How My College Courses Equipped Me with Practical Skills - SMAD 317

As I reflect on my college experience, there are a few courses that stand out as transformative chapters in my growth as a designer and this is one of them. SMAD 317: the study of web and mobile interaction design principles. This course delved into the intricacies of goal-driven design, usability, interactive design strategy, wireframing, and prototype development. In this course I was tasked with the challenge to create an application that solved a problem I actively face. I collaborated with a partner and develop a groundbreaking app, employing all stages of UX and user research. In this blog post, I will share the invaluable insights gained from this class and highlight the journey that led to our app winning the prestigious Best of Digital 2022 Award from the Association of Journalism and Mass Communication.

Goal-Driven Design:

The study of web and mobile interaction design principles taught me the significance of goal-driven design. By understanding the objectives and needs of our target audience, we were able to craft an app that fulfilled their specific requirements. Through comprehensive user research and a deep understanding of their pain points, we developed an app that seamlessly aligned with their goals, enhancing their overall experience and satisfaction.

Usability and Interactive Design Strategy:

Creating a user-friendly and intuitive app was at the forefront of our design process. Through the exploration of usability principles, we gained insights into the factors that contribute to a positive user experience. We implemented interactive design strategies such as clear navigation, consistent visual cues, and intuitive interactions, ensuring that users could easily navigate and engage with our app. By prioritizing usability, we created an app that was efficient, effective, and enjoyable to use.

Wireframing and Prototype Development:

Wireframing played a crucial role in our app development journey. It allowed us to visualize the app's structure and flow, ensuring that the user journey was seamless and logical. By creating wireframes, we were able to iterate and refine our design concepts, taking into account feedback from user testing. This iterative process allowed us to craft an app that was both visually appealing and highly functional. We then progressed to the prototype development stage, bringing our vision to life and showcasing the app's interactive elements and features.

UX Research and User-Centered Design:

User research played a pivotal role in shaping our app. Through surveys, interviews, and usability testing, we gained valuable insights into our target audience's preferences, behaviors, and pain points. This user-centered design approach allowed us to make informed design decisions, ensuring that our app met the specific needs of our users. By prioritizing their feedback and integrating it into our design iterations, we created an app that truly resonated with our audience.

Best of Digital 2022 Award:

The culmination of our efforts and dedication resulted in our app receiving the prestigious Best of Digital 2022 Award from the Association of Journalism and Mass Communication in the large school division. This recognition not only validated our hard work but also reinforced the importance of user-centered design and the value of a holistic approach to interaction design. This achievement showcased our ability to create innovative solutions that combine aesthetic appeal with functionality and user satisfaction.

My journey through the study of web and mobile interaction design principles has been an incredible experience. Through collaboration with a partner, we were able to develop an app that excelled in usability, interactivity, and user-centered design. By employing goal-driven design, wireframing, and prototype development, we created an app that delivered an exceptional user experience. Our recognition with the Best of Digital 2022 Award solidified our commitment to pushing the boundaries of interaction design and reinforced the value of user research and a user-centered approach. As I embark on my professional career, I am excited to continue crafting meaningful digital experiences that engage and delight users, and to contribute to the creation of new products.