Falae
Chat App
Introduction
The chat app "Falae" was developed with the goal of solving common problems users face in conventional chat apps. The main focus of the project is to enhance the user experience (UX) and user interface (UI), providing a more intuitive, efficient, and pleasant communication experience.
Research
To start the project, extensive user research was conducted to better understand the issues faced by users in existing chat apps. Interviews with current users, competitor analysis, and feedback from beta users were conducted. The main problems identified were:
a) Difficulty in finding and accessing relevant contacts.
b) Confusion caused by disorganized and unintuitive interfaces.
c) Limitations in customization and expression of emotions during conversations.
d) Difficulties in finding and managing old messages.
e) Lack of features to facilitate the organization of group chats.
f) Language barriers in conversations with people who speak different languages.
User Experience
In addition to the user interface, Falae was designed to improve the overall user experience by addressing the issues identified during the research:
a) Automatic language detection: The app uses language recognition technology to automatically detect the language used by the user and provide real-time translations, helping to overcome language barriers.
b) Enhanced search features: Users can easily search by keywords and filter conversations by date, sender, or other criteria, making it easier to find old messages or important information.
c) Expression features: Falae offers a wide range of emojis, stickers, and custom reactions for users to express their emotions during conversations, adding an extra dimension to communication.
d) Smart notifications: The app uses smart push notifications to alert users about important messages or specific people, avoiding information overload and ensuring that relevant messages are quickly viewed.
e) Cross-platform synchronization: Falae allows users to access their conversations on different devices, automatically syncing messages, contacts, and settings, ensuring a seamless experience.
Personas
Sofia - Business Professional
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Age: 32 years
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Goal: Communicate efficiently and professionally with colleagues.
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Needs: Collaboration features, integration with productivity tools, and information security.
Lucas - University Student
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Age: 21 years
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Goal: Stay in touch with friends and organize study groups.
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Needs: Intuitive interface, customization features, and media sharing.
Benchmarking
To start the design process of "Falae," we conducted a competitive analysis of other popular chat apps, such as WhatsApp, Telegram, and Messenger. In this benchmarking, we studied their interfaces, features, user flows, and user feedback. The goal was to identify the strengths and weaknesses of these apps, as well as to find opportunities for improvement and innovation.
Competitor identification: At the beginning of the benchmarking process, we identified the main competitors of "Falae" in the chat app market. In this case, we selected WhatsApp, Telegram, and Messenger as relevant references, as they are widely used and have a significant user base.
Interface analysis: We analyzed the interfaces of competitor apps, observing elements such as element placement, navigation structure, icon style, and visual hierarchy. This analysis allowed us to identify common design patterns and understand user expectations regarding a chat app.
Feature exploration: We examined the features offered by competitors, such as voice calls, video calls, media sharing, emojis, integration with other platforms, among others. This helped us identify popular features and find possible differentiation opportunities for "Falae."
Usability evaluation: We conducted usability tests on competitor apps, inviting users to perform specific tasks and observing their interactions and feedback. We observed ease of use, interaction efficiency, message clarity, and overall user satisfaction. This analysis helped us identify strengths and weaknesses in existing apps.
User feedback analysis: In addition to usability evaluation, we also researched opinions and comments from real users about competitor apps. We explored reviews in app stores, discussion forums, and social media to understand users' needs, frustrations, and desires regarding chat apps.
User Interface
Based on user research, the Falae design team developed a clean, modern, and intuitive user interface with the following features:
a) Minimalist design: The interface was designed to be simple and clean, with a well-structured layout and use of white space to improve readability and focus on conversations.
b) Simplified navigation: A bottom navigation bar was implemented to facilitate quick access to main features, such as contacts, recent chats, and settings.
c) Advanced contact search: Users can search for contacts by name, phone number, or nickname, making it easier to locate and quickly access specific conversations.
d) Chat organization: Chats are grouped into tabs, allowing users to easily switch between individual and group conversations.
e) Themes and customization: Users can choose from a variety of themes and customize the app's appearance according to their preferences.
User Testing
Objective
Ensure the platform is intuitive, engaging, and effective in teaching cybersecurity awareness.
Participants
A mix of end users (non-technical staff) and administrators (IT staff).
Methodology
Usability testing sessions, followed by surveys and interviews.
Key Findings:
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Users found the platform easy to navigate and engaging.
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Administrators appreciated the detailed dashboards and reporting features.
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Simulated phishing exercises were particularly effective in reinforcing learning.
Design Process
Research
We conducted research with potential users to understand their needs, preferences, and expectations regarding a chat app. Usability tests were also conducted to evaluate the efficiency and usability of the proposed design.
User flow
Based on the information collected during the research, we created detailed user flows for each persona, mapping all possible interactions and scenarios in the app.
Wireframing
We used wireframing tools to create sketches of the main screens and navigation flows of the app, ensuring the correct organization and hierarchy of information.
Prototyping
High-fidelity interactive prototypes were created to simulate the user experience in "Falae." These prototypes were tested with real users to obtain valuable feedback and iterate on the design.
Visual Design
We applied the visual design based on the developed design system, incorporating the color palette, typography, icons, and custom components. We aimed to create an attractive, intuitive, and accessible interface for users.
Development
We worked closely with the development team to ensure that the design was correctly implemented, maintaining visual and interaction integrity.
Conclusion
The chat app Falae was developed with the goal of improving the user experience compared to traditional chat apps. Through comprehensive user research, intuitive interface design, and enhanced features, Falae addressed common user issues, providing more efficient, customizable, and enjoyable communication. Through continuous testing and iterations, Falae continues to improve its UI/UX to ensure user satisfaction.