SmallTalk:
Hackathon App
This was a project working with back and front end developers building for the Lincoln Initiative project. Learning to master the dialogue and negotiations between designers and developers is essential in UX, and I am proud to say, it is a well toned skill I possess.
The Problem
We are seeking a solution to alleviate the difficulty involved with getting refugees through social barriers. Our goal is to help refugees gain an understanding of their new culture, local languages and resources. We strive to create a way to connect displaced teens with peers from the country they are moving to by using a platform about non-formal education
Turning Research Into Solutions
Brain storming page on how we expected the users to move through the app and served as the foundation piece for how we would proceed through building the application.
The app flow after 3 rounds of user testing.
Wireframe and User Flows for Layout
Agile Development
As an IA, working closely with developers in the beginning and throughout a project allow for amazing user experiences in terms of delivering the right content at the perfect time.
We worked to identify what the taxonomy would be before moving into design, to increase the speed in which id tags could be established in the database. Which allowed our developers to begin their process while I was moving into prototyping,
The Solution
Swipe-based app to match locals as mentors + English-learning activities built in from user generated content in the community. Both put in a time that is convenient for them, and Small Talk will have established places for people to meet up. Can save progress online so they can meet up with other matches.
Refugees really struggle to find a medium to connect with locals with, but 87% of Syrian refugees have smartphones. We emphasize:
User comfort and convenience.
Opportunity for community service.
Serves dual purpose of connection + learning English.
Female refugees can put their settings to only women.
You Have to Present
Even good design will not sell itself. As a UX designer, I am proud to:
Present my design
Assist in bringing the concepts into reality
Sharing my visions and,
Offering solutions to all who are involved, or would like to be.
““If I had six hours to chop down a tree, I’d spend the first four sharpening my axe”
- Abraham Lincoln”