THE OVERVIEW
INKredible is a newly created mobile and web application designed to change the way individuals explore inspiration for tattoo designs according to preferences such as artist and style. With ease of use and simple design style, INKredible delivers an enjoyable experience.
Creating INKredible from the ground up afforded me the flexibility to work on all aspects of development. In total the project included, detailed user research, persona development, information architecture, prototyping, wireframing, user interface design, user experience design, A/B testing, SEO, competitor analysis, and significant user testing.
My Approach
My approach to INKredible included four phases: Research, Design, Development, and Delivery. While I was able to adhere to this track, I value the importance of nontraditional design development and working in non-linear approach. Working in Lean UX helped to identify pain points early in the design process and to avoid wasting precious time and resources correcting errors.
Discovery.
Card Sorts
Card sorting exercises were run to help provide a good foundation and structure to the website and application. Participants were asked to group cards according to criteria that make sense to them. This helped me layout my plan for a successful information architecture.
Affinity Mapping
By hierarchically grouping data, post-it-notes reveal problems and needs, they act as the voice of the customer and the issues become the basis for user requirements. I was able to create a visual representation of large amounts of data that helped to inform future strategy.
Sitemaps
Multiple sitemaps were created representing the information architecture and site hierarchy.
User Research
My goal was to design a product that was ready for market as soon as possible. Early user testing determined which features were most important to our target market.
A large amount of competitor research was conducted before any design work took place. User research helped to establish INKredible’s user goals. Through this research I was able to establish a solid foundation upon which to build INKredible.
Large amounts of user testing methods were employed. A/B testing, monitored testing, unmonitored testing and guerrilla testing methods were used to obtain a holistic look at the wants and needs of users.
Competitor Analysis
Using surveys, interviews, Google keywords, and market research, I was able to best develop a cohesive understanding of what users want and what the market has to offer. This information combined with the methodology of Lean UX aided me in identifying INKredible’s goals.
Competitor analysis
Competitor profile
Google keyword/phrase search
Surveys/interviews
User testing
Market research
User Analysis
User personas were created early in the development of INKredible. After determining INKredible’s goals, I created personas to represent the market. The personas aided me in designing the user flow and served to remind me that I was designing for real people, not just my own needs.
DESIGN
My focus in designing INKredible was to create a simple and easy to use app that was also aesthetically pleasing. Often apps are too complex and lack user empathy. I aim to always keep the user’s needs in mind when developing. I began my design using a pen and paper and progressed through high fidelity wireframes.
Wireframes
Rapid pen and paper wireframes provided quick and easy visualization. Greyscale wireframes allowed for viable user testing. The user testing results drove the UI focus. From pen and paper I progressed to high fidelity wire frames. INKredible evolved from a simple idea to a powerful tool. During development INKredible underwent several refinements and redesigns.
Rapid Iteration.
Pen and paper wireframes were created during early stage conceptualization. The paper prototypes were key to help test and visualize various ideas.
Medium fidelity wireframes.
I started to define the specific elements and visual hierarchy. I used these wireframes to test specifics like layout and content. I developed these screens early in the process to test my ideas before getting bogged down in the fine details.
Build-Measure-Learn
conceptualization through paper prototypes
paper prototype testing
design refinement from user testing results
re-testing refinement
production of greyscale wireframes
digital wireframe testing
design refinement from user testing results
user flow testing
user flow refinement and addition of UI
test refunded prototypes
refine designs using feedback
test validity of prototypes
refine and polish design into high fidelity prototype
Cross Platform Synchronization
Never worry if your newly favorited design or booked appointment will sync across all of your devices. INKredible will sync your information instantly and automatically for you, making your life easier!
On the go.
Stay connected to the best artists
and tattoo experts in the industry.
Easy access anywhere in the world,
let INKredible help you find
the best tattoo artists and parlors.
All in one.
INKredible delivers a product that contains everything you will need to search and discover new and favorite tattoo design inspiration. INKredible’s calendar and messaging system have never been easier to use. Easily connect with local and worldwide tattoo professionals.
