LinkUp
Connect with learners through shared questions and discussions
UI Design
Role
Sole UI designer with guidance from my mentor
Duration
1 month
Tools
Figma
For who is this app?
Responsive web app
As part of the curriculum of my bootcamp by CareerFoundry, I was required to design a responsive web app with a mobile first approach. We were offered a brief together with design deliverables.
Students who’d like to connect with fellow students in their field or related discipline.
User stories
As a new user, I want to find and connect with students studying my subject, so that we may collaborate.
As a student preparing for exams, I want to access study tips and resources shared by my peers, so that I can improve my understanding of difficult topics.
As a curious learner, I want to get peer feedback on my assignments, so that I can improve my classwork before submitting it to the instructor.
As someone who enjoys networking, I want to participate in discussions, so that I can engage with a broader student community.
As a knowledgeable student, I want to teach and share advice, so that I can help others and build my credibility.
User Persona
Based on the persona provided in our brief, I created a user persona containing the essential information to reference continuously throughout the design process.
Identifying the problem
Connecting with fellow students in the same field isn’t always easy. In today’s digital age with remote learning options becoming more common, students often miss out on opportunities to meet others face-to-face. Without a reliable way to connect, students can feel isolated in their studies, missing out on support and feedback that come from engaging with others. This gap calls for a digital solution—a platform designed to bring students together.
The goal of the app
To create a social network on a digital platform where students could connect with peers who share similar interests. An open space where they could collaborate on projects and exchange ideas freely.
It’s all about building a community where students can support each other’s academic journey and help each other grow.
User flow
Firstly, I created a user flow to determine the sequence of the screens and establish a clear structure for the app’s interface.
Low-fidelity wireframes
Whereafter I designed my ideas into low-fidelity wireframes to acquire the basic layout of my UI. In this first phase of the design process, I focused on outlining the core features and functionalities of the app.
The grid
I have chosen to implement a responsive grid with a fixed margin to ensure a consistent layout that adapts seamlessly to different screen sizes. The fixed margin keeps content from feeling crowded or stretched, offering a stable framework.
Setting the visual direction
To establish the mood and story that I want to tell, I created two mood boards.
I moved forward with the first mood board because its design direction is lighter and more approachable. This mood board emphasizes a sense of togetherness creating a welcoming atmosphere. As opposed to the second concept, which highlights individual leadership and personal development more.
High-fidelity mockups
With the foundational layout of my app established in the earlier design phase and a clear vision of the desired visual direction, I was ready to integrate the visual style and elements into my design.
Designing for different breakpoints
As a responsive app, I created designs for the two most essential screens; the landing page and the home page across various breakpoints.
What did it teach me?
It informed me to thoughtfully utilize extra screen space, not merely by filling it but by considering how to enhance functionality. I learned to approach each breakpoint with intention, thinking critically about how additional space could support specific use cases and streamline navigation.
What are the next steps?
I plan to design a feature enabling users to upload projects directly to their profiles. This functionality will allow students to showcase assignments, papers, and other work, gaining valuable feedback and building credibility within the app. One key challenge will be identifying the necessary steps for a smooth upload process and determining the most effective format for displaying these projects to encourage interaction and recognition.
Thank you for reading my case study!✨
Hope you enjoyed the journey as much as I did creating it! I’m always eager to learn, grow, and hear new perspectives, so feel free to reach out if you’d like to connect or discuss this project further!