Blossom
Blossom
Blossom
A mobile app designed to support young people who are at risk or experiencing homelessness to support their journey to reintegrate back into local communities.
Role
Role
Sole UX/UI Designer
Sole UX/UI Designer
Sole UX/UI Designer
Time
Time
4 Weeks
4 Weeks
4 Weeks
Tools
Tools
Figma
Figma
Figma
Problem Statement
Problem Statement
Problem Statement
Young people experiencing homelessness encounter many challenges, including difficulties accessing housing due to policy discrimination, leaving their homes and relationships having been to some extent socially and financially dependent, and significant developmental transitions during the crucial phase of transitioning into adulthood.
Young people experiencing homelessness encounter many challenges, including difficulties accessing housing due to policy discrimination, leaving their homes and relationships having been to some extent socially and financially dependent, and significant developmental transitions during the crucial phase of transitioning into adulthood.
Young people experiencing homelessness encounter many challenges, including difficulties accessing housing due to policy discrimination, leaving their homes and relationships having been to some extent socially and financially dependent, and significant developmental transitions during the crucial phase of transitioning into adulthood.
Solution
Solution
Solution
To support the youth reintegration journey, I will design a user-centred mobile app for youths offering various support and resources, as well as relevant tools such as housing, education, and healthcare support young people experiencing or at risk of homelessness reintegrate back into local communities.
To support the youth reintegration journey, I will design a user-centred mobile app for youths offering various support and resources, as well as relevant tools such as housing, education, and healthcare support young people experiencing or at risk of homelessness reintegrate back into local communities.
To support the youth reintegration journey, I will design a user-centred mobile app for youths offering various support and resources, as well as relevant tools such as housing, education, and healthcare support young people experiencing or at risk of homelessness reintegrate back into local communities.
Overview
Overview
Overview
Youth homelessness is a serious problem in the UK. A homeless charity CentrePoint reported an estimated 129,000 young people between the age of 16 - 24 were either experiencing or at risk of homelessness in 2021-22. Various factors contribute to youth homelessness, ranging from family breakdowns to exclusion from school, leaving care, and the burden of physical and mental health struggles. Additionally, underlying factors such as gang crime, being a refugee, and domestic violence further compound this issue. The app is aimed at Gen Z who are a mobile-first generation so when creating an app that is supporting youth reintegrating back into local communities, I need to ensure I have that in mind.
Youth homelessness is a serious problem in the UK. A homeless charity CentrePoint reported an estimated 129,000 young people between the age of 16 - 24 were either experiencing or at risk of homelessness in 2021-22. Various factors contribute to youth homelessness, ranging from family breakdowns to exclusion from school, leaving care, and the burden of physical and mental health struggles. Additionally, underlying factors such as gang crime, being a refugee, and domestic violence further compound this issue. The app is aimed at Gen Z who are a mobile-first generation so when creating an app that is supporting youth reintegrating back into local communities, I need to ensure I have that in mind.
Youth homelessness is a serious problem in the UK. A homeless charity CentrePoint reported an estimated 129,000 young people between the age of 16 - 24 were either experiencing or at risk of homelessness in 2021-22. Various factors contribute to youth homelessness, ranging from family breakdowns to exclusion from school, leaving care, and the burden of physical and mental health struggles. Additionally, underlying factors such as gang crime, being a refugee, and domestic violence further compound this issue. The app is aimed at Gen Z who are a mobile-first generation so when creating an app that is supporting youth reintegrating back into local communities, I need to ensure I have that in mind.
User Research
User Research
User research stems from reports from charities that work with young people experiencing or at risk of homelessness. This research helped me understand the challenges these young people face in gaining a better understanding of their needs and goals.
"Youth homelessness in the UK has increased by an estimated two-fifths in five years, rising to more than 120,000"
Source: The Guardian)
User research stems from reports from charities that work with young people experiencing or at risk of homelessness. This research helped me understand the challenges these young people face in gaining a better understanding of their needs and goals.
"Youth homelessness in the UK has increased by an estimated two-fifths in five years, rising to more than 120,000"
Source: The Guardian)
User research stems from reports from charities that work with young people experiencing or at risk of homelessness. This research helped me understand the challenges these young people face in gaining a better understanding of their needs and goals.
