Application Design II Task 1 Self-Evaluation and Reflection

 23 September 2024- 21 October 2024

WANG ZILONG(0361141)

Application Design II| Bachelor of Design in Creative Media | Taylor's University

Task 1: Self-Evaluation & Reflection

Introduction

Design Moodboard for reference

Self-Assessment and Reflection on Mobile App Design: Carrier App

Introduction

In modern society, mobile apps have become an indispensable part of people's daily lives, especially carrier apps, which help users manage communication services, data usage, and bill payments. The goal of this project is to design a full-featured carrier app that improves overall aesthetics and functionality by analyzing user needs, interface design, and user experience. This paper will conduct a self-assessment and reflection on the problems, challenges, and solutions in the project, aiming to promote a deeper understanding of the iterative process of app design.

The previous figma link of the assignment:https://www.figma.com/design/Ejso3LK7a78fUp5rgimiDa/%E9%80%9A%E8%AE%AFapp%EF%BC%88%E9%AB%98%E4%BF%9D%E7%9C%9F%EF%BC%89?node-id=1-685&t=nTzNxfK1SeweVKXO-1

AI Feedback

Hypothetical page feedback

1. Login page

Advantages:

Simple and clear, users can quickly understand how to operate.

Provide multiple login methods (such as email, mobile phone number, social media) to increase convenience.

Suggestions for improvement:

If there is an error in login, add clear error message.

Provide a "forgot password" option to facilitate users to retrieve their accounts.

2. Registration page

Advantages:

The registration process is intuitive, with fewer fields, and users will not feel complicated.

Support password strength prompts to improve account security.

Suggestions for improvement:

Add a quick overview of the privacy terms to increase transparency.

Consider adding a "referral code" or social invitation function to attract more users.

3. Home page

Advantages:

The visual design is clear and the core functions are reasonably laid out.

A search bar is added so that users can quickly find what they want.

Suggestions for improvement:

Is the content of the home page updated dynamically? If not, a personalized recommendation function can be added.

Make sure there is enough space between each module to avoid visual fatigue.

4. Category page

Advantages:

Clear categories and simple navigation logic.

Consistent icon design improves user experience.

Improvement suggestions:

If there are many categories, consider adding a "search category" function.

Is the category hierarchy too deep? You can reduce the number of clicks and optimize the user path.

5. Profile page

Advantages:

The information is arranged logically and is convenient for users to view and edit.

The user's avatar and nickname are designed prominently to enhance the user's sense of personal belonging.

Improvement suggestions:

More customizable options can be provided (such as background, theme color).

Add a privacy setting button to help users manage data sharing.

6. Shopping cart page

Advantages:

The shopping cart list is intuitive and clearly displays the price and quantity of the goods.

Provide a total price calculation and checkout button to simplify the process.

Improvement suggestions:

Add "Recently Browsed" or "Guess You Like" modules to increase cross-selling opportunities.

If the shopping cart is empty, you can set guidance information or recommend products.

7. Payment page

Advantages:

There are many payment methods (such as credit cards, WeChat, Alipay, etc.), and users can choose flexibly.

Provide payment confirmation steps to reduce the risk of misoperation.

Improvement suggestions:

Ensure that the payment page complies with PCI security standards to protect user data.

Add a "save payment information" option to facilitate quick payment next time.

8. Help and support page

Advantages:

Provide FAQs and customer service contact information to facilitate users to solve problems quickly.

Support online chat function to enhance user satisfaction.

Improvement suggestions:

Add problem classification search to quickly locate user needs.

Provide real-time problem feedback system to improve user experience.

Project Goals and Preliminary Design

Goals

Our main goal is to design a user-friendly carrier app that allows users to easily manage their accounts, including viewing bills, monitoring data usage, and making service changes. We hope to increase user satisfaction and loyalty through an intuitive interface and simplified processes.

Preliminary Design

During the initial design phase, we conducted a series of user surveys to understand the needs and expectations of target users. Through questionnaires and user interviews, we found that users' main expectations for the app include:

1. Simple and clear interface: users want to be able to find the required functions quickly and avoid complex navigation.

2. Real-time data feedback: Users want to be able to view data usage in real time so that they can better manage their packages.

3. Security and privacy protection: Users have high requirements for security when entering personal information.

Challenges encountered

During the design and development of the application, we encountered some challenges, mainly in the following aspects:

1. Complexity of user interface design

During the initial design phase, we tried a variety of interface layouts and color schemes. However, feedback showed that some interfaces were too complex and users were confused when looking for specific functions. To solve this problem, we conducted several rounds of iterations and focused on simplifying the interface design.

2. Determination of function priorities

During the development process, we faced the challenge of determining function priorities. Although users expect the application to have multiple functions, in order to ensure a smooth user experience, we decided to focus on the most core functions, such as bill viewing and data monitoring. This decision helped us to use resources effectively within a limited time.

3. Difficulties in technical implementation

In the back-end development, we encountered problems with data synchronization, especially after the user data was updated, the application failed to reflect the changes in real time. After many tests and adjustments, we finally optimized the logic of data transmission and ensured the accuracy and timeliness of user data.

Solutions and Iteration Process

In response to the above challenges, we adopted a series of solutions to improve the user experience of the application.

1. Interface Simplification and Optimization

We collected feedback through user testing and finally simplified the interface design into three main modules: account management, data monitoring, and service changes. Each module adopts a card-style design, which allows users to easily browse and quickly find the required functions.

