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Collaborators

Timeline

Tools 


Tom McCluskey, Hannah Zhao
Sept 2023 - Dec 2023
Figma, UX Rsearch


Project Overview:

For our semester-long UX project, we were tasked with designing a library app, applying the full range of UX skills we developed throughout the course. From user research and competitive analysis to wireframing and prototyping, we worked through each stage of the design process. Toward the end, feedback from a design coach helped us refine and polish our final product. 




Transit Read



As avid readers, our team set out to solve a modern challenge: capturing and sustaining attention in a fast-paced world. With two-thirds of New York City's 8 million residents riding the subway daily and Manhattan commuters spending an average of 30.4 minutes each way, we saw an opportunity. While these commutes provide valuable time to read, attention spans have dramatically decreased, from 2.5 minutes on screens 20 years ago to just 47 seconds today. Our goal was to build an app that not only fits into the short bursts of time commuters have but also keeps them engaged and access to reading entertainment during their daily commutes.


This led to the following problem statement:

“How might we create a reading app that keeps commuters engaged and makes it easy to enjoy reading during their daily subway rides?”




User Journey





Pain Points



1. Commute2. Time3. Digital Distractions4. Physical Distractions

People have long commute times & need something to do.People don’t have time to visit the library.Notifications, phone calls, games, social media, etc.Subway noises, noisy peple, people moving on on and off the trains.




User Persona



From our interviews, we identified four key pain points and used them to develop a user persona as a foundation for our design process. 

One notable quote from a fellow reader highlighted a common frustration when reading on the subway: 


"I don’t even bother trying to read because of all the distractions."

 

This insight shaped our approach moving forward.




Research/Competitive Analysis

We looked into 4 different reading apps already out on the market 
1. Kindle
2. Libby
3. Wattpad
4. SerialReader

Based on our research, we developed a perceptual T-chart to structure our competitive analysis, aiming to position our app within the ideal shaded area for maximum impact and user engagement.



In our competitive analysis of Kindle, Wattpad, Libby, and Serial Reader, we identified two key issues across these apps. First, several had overly complex or distracting user interfaces, making it difficult for users to stay focused on their reading. Second, Kindle, while a well-known platform, stood out as the most expensive option, which could deter casual readers or those looking for a more affordable solution.


To address these gaps, we set out to design a distraction-free interface that keeps readers engaged. Additionally, we aimed to incorporate specific features that promote deeper reader engagement, such as personalized reading recommendations, progress tracking, and short-form content options tailored to the time available during commutes. This would ensure our app not only meets the practical needs of users but also enhances their overall reading experience.


Specific Additions Added:



  • Easy Online Library Checkout: An integrated system that connects directly to users’ Google accounts, eliminating the hassle of using or setting up a library card.

  • Reading Summaries for Retention:Added summaries at the end of each reading session to boost retention and comprehension.

  • Focus Mode: A distraction-free mode designed to help readers stay engaged and immersed in their reading for set periods of time.

  • Reward System: A gamified system to encourage more reading, offering coin incentives for completing books, meeting reading goals, or staying consistent. Coins can be exchanged for shortened or skipped wait times for books.





User Flow Diagram









Styleguide




We chose a vibrant color palette of turquoise and yellow for a fresh, engaging look, paired with simple, modern typefaces for readability. After multiple iterations of our menu bar, we refined it to feature just three icons to maintain a clean and straightforward user experience.




Final Prototype








Next Steps



Next, we plan to gather more user feedback through additional testing to further refine the design and ensure it aligns with user needs. We'll also explore implementing accessibility options to support individuals with focus retention disabilities, incorporating features like adjustable text spacing, font size, and reading aids. Additionally, we aim to investigate community-oriented features, such as book discussion forums, reading groups, or social sharing options, to foster a sense of connection and engagement among users.

Further Personalization Options:
  • To enhance user engagement, we plan to add more personalization features, such as in-depth reading recommendations based on user history, customizable reading lists, and tailored content for different time constraints (e.g., short reads for commutes). This will help ensure that the app adapts to individual reading preferences.

Focus Mode and Reward System:
  • We will refine our Focus Mode, allowing users to set distraction-free reading sessions, with options to tailor it to their needs. Additionally, we plan to enhance the reward system to encourage consistent reading habits by offering achievements for completed books, reaching reading milestones, and maintaining streaks. This will promote long-term engagement and motivate users to read more.