Role:

UI Designer, UX Researcher

Oddio

To address the growing demand for convenience and versatility in audio experiences, I decided to create a sound connecting app that will revolutionize the way users connect and use their wireless speakers. This change was motivated by the need to simplify and enhance the user experience.

Users often face challenges in managing multiple speakers, creating custom audio setups, and controlling playback from their devices. By developing this app, I aimed to provide a seamless and intuitive solution that makes these tasks easier.

This app is designed to improve the audio experience, whether at home, in the office, or on the go, ensuring users can effortlessly manage their audio devices.

Programs Used:

Figma, FigJam, Illustrator

Timeline:

100 Hours

Research

  1. Understand user preferences and behaviors regarding the use of speaker connecting apps.

  2. Identify usability issues and pain points in existing speaker connecting apps.

  3. Gather insights into users' expectations for features and functionalities in a speaker connecting app.

  4. Explore the technical requirements and constraints for developing a robust and reliable speaker connecting app.

  5. Assess the potential impact of different design choices on user engagement and satisfaction.

  6. Investigate the importance of compatibility with different speaker brands and models for users.

  7. Determine the significance of intuitive controls and user-friendly interfaces in enhancing the overall user experience.

COMPETITIVE Research

I analyzed top platforms like Mackie FreePlay Connect, AV Controller App, and Klipsch Connect to develop a valuable proposition for an audio connecting app.

User Interviews

I organized related ideas, feedback, and user insights into clusters, transforming the overwhelming information from user research, brainstorming, and usability testing into a coherent picture. In one project, we received diverse feedback, and clustering revealed common themes, enabling us to make informed decisions and solve problems effectively. This method showed that even complex information could be managed and harnessed for success.

Insights

  • 10/10 users wanted all of the information on one screen

  • 50% of people wanted to press fewer buttons

Personas

Drawing from my work and user interviews, I created personas to uncover valuable insights that inform intuitive design choices.

User Flows and Sitemap

Based on past interviews and research, I've decided to add features like Pair Device, Sound Equalizer, Choose Input, Zone Selection, and DSP Zones. These features aim to enhance the user experience with intuitive controls and personalized options.

Feature Set

Based on my research, I identified and prioritized key features for the end-to-end app, ranking them from most critical to least. Each feature was evaluated for its impact on user experience and functionality. This approach ensures a seamless, user-friendly interface that meets core user needs while enhancing overall usability and appeal.

Low fidelity Wireframes

When I introduced a new feature for the Oddio app, I used a low-fidelity wireframe to bring the journey to life.

This prototype showcased the concepts and innovations, acting as a roadmap toward a cohesive and polished final product

Testing and Iterations

Test Goals

  • Functionality Testing: Ensure all features of the Oddio app work as intended.

Participants

  • Group Critiques: Conduct usability testing with participants from group critique sessions.

  • External Participants: Gather feedback from individuals outside the group for diverse insights.

Usability Testing Questions

Navigation:

  • Can you find and access the main menu easily?

  • Is the navigation intuitive?

Device Connection:

  • How easy is it to connect multiple audio devices?

  • Can you specify the connection zone without issues?

Sound Equalizer:

  • Is the equalizer interface user-friendly?

  • Can you adjust EQ settings easily?

Input Selection:

  • Is the input screen clear and prominent?

  • Is switching between audio inputs easy?

Device Management:

  • How easy is it to rename or select devices?

  • Is the connection process seamless?

Visual Appeal:

  • Is the app design visually appealing?

  • Are the icons and pop-up tabs easy to use?

Guided Steps:

  • Are the steps for connecting a device clear?

User Experience Questions

How satisfied are you with the app?

  • Are any features missing or need improvement?

Ease of Use:

  • How easy is the app to use?

  • Any confusing elements or steps?

Feedback:

  • What are your favorite features?

  • Any suggestions for improvement?

Insights and Feedback

Design Elements:

  • Consider using icons and sliders for EQ knobs.

  • Use a dropdown menu for selecting the device name.

User Interface Adjustments:

  • Make the pop-up tab and input screen more prominent.

  • Simplify the "connect device" screen by removing the top tab.

User Experience Improvements:

  • Clarify the intention and steps for connecting devices, possibly with tabs.

Changes Made

Color palette and UI Component Library

I created this library to enhance the user experience, especially for those working with audio content. The user-friendly font, associated with audio themes, is visually appealing, easy to read, and accessible on various devices. My goal was to create a resource that integrates seamlessly into workflows, making audio interactions more intuitive and enjoyable. The font's design also complements the auditory content, providing a cohesive and immersive experience.

Key Elements

1.Ensures consistency across your application.

2.Enhances efficiency and scalability.

3.Makes development smoother and faster.

High Fidelity Wire Frames

Through high-fidelity designs, we created a final product’s visual design and layout, showcasing colors, typography, and interactive features. It was like bringing a sketch to life, giving stakeholders a tangible understanding of the user experience.

As we got into the process, we had some great discussions about visual components and branding, all thanks to the clarity from the wireframe. It turned into a key tool for real user testing and feedback, helping us fine-tune and prioritize the user experience. This stage wasn't just about design; it was about creating a smooth and engaging journey for every Oddio user.

Prototype

Imagine unveiling a new feature for the Oddio app. UI design prototype springs to life as a dynamic, interactive model of the product's interface. It allows designers to vividly showcase their concepts and innovations, transforming ideas into tangible experiences.

Working Prototype

This prototype provides stakeholders and team members with a tangible preview of how the final product will look, function, and feel, fostering lively discussions, gathering valuable feedback, and facilitating informed decision-making throughout the design process.

*Best if viewed on Desktop

Reflection

How has this project contributed to my growth as a UX designer?

  1. Working on the Oddio sound connecting device project significantly advanced my growth as a UX designer.

  2. Implemented and refined features for Oddio, gaining hands-on experience in understanding user needs and preferences in sound technology.

  3. Conducted user research, prototyping, and testing to design user-friendly features that enhance the overall user experience.

  4. Equipped me with practical skills and knowledge for future projects.

What were the main challenges and unexpected findings I encountered during the project?

  1. Identifying exactly what users wanted from a sound connecting device like Oddio, given their diverse needs and preferences.

  2. Difficulty in finding participants who regularly used such devices, limiting the diversity of insights.

  3. Unexpectedly, users preferred a streamlined interface with fewer screens.

  4. Broadened my recruitment strategy and focused on designing a more efficient app flow with minimal screens and actions, ensuring a smoother user experience.

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