2. Function Iteration

In function development, we adopted an agile development approach, and each iteration cycle was improved around user feedback. We launched multiple small versions and gradually added new features, such as online customer service and package recommendation system. The launch of each new feature was user tested to ensure that it met user needs.

3. Data Synchronization Technology Optimization

We optimized the data synchronization algorithm and adopted a more efficient caching mechanism to ensure that data can be quickly updated and displayed when users use the application. In this way, we effectively reduced user waiting time and improved the overall experience.

User Feedback and Evaluation

During the testing phase of the application, we invited target users to participate in the test and collected a lot of feedback. Users generally believe that the interface is friendly and the functions are practical, especially the real-time data monitoring function is well received. At the same time, some users have proposed suggestions for improving the search function, believing that a smarter search algorithm can be added.

1. User satisfaction

After a series of user tests, our user satisfaction rate has reached more than 80%. Users said that they can manage their accounts more efficiently and save a lot of time.

2. Future improvement direction

Although we have achieved certain success in the current version, user feedback also points out the direction of improvement, such as enhancing the search function and adding personalized recommendations. These feedbacks will become the focus of our future iterations.

1. Loading and registration screen design: Setting the tone

Loading and registration screens are the first interaction between users and the app. These screens need to be not only visually appealing, but also clear in functionality.

Key elements:

Microinteractions: Subtle animations on loading screens (such as network signal waves or brand logos) provide feedback and reduce the user's sense of waiting.

Minimalism: Avoid overcrowding the registration page with information. Use placeholders, progress indicators, and clear CTAs (calls to action) to effectively guide users.

Accessibility: Design according to WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines), ensure that forms and buttons are screen reader-friendly and keyboard-friendly.

Design principle: Jacob's Law - users spend most of their time in other apps, so align with familiar design patterns to ensure intuitive navigation.

2. Onboarding screen design: Guide users to take the first step

A smooth onboarding process ensures that users quickly master the core functions of the app, such as recharge, billing, and service management.

Key elements:

Progressive disclosure: Introduce features step by step, such as how to view data usage or activate roaming services.

Interactive tutorials: Help users understand features through tooltips, overlays, or guided actions.

Gamification: Introduce progress trackers or reward mechanisms to motivate users to complete account setup tasks.

Design principle: Principle of least effort – Reduce user cognitive load by simplifying tasks and providing clear, concise instructions.

3. Home (dashboard) interface design: Stimulate exploration

The home dashboard is where users view dynamic content such as account balance, usage overview, and offers. It is necessary to find a balance between functionality and aesthetics.

Key elements:

Card design: Use card-style layouts to separate content such as data plans, bill records, and promotional offers.

Personalization: Use algorithms to display offers or usage tips related to user behavior.

Quick actions: Provide shortcuts to common functions such as recharge, bill payment, or contact customer service.

Design principle: Fitts's law – Make sure the touch target is large enough and place common functions where users can easily reach.

4. Sidebar interface design: Optimize navigation

The sidebar is usually the main navigation center of telecom applications, and its design is crucial to the user experience.

Key elements:

Collapsible menus: Allow users to expand or hide menus, keeping the interface simple.

Consistent icon design: Use easily recognizable icons with labels for clarity.

Fixed position: Ensure the sidebar is always visible as users scroll.

Design principle: Hick’s Law – Reduce decision fatigue by limiting the number of options presented at the same time.

5. Information flow interface design: Highlight content priority

For telecom applications, content presentation is crucial in displaying relevant offers, updates, and prompts.

Key elements:

Hierarchy: Emphasize key information, such as remaining balance or data usage, through font size, color, and spacing.

Loading indicator: Use skeleton screens to indicate content that is about to load, such as updated usage statistics.

Interaction prompts: Place buttons to explore offers, activate services, or upgrade packages in appropriate locations.

Design principle: Gestalt principle – Group related elements to create a coherent and beautiful layout.

6. Mall interface design: Promote conversion

Well-structured malls can enhance trust and simplify the process of purchasing additional services and packages.

Key Elements:

Search & Filter: Provide intuitive sorting and filtering options for data packages, roaming plans, or devices.

Trust Signals: Highlight user ratings, reviews, and secure payment icons.

Call to Action: Design purchase buttons with contrasting colors and engaging copy, such as “Buy Now” or “Upgrade Plan.”

Design Principles: Feedback Principle – Provide immediate responses to user actions (such as confirmation messages).

7. Community Interface Design: Build Connections

Community spaces in telecom apps encourage user interaction and enhance user loyalty through forums and support groups.

Key Elements:

Threaded Discussions: Use nested comments to organize discussions about troubleshooting or product recommendations.

User Avatars: Add a personalized experience with customizable profile pictures.

Activity Indicators: Show online status or activity timestamps to create a dynamic and connected atmosphere.

Design Principles: Social Proof Principle – Show popular discussions or trending topics to increase user engagement.

Reflection

Through the design and development of this operator application, I deeply understand the importance of the iterative process of mobile application design. Every user feedback and test is an opportunity to improve product quality and let us continue to learn and grow in actual operation.

In future designs, I will pay more attention to user experience, combine data analysis with user feedback, and promote the development of more innovative and practical applications. At the same time, maintain close communication with users to ensure that every improvement can truly meet their needs.

Through the completion of this project, I not only improved my design and development skills, but also gained a deep understanding of how to apply theoretical knowledge in practice and achieve continuous improvement and innovation. This will lay a solid foundation for my future study and work.