in the market and categorized them as direct and indirect competitors. Then, I defined the audit goals and determined their locations, products, prices, business sizes, target users, value propositions, and UI designs.
By overviewing the Botim App's top competitors' strengths and weaknesses, the audit revealed the following key findings, which have significant strategic implications for Botim:
All seven apps support multiple languages.
All seven apps offered end-to-end encryption for all messages.
In all seven apps, you can send video, text, and voice messages.
Six of the seven apps have a group chat feature.
Four out of the seven apps support 100 Mb file sharing.
There are four apps that have business mode functionality.
Three of the seven apps provide multiple account support.
It is time to move to the ideation stage. At this stage, I used the "How might we" technique, one of the most common ways to approach ideation. It works as a design thinking activity for transforming problems into design opportunities. The main findings of the "HMW" technique are as follows:
Usability Study
Before adding any colors, fonts, or visual elements to the interface design, I thoroughly tested the wireframes with a group of users. As a designer, I am interested in creating designs that work for a variety of users. The feedback I received from user testing was invaluable in helping me refine the interface design before adding visual elements, resulting in a better overall experience for users.
1
General Information
Unmoderated usability study.
No compensation.
Participants must be:
Have at least one close relative abroad.
Live in London.
Know how to use mobile applications in general.
Aged more than 50.
2
Research Questions
Can you tell me if there's anything you don't understand?
Was the app navigation simple or challenging for you?
Can you tell me about anything you find particularly positive or negative?
Is there anything you would change about this process?
Do you have any suggestions for improving the app?
3
The System Usability Scale
Participants select one of five responses that range from “strongly disagree” to “strongly agree.”
The app seems unnecessarily complex to me.
This is an app I would likely use a lot.
I need technical support to use this app.
Navigating the app is easy for me.
The app has inconsistencies.
This app should be easy to use for most people.
This app makes me feel confident.
User flow is clearly defined.
Based on my usability test, I have identified the following significant findings:
The study found that 5 out of 7 participants had not had trouble finding their path.
Making voice calls was a breeze for the majority, 6 out of 7 participants, demonstrating the app's seamless functionality.
According to the findings, 3 out of 7 participants needed help with the message section.
The study revealed that 2 out of 7 participants needed help chatting with the group.
The results show that 4 out of 7 participants had normal experiences and will continue to use the app regularly.
Color and Typography
