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StudySpots
UI / UX | User Research | User Testing | Prototyping | 2023 | 15 weeks
StudySpots is the app for finding your ideal study environment. It helps you discover spaces that suit your needs, whether you prefer quiet corners, vibrant settings, or anything in between. With a clean, intuitive interface, StuSpot makes it easy to explore options and create the perfect atmosphere for productive learning. Stay focused, stay comfortable, and make every study session count!
Project info
Product goal
To enhance productivity and study experiences by helping users discover environments that align with their preferences and needs. The goal is to make studying more enjoyable, effective, and accessible for everyone.
Business goal
Organizations such as coworking spaces, libraries, and cafés can benefit by showcasing their study-friendly environments to attract visitors, and enhancing their visibility within the community.
Problem
How might we help students to find ideal study locations?
Process
The process started with research to define the problem, user goals, and challenges. User personas and scenarios were created, followed by testing and iterations to make the final design.
Solution
What if we can provide students with a system where they can locate ideal study places using their own preferences?
Prototype
Press the phone to check out the prototype.
Prototype
Press the phone to check out the prototype.
Perfecting the way you find your ideal study spot
Finding a good place to study can be hard and take a lot of time. StuSpot makes it easier by helping you find study spots that match your needs. My goal for the app was to create a simple design that makes it easy for everyone to find the right place to focus. Let’s hear what some students think about their study habits and preferences.
2023
Lead Designer
“I don’t want to study at home, but I never know where to go.”
03/15/23, Johan Larsson,
Engineering Student, UCSF San Francisco
image: Pexels
“I don’t want to study at home, but I never know where to go.”
03/15/23, Johan Larsson,
Engineering Student, UCSF San Francisco
image: Pexels
“I don’t want to study at home, but I never know where to go.”
03/15/23, Johanna Leth,
Engineering Student, UCSF San Francisco
image: Viktoria Leth
“I think it is hard to find a place to study out of home that fills up my expectations, such as silence and space. Also, I don’t have time to research, so I just end up staying at home.”
03/15/23, Maria Ben,
Human Resources Student, Madrid University
image: Pexels
“I think it is hard to find a place to study out of home that fills up my expectations, such as silence and space. Also, I don’t have time to research, so I just end up staying at home.”
03/15/23, Maria Ben,
Human Resources Student, Madrid University
image: Pexels
Defining the user
Urban and tech-savvy students aged 18-30, primarily undergraduates and graduates, seek cost-effective and efficient study solutions. They value convenience, utilize digital tools for information and networking, and are keen on innovative approaches to meet their social and study needs.
Resource Article: Why students are struggling to find study spots
2023
Lead Designer
Johan - The Quiet Achiever
"I need a comfortable and quiet place where I can focus on my studies”
Preferences
Prefers very quiet, private spots that feels like being home, even though it’s not.
Goals
Wants to find a place that is comfortable, quiet, easily accessible and allows her to concentrate on her studies.
Frustrations
Struggles in finding places out of home that are not too noisy, and at the same time has comfortable seating. It should feel like home.
Research
Key Areas to understand
Why do students need to find study locations?
What are students' preferences for study locations?
What are some current tools students are using to find study locations?
What are the main problems students are facing today when studying or finding a study location?
Why do young people want to save money?
Where does most of a young adult's money go?
What are some current tools young adults are using to manage their money?
What are the main problems young adults are facing today that prevent them from managing their money?
Why do young people want to save money?
Where does most of a young adult's money go?
What are some current tools young adults are using to manage their money?
What are the main problems young adults are facing today that prevent them from managing their money?
Where do they want to study?
According to a survey conducted by Steelcase Education, 85% of college students prefer to study in groups rather than alone.
According to a survey conducted by Barnes & Noble College, 58% of college students prefer to study in coffee shops or cafes.
A study by the University of Toronto found that green spaces (e.g. parks) can help improve mental health and reduce stress levels, which can be important for students who are under a lot of academic pressure.
The American Society of Interior Designers reports that students who study in spaces with good chairs and workstations experience less discomfort and are able to study for longer periods of time.
User interview documentation
Study Environment
Can you describe your ideal study environment?
Is the opportunity to meet and study with others important to you in a study space, and if so, how?
Searching for a place
What are the biggest challenges you face when looking for a new place to study?
How do you currently find study spaces?
What changes or improvements would you like to see in the way you find study spots in the future?
The App
What features would you value most in an app designed to help you find study spaces?
Do you have any suggestions on what I should include in the app?
Affinity map
Affinity map
Practices They Do
Ask friends for suggestions.
Stay in school.
Google cafes etc.
Check social media for student groups.
Go to libraries.
Walk around in the city and look for places.
Pain Points
Difficulty finding places matching my preferences.
Many spots are too far away.
Inconsistent Wi-Fi.
Many spots can be too crowded.
Noisy environments making concentration hard.
No power outlets.
User Needs
Find close-by study spots.
Have powerful wifi.
Have power outlets.
Being able to connect with others.
View current and accurate reviews.
Detailed info on study spot amenities.
Suggestions
See a map pointing out places.
Include a filter for the search function.
