Panda international
Google Certificate Project
Project overview
The product
Panda International is a non profit organization that aims to save and protect the endangered species of Pandas. Panda International strives to to ensure the preservation and propagation of the endangered Giant Panda. By providing public awareness and education, support for research, habitat preservation and enhancement, and assistance to Giant Panda Centers.
My Role And Responsibilities
UX designer designing an app / responsive web for Panda International from conception to delivery.
Conducting interviews, paper and digital wireframing, low and high fidelity prototyping, conducting usability studies, accounting for accessibility, and iterating on designs.
User Research
I conducted interviews and created empathy maps to understand the users I’m designing for and their needs. A primary user group identified through research was most people have no awareness of the endangerment of Pandas.
This user group confirmed initial assumptions about the non profit organizations, but research also revealed that lack of awareness was not the only factor limiting users from donating to a cause.
Other user problems included being confused about a lot of other non profit organizations and not being able to decide on a particular cause.
Design
Paper wireframes
Taking the time to draft iterations of each screen of the app on paper ensured that the elements that made it to digital wireframes would be well-suited to address user pain points. For the home screen, I prioritized a quick and easy ordering process to help users save time.
Digital Wireframes
As the initial design phase continued, I made sure to base screen designs feedback and findings from user research.
Refining the design
High fidelity prototypes and mockups
Mockups
Early designs allowed only texts and no visuals and information about the awareness of Pandas but after the usability studies I added additional information of the products and made it easier for users to add the products into the cart as well as knowing how to help.
Going Forward
Impact and what I learnt
One quote from feedback:
“the website made it so easy and fun to acquire knowledge about the current situation on Pandas and also to adopt a Panda which i loved. Definitely my go-to app/site.”
While designing Panda International, I learned that the first ideas for the app are only the beginning of the process. Usability studies and peer feedback are also equally important.