Summary

This assignment required the creation and design of an app for iOS or Android. After some brainstorming and class discussion, I dedcided on creating an app that connects the Tattoo Community. This app is called Blott. Below, I created and designed an app that provides users with an easy-to-follow platform for tattoo sharing and networking.

Analysis

I started by analyzing what functions would be necessary for my app. I listed and and all actions that may need to be performed on my app, along with creating eight possible user scenarios. I then created a sitemap visualizing how my app would flow from one page to the next.

Research

In order to create a successful tattoo app, I looked to the current apps that are live in the iOS App Store. I found three apps that each contain functions that I would like to include in my own app, and also created a sitemap for each app. By doing this, I was able to view how my competition created their apps, and figured out how to make my own app better.

User Personas

I created four personas that might represent some of the expected target audiences of this app. Using these personas, I was able to collect a greater understanding of what was and was not needed for my design and function process.

Wireframes

Creating wireframes was a pivotal part of this process. By working through these, I was able to recognize any problems and issues that may arise before I began to go any farther in my process. These wireframes were peer reviewed and recieved feedback from multiple people.

UXPin Wireframes

A step farther, I transferred my paper wireframes to UX Pin, enabling me to create and interactive wireframe that was user tested by a group of peers. This was beneficial to create the next step in the process and helped me create full page mock-ups.

Mockups

By creating this mock-up, I was able to properly show potential users and user testers how my tattoo app would perform. The mock up is fully designed for the user's best interest, and also made so the user is able to experience what the app would be like if it were to go live.

The mockup was creating based on eight scenarios. These scenarios were user tested and changes were made accordingly:

Conclusion

Designing an app from scratch was a challenge that I greatly enjoyed. Creating a new version of social media that did not directly reflect a pre-existing one took much thought and original thinking. Using what I've learned from my previous UX-based projects, creating and designing this app was a success and I feel as if I both gained new skills and grew on my pre-existing ones.