User Study

We first conducted interviews to understand the habits of our target demographic. I interviewed extreme cases in particular, such as those who live in areas where hiking trails are not as accessible, in order to acquire varied data. Afterwards, we compiled the information into an affinity diagram to better visualize the traits of our interviewees.

Conceptualization

From our findings, we identified common pain points shared between our interviewees. Using this information, each member sketched out low fidelity storyboards to draft potential user interactions. Next, important considerations from each storyboard were combined and was then redrawn in a higher quality digital version.

Wireframing

With the storyboard in mind, my team then began to wireframe interaction paths and graphical interfaces individually. I looked up dissimilar applications in order to present possible visual alternatives, such as a homepage dashboard and image overlays for navigation to contrast with visuals found in contemporary hiking apps, such as navigation bars and the heavy use of flat design and icons.

Initial Prototype

My team then came back together to assess, combine and improve ideas from our wireframes, such as my concepts on the explore and progress tracking pages. These would then be implemented into an initial wireframe done in Figma.

For the next phase of our design process, we conducted a round of user tests to determine strengths to capitalize on and weaknesses to address within our final prototype.

Final Prototype

Several confusing elements were identified from the data that I synthesized, such as the meanings of certain terms and icons, as well as the interactions of certain elements. Using the test results to inform our revisions, numerous changes were made, including the use of a different elevation icon to improve clarity and modifying the 'sorted by' message on the explore page to reduce decision making time.