A chat function where you can connect.
Be able to rate places.
Provide detailed descriptions and photos.
Being able to save favorite places.
The Problem
As a user, I want to stay on the same platform when searching for study spots and plan my study sessions from there.
As a user, I lack the time or motivation to search for suitable study locations.
As a user, I want to know more about a study spot, like its atmosphere and features, before deciding to go there.
As a user, I want to stay on the same platform when searching for study spots and plan my study sessions from there.
As a user, I lack the time or motivation to search for suitable study locations.
As a user, I want to know more about a study spot, like its atmosphere and features, before deciding to go there.
The Problem
Learnings based on research
Based on the research and discovers, these points were kept in mind when moving on to designing the product.
Study conducted: Spring 2023, 38 participants
2023
Lead Designer
Personalized Search and Filtering
Students have varied preferences for their ideal study environments, highlighting the importance of personalized search options. Including filters for factors like noise levels, available amenities, and location proximity will help users find the perfect study spot more efficiently.
Social Connection Opportunities
Some students prefer studying with others, so the app should include features that help people connect. Adding a chat function, letting users see who else is studying at a spot, or creating group study opportunities will make the app more social.
Comprehensive Information and Reviews
Detailed information about study spots, including photos, descriptions, and user reviews, is important to students. Implementing features that allow users to share their experiences and rate study spots will provide valuable insights for other users.
Wireframes
With all the information I had gathered, it was time to start designing. I began with the key pages, like the home page and the map. While designing, I considered the different situations users might be in—whether they’re stressed, on the bus, with their kids, or relaxing at home.
Medium fidelity wireframes
Usability testing
Before adding style to the design, I conducted a paper prototype testing to get early feedback from users.
“The screen feels unorganized and it is hard to know which spot is which”
03/16-23, Johanna Leth,
Biochemistry student, University of Lund
Logo
The logo represents what my brand is all about - simplicity and balance.
Typography
The typography represents what my brand is all about - simplicity and easy to understand.
Sofia Bold
Sofia Medium
Sofia Regular
Sofia Light
Aa Bb Cc Dd Ee Ff Gg Hh Ii Jj Kk Ll Mm Nn Oo Pp Qq Rr Ss Tt Uu Vv Ww Xx Yy Zz
1234567890-=!@#$%^&*()_+
Color Palette
The colors represents what my brand is all about - simplicity and ease.
Icons
The icons represents what my brand is all about - simplicity and easy to understand.
Component Library
Let's look at the different components of the brand!
2023
Lead Designer
Logo
The logo represents what my brand is all about - simplicity and balance.
Typography
The typography represents what my brand is all about - simplicity and easy to understand.
Sofia Bold
Sofia Medium
Sofia Regular
Sofia Light
Aa Bb Cc Dd Ee Ff Gg Hh Ii Jj Kk Ll Mm Nn Oo Pp Qq Rr Ss Tt Uu Vv Ww Xx Yy Zz
1234567890-=!@#$%^&*()_+
Color Palette
The colors represents what my brand is all about - simplicity and ease.
Icons
The icons represents what my brand is all about - simplicity and easy to understand.
Component Library
Let's look at the different components of the brand!
2023
Lead Designer
Logo
The logo represents what my brand is all about - simplicity and balance.
Typography
The typography represents what my brand is all about - simplicity and easy to understand.
Sofia Bold
Sofia Medium
Sofia Regular
Sofia Light
Aa Bb Cc Dd Ee Ff Gg Hh Ii Jj Kk Ll Mm Nn Oo Pp Qq Rr Ss Tt Uu Vv Ww Xx Yy Zz
1234567890-=!@#$%^&*()_+
Color Palette
The colors represents what my brand is all about - simplicity and ease.
Icons
The icons represents what my brand is all about - simplicity and easy to understand.
Final Design
Takeaways
When developing the Study Spot Finder app, I realized that simplicity and efficiency was key. A straightforward and clear design ensures that users can navigate the app smoothly. Clear visuals are crucial as they allow students to quickly identify ideal study locations, saving valuable time. By offering real-time information on study spots, including for example user ratings, the app helps students to find the perfect place to study with minimal effort. Also, I learned that a map showing different places is very helpful, because that helps get a bigger picture of the places offered.
2023
Lead Designer
Next project
EduGuide - AI assisted education guidance.
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StudySpots
UI / UX | User Research | User Testing | Prototyping | 2023 | 15 weeks
StuSpot is the app for finding your ideal study environment. It helps you discover spaces that suit your needs, whether you prefer quiet corners, vibrant settings, or anything in between. With a clean, intuitive interface, StuSpot makes it easy to explore options and create the perfect atmosphere for productive learning. Stay focused, stay comfortable, and make every study session count!
Project info
Product goal
To enhance productivity and study experiences by helping users discover environments that align with their preferences and needs. The goal is to make studying more enjoyable, effective, and accessible for everyone.
Business goal
Organizations such as coworking spaces, libraries, and cafés can benefit by showcasing their study-friendly environments to attract visitors, and enhancing their visibility within the community.
Problem
How might we help students to find ideal study locations?
