The Problem

The City Pups website helps urban users find dogs to adopt. Many websites do not provide enough information and/or limited photos for each animal. This creates a feeling of distrust between the user and the adoption website. How do we help users find the right dog to adopt? 

The Solution

Initial research led me to focus on a search filter function that would immediately screen for dog’s that would match the users criteria. From this point, I focused on how the user would see the dog’s profile photos and information. My big design challenge was figuring out how to present as much information about each dog with photos and video in a seamless design display.

My Role

In this solo 5-day design sprint, the research was provided. My role included synthesizing the research and user interviews, creating a user flow, sketching and storyboarding, UI design, rapid prototyping and usability testing. 

Day 1 Research & Interviews

After analyzing the personas and data provided, I found that many users relied heavily on profile photos and videos followed by initial information of the dog. This creates an initial emotional connection. The dog’s information and biography become important right after the user is drawn to a photo.

Users have different living situations and are looking for different traits within a dog therefore profiles need to be thorough and photos/videos accurate.

Day 2: Sketching

After analyzing other websites with search filter functions and profile thumbnails, I was able to better understand search filters and how people scroll through thumbnails. I was inspired by the experience of scrolling through movies on Netflix and how users preview movies quickly. I sketched some ideas based on the Crazy Eights Design Sprint Method. 

Day 3 Decide & Create Storyboard

These three elements would allow the user to narrow down the field and present the dogs that fit within the user’s criteria while allowing the user to feel in control of the experience. 

1. The search filters
2. Access to customer service
3. Profile display

I chose to visually create a grid system layout in order to present the dog profiles because the interviews and personas described how much users liked looking at photos and videos of the dogs. I felt this needed to be an important UI and UX element to the experience.

Day 4 Rapid Prototyping

I wanted the prototype to be clean and minimal while engaging the user. I wanted the experience to be straight forward and provide the user with information and photos in order to create an emotional connection with the dogs.

Day 5 Usability Testing

I conducted five usability tests within a short timeframe by phone or Facetime. Feedback was overall positive and users were able to successfully work through the process of searching for a dog.

• One user pointed out that there was no way to return to the dogs profiles once they clicked on a dog profile so I incorporated a back button and access to the Home Page in the navigation bar at all times.

• I also added a search icon in the navigation bar for user’s that might want to expedite the process.

• Another user pointed out that they may want to ask questions about a dog so I added a call to action under the Adopt button.
  
  Overall the users enjoyed the uncomplicated experience and clean design.