A Journey Into Women's Leather
We partnered with to enhance their design and create a platform that connects and inspires influential women by showcasing their impactful work.
Prototype
M A R B L E C O L L E C T I V E
Duration
Team
Tools
Client
Figma
Google Workspace
Photoshop
Figma
Google Workspace
Photoshop
4 weeks
Team Lead and designer (me),
two UX Researchers and one UI Designer.
Marble Collective, is a platform uniting design and empowerment. It serves as a centralized digital haven, fostering a global community to inspire women leaders to showcase autobiographies, content, and curated media.
The platform is designed with two distinct user personas in mind:
The Mavens: Women leading in diverse industries actively contribute personal and professional insights to inspire and connect on the platform.
The Patrons: Patrons engage with and consume platform content by following, learning from, and drawing inspiration from Mavens' impactful stories.
Duration
3 weeks
October 2023
Client
Tools
Figma
Google Workspace
Photoshop
Team
Team Lead and designer (me),
two UX Researchers and one UI Designer.
Who we are?
Marble Collective, is a platform uniting design and empowerment. It serves as a centralized digital haven, fostering a global community to inspire women leaders to showcase autobiographies, content, and curated media.
The platform is designed with two distinct user personas in mind:
The Mavens: Women leading in diverse industries actively contribute personal and professional insights to inspire and connect on the platform.
The Patrons: Patrons engage with and consume platform content by following, learning from, and drawing inspiration from Mavens' impactful stories.
Discover
Discover
To gain insight into the opinions of established and prospective users of the current website with emphasis on the newsfeed and the incorporating AI powered content.
To gain insight into the opinions of established and prospective users of the current website with emphasis on the newsfeed and the incorporating AI powered content.
Strengths:
-Centralized Media Hub
-Intuitive Content Filters
-Engaging Suggestion Posts
Areas for Improvement:
-Diverse Interaction Methods
-Information Control
-Streamlined Content Volume
-Personalized Content Curation
-AI Integration for Enhanced Interactivity
Strengths:
-Centralized Media Hub
-Intuitive Content Filters
-Engaging Suggestion Posts
Areas for Improvement:
-Diverse Interaction Methods
-Information Control
-Streamlined Content Volume
-Personalized Content Curation
-AI Integration for Enhanced Interactivity
User Interviews
User Interviews
The interviews were structured in two segments:
A questionnaire to understand users' social media habits, goals, and AI usage. And presenting our initial impressions of Marble Collective's Handoff file.
The interviews were structured in two segments:
A questionnaire to understand users' social media habits, goals, and AI usage. And presenting our initial impressions of Marble Collective's Handoff file.
5 MAVENS
&
3 PATRONS
5 MAVENS
&
3 PATRONS
“I like to find information quickly”
“I like visuals that grab my attention”
"I like when AI assists me in my daily life”
"I like to control what content I’m consuming”
"I like to know their journey: highs and lows”
“I like to find information quickly”
“I like visuals that grab my attention”
"I like when AI assists me in my daily life”
"I like to control what content I’m consuming”
"I like to know their journey: highs and lows”
“I like to find information quickly”
“I like visuals that grab my attention”
"I like when AI assists me in my daily life”
"I like to control what content I’m consuming”
"I like to know their journey: highs and lows”
“Daily inspirations from diverse individuals fuels my drive to better myself and pursue my goals.”
Behaviors: Navigating platforms with the intent of learning and seeking inspiration from individuals who excel in their respective fields.
Goals: Seeks mentorship, values inspiring journeys, prioritizes efficiency, enjoys visual content, desires curation, and finds fulfillment in insightful discussions.
Needs: Building connections and feeling inspired with efficient information access, visually captivating content, and content curation from influential figures that contribute to her personal and professional growth.
Behaviors: Navigating platforms with the intent of learning and seeking inspiration from individuals who excel in their respective fields.
Goals: Seeks mentorship, values inspiring journeys, prioritizes efficiency, enjoys visual content, desires curation, and finds fulfillment in insightful discussions.
Needs: Building connections and feeling inspired with efficient information access, visually captivating content, and content curation from influential figures that contribute to her personal and professional growth.
This accumulation of observations and insights have led us to articulate the following problem statement:
“Daily inspirations from diverse individuals fuels my drive to better myself and pursue my goals.”
Problem Statement
Problem Statement
Sarah seeks efficient access to information that will promote her personal and professional growth, satisfy her curiosity, inspire her, and keep her informed about the opinions of thought leaders worldwide
In addressing this challenge, we explored various ideas to solve it:
Sarah seeks efficient access to information that will promote her personal and professional growth, satisfy her curiosity, inspire her, and keep her informed about the opinions of thought leaders worldwide
In addressing this challenge, we explored various ideas to solve it:
How Might We…
How Might We…
HMW implement AI-driven content, curation and recommendation systems to streamline Sarah's access to relevant information, enabling her to swiftly find and manage content aligned with her interests and goals, thus simplifying her daily life?
