Assignment: Design an engaging experience in Figma

Project Overview

The project aimed too deepen and develop my individual skills and competences using a self-selected tool and methodology.

By immersing myself in cultural probes, I sought insight into how user testing could be forward-thinking and serve as an inspirational method. This, combined with my exploration of Figma’s capabilities and limitations, led me to create my own assignment:

Design an interactive screen for an exhibition, with a focus on implementing principles of emotional design.

My Design Process

I initiated the assignment by distributing cultural probes to individuals aged 40-55 in long-term relationships, igniting inspiration for an interactive screen exhibition.

Drawing insights from the probe responses, I explored enhancing user engagement through the creation of movable on-screen objects and innovative menu placements.

Throughout the iterative design process, I conducted guerilla tests and implemented Think Aloud protocols to uncover user preferences. Guided by the results of these user tests and emotional design principles, I crafted a captivating exhibition screen while deepening my understanding of both cultural probes and Figma.

Creating and distributing a Cultural Probe

I developed a cultural probe in both a physical and a digital format. The probes included tasks encouraging personal interpretation such as:

  • Question cards promoting exploration and reflection

  • Either/or cards to explore preferences and decision-making processes

  • Life ranked priorities

  • A photo challenge to express thoughts visually

Analysis of my cultural probe:

Throughout, prioritization and the source of happiness consistently revolved around the company of loved ones.

Activities such as gaming, outings featuring new experiences, and concerts emerged as favored choices for dates.

Exploration of functions in Figma and innovative design layout

While waiting for the probes to be returned, I explored the enhancing user ownership by creating the illusion of movable on-screen objects in Figma.

I also developed various design proposals and conducted guerilla testing to gather user insights. The majority of users expressed a preference for the circular menu proposal.

Refinement of Design Concept and Iterative Testing

Building upon the results of guerilla testing, I proceeded to refine the circular menu system. However, uncertainty surrounded the blue color scheme, prompting me to experiment with various background images and colors. Concurrently, I also conducted experiments with headlines and explored different subjects to determine the focus of the screen.

This comprehensive approach led to further user testing, incorporating Think Aloud protocols and A/B testing methodologies. The outcome was clear - the blue design with me as the subject was preferred, although the headlines remained unclear.

Final design proposal

Final reflections

After an iterative design process with lots of feedback from users, the result was an interactive screen with cohesive design, a touch of humor, and a wow factor.

Above all, this experience has opened my eyes to the immersive potential that Figma holds. I realize that I have only scratched the surface of its capabilities and that there is much more to learn and discover. With each new design project that lies ahead of me, I look forward to pushing my boundaries and letting creativity flow in Figma’s enchanting world.