UX Project:
Redesign of the AppStateConnect App
Overview
Role: UX Designer and Researcher
Platform: iPhone 12 Mini
Background
This is a personal project that I decided to do for my portfolio. I choose to redesign the AppStateConnect app because I am an App State Alumni and the app is very difficult to use. The app is meant to be a way to find and connect with other App State Alumni but it lacks an easy way to do this. Users cannot even create an account on the app, they must go online to do it.
Current Application
I asked around to find what other App State Alumni thought of this app and what they would like it to do. But most did not know that the app existed and used the App State Alumni website instead. I was able to come up with a relatively small list of user wants and functions but a larger list of issues. The majority of user wants were centered around contacting other alumni and signing up to local groups.
The main issues that I found were a lack of actual app pages, a lack of filters when searching, and a lack of a home button. I decided the important features to focus on were the ability to create an account on the app, to connect with other Alumni, be able to sign up for events, and to be able to find Alumni deals and businesses.
Before I started any design work, I mapped the flow of the current application. While the majority of the flow works just fine, their are some issues. The main one being that before a user logs on it appears that they can access a few pages but it just redirects them to the sign in page.
User Personas
I created two users personas to keep in mind as I redesigned the app. I wanted to make sure that the app was functional for people who are both tech savvy and not.
I created a color palette to be consistent in my color usage. I chose App State media approved colors. However I ended up not using all of them in my design.
Color Palette
Wireframes
I came up with a basic function, where users could adjust their account information through the app, find alumni groups, view the directory, and find deals for App State alumni.
Final Design
For my final design, I focused on using a curved modern design with high contrasting colors. I included images of App States campus as a background of the app. I mainly used muted gold as my main color with some pops of bright gold.
Impact
My design makes the app more functional, easier to use, and visually appealing. This will make it easier for Alumni to use and connect with others in their area.
