Rose Keimig

challenge

Exploratory research revealed that active travelers wanted a way to plan their vacations and trips based on weather without having to use multiple apps and websites.

solution

I created a mobile app to help outdoor enthusiasts book flights that match their weather, activity, and terrain preferences.

Methods

• Directed Storytelling

• Empathy Maps

• Wireframes

• User Flow Diagram

tools

• Sketch

• Axure

• Keynote

The Challenge

For my first UX/UI project, I designed a mobile app for finding and booking a commercial airline flight.

Research

For the preliminary research, I conducted interviews with three potential users using directed storytelling techniques to better understand their flight booking experiences. All interviews were done in person and recorded with permission. After interviewing, I used empathy mapping to synthesize findings and generate a research findings report. I created personas for each user and highlighted commonalities, differences, and pain points across the user profiles.

Design

The design process began with some rough sketches, which were turned into wireframes using Sketch. After putting together a user flow diagram, the navigation for a key task flow was improved and I put together a basic prototype of the app using Axure.

Prototype Testing

Next came the fun part: trying out my design with real users. I conducted in-person usability tests with three users. All users were given the same task and asked to try to complete it using the prototype. The goal of the prototype testing was to evaluate usability of key search features and user flow through the booking process.

Evaluation

Using insights gained from notes and observations, I made a number of recommendations for improving usability and functionality of the travel app.

Results

Overall, the case study was a success. I experienced the ups and downs of a first trip through the UX cycle, and gained tons of new knowledge about the techniques, principles, and programs that enable UX designers to turn users’ ideas and desires into usable things.