HMW facilitate Sarah's connections with influential individuals beyond their professional personas, fostering deeper and more meaningful engagements?
HMW empower Sarah to maintain control over the information she consumes, ensuring she is in command of her content consumption experience?
HMW design a newsfeed that is not only aesthetically pleasing but also allows Sarah to effortlessly scan information?
HMW create an interactive newsfeed that keeps Sarah engaged with the content?
HMW implement AI-driven content, curation and recommendation systems to streamline Sarah's access to relevant information, enabling her to swiftly find and manage content aligned with her interests and goals, thus simplifying her daily life?
HMW facilitate Sarah's connections with influential individuals beyond their professional personas, fostering deeper and more meaningful engagements?
HMW empower Sarah to maintain control over the information she consumes, ensuring she is in command of her content consumption experience?
HMW design a newsfeed that is not only aesthetically pleasing but also allows Sarah to effortlessly scan information?
HMW create an interactive newsfeed that keeps Sarah engaged with the content?
User Flow
User Flow
Goal: Enhance User Engagement and Efficiency
Goal: Enhance User Engagement and Efficiency
Embark on an exploration of our first transformation
View Here
New
Old
New
New
We transitioned from a dynamic and shifting grid pattern to a more structured, aligned, and stable layout. This intentional change aims to bring order to the newsfeed, offering users a visually cohesive and harmonious experience while allowing them to easily scan and digest information.
Acknowledging diverse user preferences, with some finding the content density overwhelming and others comfortable with it, we deemed it essential to allow users to customize their feed view, giving flexibility between a wide and focused view.
We incorporated a universal filter icon to maintain familiarity for users as they become accustomed to the AI capabilities, aligning with common website practices.
We introduced an AI-driven content curation tool, streamlining users' ability to search, filter and customize their content viewing based on their preferences, addressing the need for quicker information gathering.
New
Old
Old
We relocated Collections, My Library, and Luminaries to the top of the page to enhance accessibility and offer a clear global navigation view, ensuring easy access. We also simplified the search button icon at the top of the page, creating space for navigation features by relocating the search function.
We refined the content cards to optimize information scanning by users. By introducing a hierarchy that places article titles at the top and incorporating a secondary element below, we added an accent color to signify when a maven comments on the content.
On the "Articles" pages, we noted a trend where some users wanted to summarize articles. Thats why we introduced an AI-driven assistant to facilitate a more streamlined content digestion experience for users.
Old
We refined the content cards to optimize information scanning by users. By introducing a hierarchy that places article titles at the top and incorporating a secondary element below, we added an accent color to signify when a maven comments on the content.
We incorporated a universal filter icon to maintain familiarity for users as they become accustomed to the AI capabilities, aligning with common website practices.
We introduced an AI-driven content curation tool, streamlining users' ability to search, filter and customize their content viewing based on their preferences, addressing the need for quicker information gathering.
We transitioned from a dynamic and shifting grid pattern to a more structured, aligned, and stable layout. This intentional change aims to bring order to the newsfeed, offering users a visually cohesive and harmonious experience while allowing them to easily scan and digest information.
On the "Articles" pages, we noted a trend where some users wanted to summarize articles. Thats why we introduced an AI-driven assistant to facilitate a more streamlined content digestion experience for users.
Putting our designs to the test
Two Mavens & Two Patrons
Users successfully completed 4 out of 5 tasks
They appreciated the AI integration, appealing visual design, and the option to view one article at a time
We received positive feedback on the AI summary feature on the article page
We identified a common challenge: difficulty locating the AI Search on the feed
Acknowledging this insight, the team dedicated the final sprint to updating designs and addressing the specific user concerns
Two Mavens & Two Patrons
Let's dive into our updated designs
Let's dive into our updated designs
Newsfeed
The global navigation has been relocated to the banner area, accompanied by a redesign of each section.
We took the decision to change "Collections, Libraries, and Luminaries" to "My Feed Discover, Maven, and Events" which alleviates user confusion, providing a clearer distinction between feed sections.
To enhance visual appeal, the emphasis on Mavens has been heightened, replacing static Maven images in the banner. This adjustment was informed by user feedback, indicating a higher level of excitement around the Mavens.
Responding to user demand, a new Events section has been introduced. Particularly driven by Mavens' enthusiasm to discover and connect with fellow Mavens in person. This addition serves as a platform to quickly find and engage in local events.
The Marble AI Smart Search underwent crucial refinements based on user feedback. To address confusion, the blue color was removed, and the Search Icon was relocated into the smart search field. This intuitive adjustment aims to streamline the user experience, aligning with observed user behaviors during usability testing.
Newsfeed
The global navigation has been relocated to the banner area, accompanied by a redesign of each section.
We took the decision to change "Collections, Libraries, and Luminaries" to "My Feed Discover, Maven, and Events" which alleviates user confusion, providing a clearer distinction between feed sections.
