In Summary...
We identified users’ challenges and needs through exploratory research and past findings. I conducted a system analysis and heuristic evaluation of the Portfolio tool, gaining a clear understanding of its use cases and constraints while uncovering usability issues.
Then I dig deep into competitive analysis, learning about all possible file-folder experience that exists so that we are not reinventing the wheel.
We faced challenges in choosing between Google Drive and Apple photo albums. Our research identified two key user needs that align well with the photo album approach, and further findings are informing our design direction, which I won’t detail now.
And of course, there are many many rounds of iteration to define the design and interaction. I explored different methods to organize the collection to enhance beyond a standard folder design. We want users to view their work details, add notes, and see instructors’ comments.
The result is very well received! We heard some great feedback from usability testing participants like:
“It's very interesting and it makes a lot of sense I think for English class, not just for English class, I am also thinking about AP class that focus on portfolio all year. This is a good system for this reason.”
“I liked it. It's one of those thing that I always wanted to learn to use portfolio a bit more, because its a useful tool , the whole idea of a collection and being able to sort so if I am thinking for history, evidence of historical significance...”
