PROJECT DURATION
January 2024 - February 2024
MY ROLE
Generalist UX/UI designer
TOOLS
Figma
THE PROBLEM
The scientific community faces significant challenges in finding jobs, accessing training opportunities and networking effectively in their fields. The dispersion of information and scarcity of specific tools for scientists make it difficult to connect employers and candidates, as well as to access resources for professional development.
THE GOAL
To provide a centralized and specialized platform that facilitates job search, access to scholarships and training, networking among scientific professionals, as well as access to scientific news and professional advice. The purpose is to create a dynamic community that facilitates finding opportunities, sharing knowledge and progressing in an effective and collaborative way.
Design process
EMPATHIZE
Interviews
Online research
User personas
User journey maps
Competitive analysis
DEFINE
User stories
Problem statements
IDEATE
Initial ideas
User flows
Information architecture
DESIGN
Wireframes & lo-fi prototype
Design system Mockups & hi-fi prototype
TEST
Usability tests
Iteration
Thoughts
Understanding the user
Interviews were conducted with people in the sector to get their point of view on the difficulties they face in their field.
This, along with online research, allowed me to learn what tools would be useful to the scientific community, highlighting the need for a platform that brings together diverse resources to help scientists continue to progress in their careers.
User pain points
There are nearly 9 million scientists around the world and most of them face a variety of challenges to achieve success in their careers....
FUNDING
Securing project funding involves searching multiple sources and mastering proposal writing. Plus, many scientists are unaware of numerous fellowships and internships available.
NETWORKING
Collaboration is crucial for research but can be challenging, especially early on. Setting clear expectations, establishing communication channels, and fostering teamwork are essential.
INFORMATION
Scientists face a deluge of data, requiring them to learn effective management strategies. They also need to keep up with advancements in their specific field to stay competitive and informed.
TECH
Numerous online tools exist to improve workflow in various ways. Scientists must stay updated on technological advancements to leverage these tools effectively.
JOB MARKET
Economic circumstances impact scientists' job search, leading to increased competition for limited positions. Scientists need strategies to stand out and secure job offers.
CAREER
Researchers need continuous support to advance their careers. Lack of mentoring, difficulty in accessing relevant training courses and specific tools can hinder their professional growth.
User personas & problem statemets
User research made it possible to create personas that represent different types of users. This facilitated the understanding of the problems to be addressed.
Marta is a professional who needs to find job opportunities that fit her profile in order to continue developing in her field.
Maximilian is a college student who needs to learn about career opportunities and meet people in his field in order to pursue a career in an area he is truly passionate about.
Starting the design
A first version of the app was created using wireframes, which allowed organizing all the features and iterating the designs easily based on usability study.
Features
Wireframes
Refining the design
App mockups
Web mockups
Accessibility considerations
COLORS
Adequate color contrast has been maintained for correct text legibility.
LAYOUT
The information and features of the app are well organized to facilitate navigation.
VISUALS
The use of images and iconography helps the quick understanding of the elements throughout the website.
Going forward
IMPACT
Study participants commented that such an app would be really useful to them in their careers.
A quote from one participant:
"I think it would be very helpful for me to keep up to date with the latest research and resources."
WHAT I LEARNED
I learned that there are many problems to be solved and that UX design is a fundamental tool to make people's lives easier.
NEXT STEPS
Design more screens to cover all sections of the application and conduct further studies to ensure that users' needs are met.