"Youth homelessness in the UK has increased by an estimated two-fifths in five years, rising to more than 120,000"
Source: The Guardian)
Further Insight:
User Interview
User Interview
User Interview
Further Insight:
These quotes are from the charity Homeless Link report on youth homelessness: "Young and Homeless 2020"
Key Findings:
The cost of living crisis including the spiral increase in housing makes it difficult for young people to find affordable housing.
Systemic inequalities contribute to the disproportionate impact of homelessness on young black people.
The pandemic highlighted the urgent need to strengthen support networks and services for young people.
These quotes are from the charity Homeless Link report on youth homelessness: "Young and Homeless 2020"
Key Findings:
The cost of living crisis including the spiral increase in housing makes it difficult for young people to find affordable housing.
Systemic inequalities contribute to the disproportionate impact of homelessness on young black people.
The pandemic highlighted the urgent need to strengthen support networks and services for young people.
These quotes are from the charity Homeless Link report on youth homelessness: "Young and Homeless 2020"
Key Findings:
The cost of living crisis including the spiral increase in housing makes it difficult for young people to find affordable housing.
Systemic inequalities contribute to the disproportionate impact of homelessness on young black people.
The pandemic highlighted the urgent need to strengthen support networks and services for young people.
Competitive Analysis
Competitive Analysis
I conducted a competitive analysis for apps that are available on the app store, focusing on comparing app features, user journey, and UI elements. This will help me understand better what features would be beneficial to users when designing the app.
I conducted a competitive analysis for apps that are available on the app store, focusing on comparing app features, user journey, and UI elements. This will help me understand better what features would be beneficial to users when designing the app.
I conducted a competitive analysis for apps that are available on the app store, focusing on comparing app features, user journey, and UI elements. This will help me understand better what features would be beneficial to users when designing the app.
Further Insight:
Key Findings:
Using simple language is important when providing information.
Create an app with a simple, intuitive, and visually appealing design for users of all technical proficiency levels.
Having a map feature is crucial for users to find their nearest support service easily.
Balance the use of words and images in the user journey to prevent cognitive overload.
Key Findings
Using simple language is important when providing information.
Create an app with a simple, intuitive, and visually appealing design for users of all technical proficiency levels.
Having a map feature is crucial for users to easily find their nearest support service.
Balance the use of words and images in the user journey to make it more.
Key Findings:
Using simple language is important when providing information.
Create an app with a simple, intuitive, and visually appealing design for users of all technical proficiency levels.
Having a map feature is crucial for users to find their nearest support service easily.
Balance the use of words and images in the user journey to prevent cognitive overload.
Define
Define
User Personas
User Personas
The user personas were created based on the findings of my user research. I wanted to make sure that the personas reflected the real challenges that these young people face so that I could design a solution that would be efficient in meeting the objective.
The user personas were created based on the findings of my user research. I wanted to make sure that the personas reflected the real challenges that these young people face so that I could design a solution that would be efficient in meeting the objective.
The user personas were created based on the findings of my user research. I wanted to make sure that the personas reflected the real challenges that these young people face so that I could design a solution that would be efficient in meeting the objective.
Ideation
Ideation
Mind Maps
Mind Maps
I created a mind map to gather my thoughts and ideas based on my user research.
I created a mind map to gather my thoughts and ideas based on my user research.
I created a mind map to gather my thoughts and ideas based on my user research.
Information Architecture
Information Architecture
I used information architecture to help organise and structure the information for the app I'm designing, to ensure that it is user-friendly and easy to understand. This includes creating clear and concise labels, using consistent terminology, and grouping related information. I also made sure to use a simple navigation system that users are familiarise with.
I used information architecture to help organise and structure the information for the app I'm designing, to ensure that it is user-friendly and easy to understand. This includes creating clear and concise labels, using consistent terminology, and grouping related information. I also made sure to use a simple navigation system that users are familiarise with.
I used information architecture to help organise and structure the information for the app I'm designing, to ensure that it is user-friendly and easy to understand. This includes creating clear and concise labels, using consistent terminology, and grouping related information. I also made sure to use a simple navigation system that users are familiarise with.
Crazy 8
Crazy 8
I used the Crazy 8 technique as a method in my ideation phase to sketch and explore many possible design solutions and potential layouts. This has helped me to explore beyond initial ideas inspired by user research. From the sketches, I selected the best ideas to refine and develop further in the design process.