Process
The process started with research to define the problem, user goals, and challenges. User personas and scenarios were created, followed by testing and iterations to make the final design.
Solution
What if we can provide students with a system where they can locate ideal study places using their own preferences?
Perfecting the way you find your ideal study spot
Finding a good place to study can be hard and take a lot of time. StuSpot makes it easier by helping you find study spots that match your needs. My goal for the app was to create a simple design that makes it easy for everyone to find the right place to focus. Let’s hear what some students think about their study habits and preferences.
2023
Lead Designer
Defining the user
Urban and tech-savvy students aged 18-30, primarily undergraduates and graduates, seek cost-effective and efficient study solutions. They value convenience, utilize digital tools for information and networking, and are keen on innovative approaches to meet their social and study needs.
Resource Article: Why students are struggling to find study spots
2023
Lead Designer
Learnings based on research
Based on the research and discovers, these points were kept in mind when moving on to designing the product.
Study conducted: Spring 2023, 38 participants
2023
Lead Designer
Where do they want to study?
Johan
The Quiet Achiever
Image
"I need a comfortable and quiet place where I can focus on my studies”
Demographics
Name Johan
Age 28
Occupation Student
Status Single
Location New York
Salary 20k
Preferences
Prefers very quiet, private spots that feels like being home, even though it’s not.
Goals
Wants to find a place that is comfortable, quiet, easily accessible and allows her to concentrate on her studies.
Frustrations
Struggles in finding places out of home that are not too noisy, and at the same time has comfortable seating. It should feel like home.
Component Library
Logo
The logo represents what my brand is all about - simplicity and balance.
Typography
The typography represents what my brand is all about - simplicity and easy to understand.
Sofia Bold
Sofia Medium
Sofia Regular
Sofia Light
Aa Bb Cc Dd Ee Ff Gg Hh Ii Jj Kk Ll Mm Nn Oo Pp Qq Rr Ss Tt Uu Vv Ww Xx Yy Zz
1234567890-=!@#$%^&*()_+
Color Palette
The colors represents what my brand is all about - simplicity and ease.
Icons
The icons represents what my brand is all about - simplicity and easy to understand.
According to a survey conducted by Steelcase Education, 85% of college students prefer to study in groups rather than alone.
According to a survey conducted by Barnes & Noble College, 58% of college students prefer to study in coffee shops or cafes.
A study by the University of Toronto found that green spaces (e.g. parks) can help improve mental health and reduce stress levels, which can be important for students who are under a lot of academic pressure.
According to a survey conducted by Steelcase Education, 85% of college students prefer to study in groups rather than alone.
Research
Key Areas to understand
Why do young people want to save money?
Where does most of a young adult's money go?
What are some current tools young adults are using to manage their money?
What are the main problems young adults are facing today that prevent them from managing their money?
Practices They Do
Ask friends for suggestions.
Stay in school.
Google cafes etc.
Check social media for student groups.
Go to libraries.
Walk around in the city and look for places.
Pain Points
Difficulty finding places matching my preferences.
Many spots are too far away.
Inconsistent Wi-Fi.
Many spots can be too crowded.
Noisy environments making concentration hard.
No power outlets.
User Needs
Find close-by study spots.
Have powerful wifi.
Have power outlets.
Being able to connect with others.
View current and accurate reviews.
Detailed info on study spot amenities.
Suggestions
See a map pointing out places.
Include a filter for the search function.
A chat function where you can connect.
Be able to rate places.
Provide detailed descriptions and photos.
Being able to save favorite places.
Personalized Search and Filtering
Students have varied preferences for their ideal study environments, highlighting the importance of personalized search options. Including filters for factors like noise levels, available amenities, and location proximity will help users find the perfect study spot more efficiently.
Social Connection Opportunities
Some students prefer studying with others, so the app should include features that help people connect. Adding a chat function, letting users see who else is studying at a spot, or creating group study opportunities will make the app more social.
Comprehensive Information and Reviews
Detailed information about study spots, including photos, descriptions, and user reviews, is important to students. Implementing features that allow users to share their experiences and rate study spots will provide valuable insights for other users.
Wireframes and components
With all the information I had gathered, it was time to start designing. I began with the key pages, like the search and booking pages. While designing, I considered the different situations users might be in—whether they’re stressed, on the bus, with their kids, or relaxing at home.
Medium fidelity wireframes
Usability testing
Before adding style to the design, I conducted a paper prototype testing to get early feedback from users.
Usability testing
Before adding style to the design, I conducted a paper prototype testing to get early feedback from users.
“The screen feels unorganized and it is hard to know which spot is which”
03/16-23, Johanna Leth,
Biochemistry student, University of Lund
Final Design
Takeaways
When developing the Study Spot Finder app, I realized that simplicity and efficiency was key. A straightforward and clear design ensures that users can navigate the app smoothly. Clear visuals are crucial as they allow students to quickly identify ideal study locations, saving valuable time. By offering real-time information on study spots, including for example user ratings, the app helps students to find the perfect place to study with minimal effort. Also, I learned that a map showing different places is very helpful, because that helps get a bigger picture of the places offered.
2023
Lead Designer