To enhance visual appeal, the emphasis on Mavens has been heightened, replacing static Maven images in the banner. This adjustment was informed by user feedback, indicating a higher level of excitement around the Mavens.
Responding to user demand, a new Events section has been introduced. Particularly driven by Mavens' enthusiasm to discover and connect with fellow Mavens in person. This addition serves as a platform to quickly find and engage in local events.
The Marble AI Smart Search underwent crucial refinements based on user feedback. To address confusion, the blue color was removed, and the Search Icon was relocated into the smart search field. This intuitive adjustment aims to streamline the user experience, aligning with observed user behaviors during usability testing.
Furthermore, as part of our second iteration, we improved the filter button to facilitate content filtering for users.
We expanded sharing capabilities, enabling users to seamlessly share content with others.
Also, we incorporated labels for "Inspired", "Comments" and "Save", visible upon hovering over the respective icons. This clarification reduces user confusion about the icons, ensuring a clear understanding of each icon's function.
Furthermore, as part of our second iteration, we improved the filter button to facilitate content filtering for users.
We expanded sharing capabilities, enabling users to seamlessly share content with others.
Also, we incorporated labels for "Inspired", "Comments" and "Save", visible upon hovering over the respective icons. This clarification reduces user confusion about the icons, ensuring a clear understanding of each icon's function.
Article Page
We opted to lighten the Marble Smart Summary, aligning it with the visual consistency of our other AI components.
We introduced the "Collapse" button, providing users the flexibility to hide comments.
We integrated a speaker feature, allowing users to play the AI summary out loud.
We implemented the ability to ask the AI to condense the summary in a chat format.
Article Page
We opted to lighten the Marble Smart Summary, aligning it with the visual consistency of our other AI components.
We introduced the "Collapse" button, providing users the flexibility to hide comments.
We integrated a speaker feature, allowing users to play the AI summary out loud.
We implemented the ability to ask the AI to condense the summary in a chat format.
AI for preferences
Speaker feature
Lightened
the Smart
Summary
Collapse Button
AI for preferences
Speaker feature
Hover to view
“Inspired”
Global Navigation
Emphasis on Mavens
Global Navigation
Emphasis on Mavens
Added Events
Moved Search Icon
Moved Search Icon
Updated AI Search
Updated AI Search
Hover to view
“Inspired”
Delivery
Delivery
Home Page
Focus View
Article
Home Page
Focus View
Article
Home Page
Focus View
Article
Home Page
Focus View
Article
Interact with our Prototype
View Here
Home Page
Focus View
Article
Home Page
Focus View
Article
Home Page
Focus View
Article
Home Page
Focus View
Article
In the upcoming phases, should the opportunity for further collaboration arise, we aspire to actualize the following UX-focused initiatives:
Maven-to-Maven Messaging Enhancement:
Responding to user feedback, we propose the implementation of an option allowing users to decide where their comments land—either directly on the post or routed to their Marble inbox—providing a more tailored commenting experience.
Events Showcase Development:
Aiming to elevate user engagement, we plan to develop a dedicated events section, equipped with location and industry filters, to seamlessly highlight all Maven-related gatherings.
Advancements in AI Capabilities:
Recognizing the transformative potential of AI, our vision includes conducting extensive usability testing to enhance user-friendliness. Additionally, we explore AI as an assistive tool to further elevate the overall user experience.
Maven Profile Enhancement:
Envisioning a more comprehensive profile experience for Mavens, we propose building out events and introducing a content hierarchy that distinguishes between professional and personal aspects. This includes showcasing career highlights, both highs and lows, and sharing valuable lessons learned along their journey.
In the upcoming phases, should the opportunity for further collaboration arise, we aspire to actualize the following UX-focused initiatives:
Maven-to-Maven Messaging Enhancement:
Responding to user feedback, we propose the implementation of an option allowing users to decide where their comments land—either directly on the post or routed to their Marble inbox—providing a more tailored commenting experience.
Events Showcase Development:
Aiming to elevate user engagement, we plan to develop a dedicated events section, equipped with location and industry filters, to seamlessly highlight all Maven-related gatherings.
Advancements in AI Capabilities:
Recognizing the transformative potential of AI, our vision includes conducting extensive usability testing to enhance user-friendliness. Additionally, we explore AI as an assistive tool to further elevate the overall user experience.
Maven Profile Enhancement:
Envisioning a more comprehensive profile experience for Mavens, we propose building out events and introducing a content hierarchy that distinguishes between professional and personal aspects. This includes showcasing career highlights, both highs and lows, and sharing valuable lessons learned along their journey.
Empower Her Insights: A Journey Into Women's Leather
We collaborated with , a company dedicated to refining and elevating their design. Our goal is to enhance the visual aspects and cultivate a platform that fosters connections among influential women, while simultaneously inspiring individuals by highlighting their impactful work.