App Design
Create a simple tracking app
In 2017 after completing an overhaul of the HMR digital brand, I was tasked with creating an app that would be used as a companion to the program. This app should be visually cohesive, simple to use, allow for tracking program principles, and provide valuable feedback to users. The mission was to create an MVP that could eventually deliver digital coaching to the 70% of users who want to diet on their own. I was the primary UX designer and the sole UI designer.
App design process
To make our app successful, we needed a robust design process that really worked. The first thing that differentiates a good app from a bad one is the user experience so having a process to follow is critical.
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Strategize
- Strategize with stakeholders to set objectives, user demands and requirements. Define
- Define and create the information architecture for a user centered design. Wireframe
- Wireframe and design interactions and flows with OS-specific guidelines, and prototype for testing. UI Design
- UI design for all screens and elements. Define color palette and typography. Deliver
- Deliverable handoff of high-fidelity screen flow, exported graphics and design specifications.
Strategize, define architecture
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Steps taken
- Interview coaches for all data requirements to facilitate coaching in group settings.
- Current user interviews designed to capture demands and expectations for this user centered app.
- Stakeholder input on business requirements.
- Analysis of competitor apps.
- Create an app architecture that satisfies findings.
Number one concern for users — simplicity
Tracker screen only shows the items you need to track on your diet plan
When your plan minimums are reached the item bar turns green for success
Plus and minus touch icons are easy to understand and tap
Using the track screen as the home screen makes tracking a tap away
Tap through past days or use a scroller to look at a certain days
Use the note icon to take any relevant notes about the day
Applied learnings to high fidelity
After testing we found some things that were a bit too complicated. Users wanted simple tracking and simple data visualization. I addressed those issues and streamlined our MVP to meet the users needs.
HMR Program companion App and Tracker
This all-in-one diet and exercise tracker now connected all of our online resources to one platform giving both clinic‐based and at‐home members access to new digital content. Members could track program behaviors, get feedback, set goals, and receive targeted coaching to help them achieve their weight‐loss goals. Coaches received streamlined data to personalize the member experience. Furthermore, data aggregation would help refine the program's delivery to improve member compliance. This iOS and Android MVP was designed to allow for future enhancements and eventually full scale virtual coaching.
