IMPROVING INTERFACES

Whether it’s updating an existing interface or designing a new one, I relish the challenge of finding a balance among utility, simplicity and pleasing aesthetics. Below are two examples of interfaces I designed. Some of these designs are concepts others are prototypes along the design process and others have been fully implemented. My process for user experience design involves deep research and understanding of the users, frequent and fast prototyping and detailed design of both static files and interactive front–end code.

2015 | Utah

How does this poster influence Kenyans?

Headline: Swahili communicates more clearly to lower economic consumers.

Color: Most water companies in Kenya have dark blue brand colors. Using cyan allowed Bamba to standout.

Demo: Showing the product in use helps connect the dots for consumers who are new to the product.

Bold: Our testing revealed that Kenyans respond more positively to logos with a bold type.

Price Setting: In informal markets prices are often negotiable. Including the price helps consumers avoid being over charged.

Certification: Using the KEBS mark is essential to building trust in a market full of pirate products.

Status: Our model appears African rather than African–American according to research. She also holds a smart phone as a symbol of status.

BUILDING ON CULTURE

Catch phrases or “mistarti,” such as one in red type, are very popular in Kenya. These stickers adorn shops, cars, and homes and the phrases are frequently repeated. After picking up on this cultural phenomenon we developed some of our own and posted them throughout the city. Because of our clever headlines matatu and boda boda drivers were pleased to decorate their vehicles with them.