RATEMATE
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UX
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RATEMATE • UX •
Role: Sole UX Designer
Those who travel internationally will encounter the problem of dealing with currencies different than there own. Whether it is planning a budget beforehand, needing to find out the price of something in the moment, or finding a currency exchange, users need help. They need something that is easy, quick, and reliable both on and offline for their conversion needs.
The Problem
Research
I conducted in depth online interviews with potential users to who frequently travel internationally to gain an understanding of their problems or struggles when abroad. Through these interviews, I found the following pain points from potential users when it comes to dealing with foreign currency, and developed personas of my potential clients.
Large Purchases
Users appeared apprehensive on large purchases in foreign currencies without familiarity with the exchange rate. The design should make these decisions easier and quicker.
multiple Purchases
Users appeared to get lost in terms of cost totals once multiple purchase items come into play. The design should allow for multiple conversions and calculations at once.
reloading exchange rates
Users found they went through repetitive processes for every time they make a new exchange rate calculation. The design should be centered around repeated usage and mitigating / anticipating steps.
internet access
In foreign countries, users found the inability to look up exchange rates without internet as a large concern or potential stressor. The design should not require internet connectivity to function normally.
Persona: Leona Warbuck
Persona: Armin Thomas
User Flow: Leona Warbuck
Design architecture
The initial planning of RateMate’s functionality.
Wireframes and sketches
I sketched out wireframes and scenarios to start ideating on how RateMate will look and on how the functionality helps solve the initial problem.
Paper Sketches: Scenarios and Wireframes
Digital Wireframe: Home Page
Digital Wireframe: Currency Converter
Digital Wireframe: History
lofi Prototype
I developed low fidelity prototypes to test out if RateMate was meeting the goals of being easy and efficient when converting currencies.
usability study findings
Prototypes and questionnaires were given to users to test unmoderated. They answered questions based on RateMate’s ease of use, as well as if the project design were solving the problems of the users. You can find the prototype and questionnaire here.
lacked confidence in using features
Users felt there was not enough context when it came to navigating though the app, losing confidence in their decisions.
converter feature was not fleshed out
Users thought the currency converter was not fully realized. They wanted more prominence in currency identity, clarity on how to input numbers, and were unsure on how certain features functioned (mainly real-time conversion).
Needed clarity in navigation
Users got confused when navigating the website. They wanted more clarity on what items were clickable and changes in iconography to better match the function of buttons.
mock ups and hifi prototype
Based on the usability findings, mock ups were created to address the feedback and refine a style for RateMate. You can explore the HiFi prototype here.
Process: Saving New Currency Group
Process: Real Time Convert a Menu
Process: Save History into a Group of Past Conversions
Mock Up: Home Page
Mock Up: Currency Converter
Mock Up: History
Mock Up: All Mock Up Frames
Mock Up: Design System
TAKEAWAYS AND NEXT STEPS
Takeaways
Clarity: Through the UX project, it became evident that users prioritize clarity when navigating each iteration of interface design. Clear navigation pathways and intuitive layouts are essential for seamless user experiences. By prioritizing clarity, I can ensure that users can effortlessly find what they need, enhancing overall satisfaction and engagement.
Capability: Recognizing the diverse range of user experiences with technology, it's crucial to design with inclusivity in mind. Not every user has the same level of technological proficiency or access, and can effect people’s confidence in their actions. Therefore, the design process underscored the importance of creating interfaces that cater to easy and simple wording, designs, and actions. With the goal to ensure usability for all levels.
Globalization: In an increasingly interconnected world, the significance of globally recognized design elements cannot be overstated. The UX project highlighted the necessity of using universally understood icons and symbols to transcend language barriers and cultural differences. By adopting a global perspective in design, I facilitated seamless interactions for users across diverse geographic locations, fostering inclusivity and accessibility on a global scale.
Next Steps
Creating real-time rate alerts for saved conversions.
Showcase historical exchange rate data.
Continue to design and explore options for inclusivity of all global currencies.