Right from the start, accessibility was a major priority for this solution. To make sure it reached the widest audience possible, I opted for a responsive web application. This decision followed a comprehensive analysis of existing art platforms and leading e-commerce solutions, like Kilimall.

A responsive web application offers a seamless user experience across different devices, from desktops and laptops to tablets and smartphones. This eliminates the need for platform-specific downloads, making the platform truly accessible to a wider audience.

Initially, I considered the idea of including an events section. However, after taking a closer look at the landscape, I realized existing social media platforms like Nairobi Now and Hustle Sasa were already doing a fantastic job of event discovery. By focusing solely on art sales and promotion, this platform can offer a more laser-focused solution to the user's core problem.

Design Decision
To ensure platform-agnostic accessibility, I opted for a responsive web application design, maximizing reach and eliminating the need for platform-specific downloads.

Informed by user research, the sitemap prioritizes the core shopping experience by meticulously structuring the information hierarchy on the platform.

Ideate with crazy 8s

In the initial wireframing stage, I leveraged the Crazy 8s technique to rapidly generate a variety of design ideas. This focus on rapid iteration allowed me to explore numerous possibilities while keeping the core user experience

I then translated these initial ideas into low-fidelity wireframes, prioritizing essential features identified in the research phase. Here, I opted for a pen-and-paper approach to focus on core functionality and user flow before adding visual complexity.

Following the initial wireframes, I translated the core user flow and functionalities into low-fidelity mockups. These initial visual representations provide a clear understanding of the layout and information hierarchy.
Click here to experience the interactive lofi prorotype

Refining the Design, Usability Testing Insights

To evaluate the user experience and ensure the platform effectively meets user needs, I conducted a remote moderated usability study using low-fidelity mockups with a group of 5 participants.

The valuable feedback received led to the following key findings

• Distinguishing Artwork and Artists: Participants identified the need for a visual distinction between artwork and artist profiles. This suggested incorporating a shape change break up the monotony and improve visual clarity for users navigating the platform.
• Simplified Cart Access: Participants expressed a desire for a more streamlined approach to accessing their shopping cart. In response, the design will integrate a shopping cart icon located near the user profile, eliminating the need to navigate through settings for quicker cart access.
• Checkout Progress Visualization: The study revealed that a visual progress bar at the top of the checkout process would be beneficial . This progress bar will provide users with a clear understanding of their checkout journey, enhancing its overall usability.

Design Changes

In response to insights gained from the usability study, I enhanced the site's browsing page. Notably, I introduced a shape change to distinguish between artwork and artist profiles. This modification is intended to elevate the overall user experience by enhancing visual clarity and differentiation.

The checkout process was further enhanced by integrating a visual progress bar at the top. This user-friendly feature provides clear guidance throughout the checkout journey, keeping users informed of their progress and reducing potential confusion.

Unveiling the Vision: High-Fidelity Mockups

Building on user research and testing, i came up with these high-fidelity mockups for the mobile design. The refined visuals integrate valuable user feedback, enabling an evaluation of the user experience before development begins.

This is a video of the hi-fi protoype created in Figma. Device: mobile tablets

Designing for Everyone

Accessibility was a core principle throughout the design process. Here's how I ensured a seamless experience for all users

• Strategic Negative Space
  I utilized negative space throughout the app to minimize visual clutter . This improves readability, sharpens focus, and ultimately creates a more enjoyable user experience.
• Clear Text Hierarchy I implemented a clear text hierarchy across the application. This allows users to easily discern between sections and information displayed on the screen, making navigation intuitive.
• Accessible Icons I integrated easily recognizable icons throughout the app. This caters to users with diverse abilities, providing an additional layer of clarity and ease of use.

Challenges

Limited access to users. Due to budget constaints, recruiting a large and diverse user base for testing proved challenging. This meant I had to be creative in my approach to gather valuable user insights.

Balancing visual design with usability. Initially, I prioritized aesthetics, but user testing revealed confusion with some interactive elements. To address this, I embraced an iterative approach through multiple rounds of usability testing. This ensured my design remained visually engaging while effectively meeting user needs.

Impact

In this study, my objective was to address common issues faced by users and evaluate the impact of UX design on mood and decision-making process. Through conducting this research and design, I gained a deeper understanding of how user experience can be influenced emotions and choices.

Lessons learnt

The key lesson for me is the importance of consistently involving users throughout the design process, ensuring the creation of a user-centered product while staying aligned with impactful trends in UX design.