I used the Crazy 8 technique as a method in my ideation phase to sketch and explore many possible design solutions and potential layouts. This has helped me to explore beyond initial ideas inspired by user research. From the sketches, I selected the best ideas to refine and develop further in the design process.
I used the Crazy 8 technique as a method in my ideation phase to sketch and explore many possible design solutions and potential layouts. This has helped me to explore beyond initial ideas inspired by user research. From the sketches, I selected the best ideas to refine and develop further in the design process.
Mid Fidelity Wireframe
Mid Fidelity Wireframe
Mid Fidelity Wireframe
High Fidelity Wireframe
High Fidelity Wireframe
High Fidelity Wireframe
The Solution
The Solution
The Solution
Prototype
Prototype
Link to the prototype : Click Me !
Prototype
Link to the prototype : Click Me !
Design System
Design System
Design System
Accessibility
Accessibility
When designing Blossom, I wanted it to be accessible and inclusive for all users when navigating the app. I implemented the following measures:
Used the Contrast plugin on Figma to ensure I complied with the WCAG 2.1 AA/ AAA standards.
Ensured to use simplified language to make it easier to digest the content for users, avoiding technical jargon.
Included a dictation icon in the search bar to assist users with mobility challenges.
Provided a language selection option so users can access support without facing language barriers.
Clear navigation labelling to help users navigate the app with ease.
When designing Blossom, I wanted it to be accessible and inclusive for all users when navigating the app. I implemented the following measures:
Used the Contrast plugin on Figma to ensure I complied with the WCAG 2.1 AA/ AAA standards.
Ensured to use simplified language to make it easier to digest the content for users, avoiding technical jargon.
Included a dictation icon in the search bar to assist users with mobility challenges.
Provided a language selection option so users can access support without facing language barriers.
Clear navigation labelling to help users navigate the app with ease.
User Testing
User Testing
I conducted user testing with a small group of users to gather feedback on the design of the app, and whether it met the brief's criteria. I presented them with the final mockups and prototype of the app. The feedback received was positive as users described the design as "easy to use" and "helpful", "not overwhelming to navigate".
Reflection
Reflection
I found this case study enjoyable and insightful. I was able to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges that young people face when dealing with homelessness. I believe that this understanding helped me to create a user-centred solution that would be effective in supporting young people.
One of the challenges I faced was not being able to conduct primary research due to limited resources. I would have liked to conduct user interviews or surveys to gain direct insights into users' needs, behaviours, and preferences. This would have revealed new opportunities for user needs that may not have been initially evident. Nevertheless, the secondary research that I conducted played a crucial part in understanding the pain points and goals that needed to be addressed.
Overall, prioritising user needs and embracing future iterations, this app holds the potential to be a powerful tool for young people navigating the challenges of homelessness.
I found this case study enjoyable and insightful. I was able to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges that young people face when dealing with homelessness. I believe that this understanding helped me to create a user-centred solution that would be effective in supporting young people.
One of the challenges I faced was not being able to conduct primary research due to limited resources. I would have liked to conduct user interviews or surveys to gain direct insights into users' needs, behaviours, and preferences. This would have revealed new opportunities for user needs that may not have been initially evident. Nevertheless, the secondary research that I conducted played a crucial part in understanding the pain points and goals that needed to be addressed.
Overall, prioritising user needs and embracing future iterations, this app holds the potential to be a powerful tool for young people navigating the challenges of homelessness.
I found this case study enjoyable and insightful. I was able to gain a deeper understanding of the challenges that young people face when dealing with homelessness. I believe that this understanding helped me to create a user-centred solution that would be effective in supporting young people.
One of the challenges I faced was not being able to conduct primary research due to limited resources. I would have liked to conduct user interviews or surveys to gain direct insights into users' needs, behaviours, and preferences. This would have revealed new opportunities for user needs that may not have been initially evident. Nevertheless, the secondary research that I conducted played a crucial part in understanding the pain points and goals that needed to be addressed.
Overall, prioritising user needs and embracing future iterations, this app holds the potential to be a powerful tool for young people navigating the challenges of homelessness.
Have a project in mind?
Let's bring your design vision to life.
Have a project in mind?
Let's bring your design vision to life.
Have a project in mind?
Let's bring your design vision to life.
Have a project in mind?
Let's bring your design vision to life.
Have a project in mind?
Let's bring your design vision to life.