To ensure we were solving the right problem, we used the Double Diamond design process model, which consists of four phases: Discover, Define, Design, and Deliver. This structured approach guided our work at Cooltured.

The Process

  • Discover: Exploring & Contextualizing the Problem

    To keep our users at the center, we conducted interviews with users who enjoy anime to understand the product and its challenges. I led a meeting to organize our thoughts by identifying what we knew and what we needed to learn. I then moderated 10 user interviews to gain deeper insights.

  • Define: Narrowing In On the Problem

    After gathering findings, I led a synthesis session with the team, grouping interview notes into themes that highlighted key pain points. These insights laid the foundation for our redesign.

  • Develop: Designing a Solution

    Due to remote work, all collaboration was virtual. I co-facilitated a design studio session where we generated ideas and voted on the best ones. I synthesized the team’s sketches into a low-fidelity wireframe.

  • Deliver: Testing the Solution

    I translated our wireframe into a high-fidelity prototype using Figma. The prototype significantly decluttered the interface and simplified navigation. Users rated the new experience 4.75/5 in usability tests.

Communication

What I Learned

Tailoring presentations to different audiences, from engineers to executives, helped me refine my storytelling and persuasion skills. I learned how to break down complex design concepts into clear, actionable insights that drive decision-making.

Information Architecture:

Structuring content and designing intuitive navigation systems have been crucial in creating seamless user experiences. I’ve learned how to organize complex information hierarchies, develop wireframes, and implement logical flows that enhance usability and engagement.

Problem-Solving:

Working on diverse projects taught me how to approach challenges with a structured, goal-oriented mindset. Whether through usability testing, data analysis, or design iterations, I’ve learned to identify pain points and craft effective solutions.

User Research:

Conducting interviews, surveys, and usability testing has helped me uncover real user needs and behaviors. By analyzing qualitative and quantitative data, I’ve been able to translate research insights into meaningful design improvements that enhance user satisfaction and engagement.

Some of the Cool Things I Got to Do

  • Tested and refined design solutions:

  • Proposed a new user flow for Cooltured's homepage, Product page, and Explore page.

  • Collaborated across design, research, and product teams.

  • Proposed a new user flow for Cooltured's homepage, Product page, and Explore page.