Problem

ReminderX is a simple to-do list and reminder application available on the App Store and Google Play Store. ReminderX is looking to differentiate itself from a generic to-do list application by serving its current user base better.

Actions

User Interviews

My research approach for this project was to create a research protocol and conduct user interviews. From the data and quotes collected from the interviews, I produced an affinity diagram and user flows.

Findings from interviews

• Don’t annoy the users
• Make lists obvious
• Work on all the things
• Share lists
• Make creating items easy.

User flows

The user flow started with the basics, onboarding, and reminder creation. Then, I looked at some more complex themes discovered from the research. I found that users did not like being bothered by unnecessary notifications, so I designed a workflow for users to create notification zones. For example, if a notification zone were set for work from 9-5, a user would only get reminders set relating to work. Additionally, I found that users would like to share lists with other users—for example, a grocery list between housemates.

Sketch of user onboarding workflow

Design

During this phase, I created lo-fi mocks representing the core user workflows. For most controls, I kept them simple and followed best practices. For the rest, I experimented with moving other controls near the bottom of the screen. I did this because our phones have gotten too big to operate with one hand. Placing controls like the menu at the top of the screen requires the user to use their other hand. I also had my scrolling reminders float toward the middle of the screen for the same reason. Users could complete or view reminders with one hand by reaching their thumb up toward the middle of the screen.

Results

The project was a success, and I learned a lot about user research and the design process. I enjoyed learning to interview users and consider their feedback when designing the mocks. I had to get out of my way with some features and empathize with users to produce the mocks. Working with classmates iterating on designs was insightful and productive. I received constructive feedback from the instructor that has helped shape the way I approach doing mocks.

Lessons Learned

• I needed to sketch out mobile design ideas before committing them to mocks
• I learned to start thinking dialog actions better before designing
• First time using Figma, I learned about components towards the end of the design phase
• All user feedback is valuable, even if it is brief