Competitive Analysis Findings
The most comparable competitor is a UK-based IBD app (shown below). While the concept of the UK app is excellent, and its partnership with Crohn’s and Colitis UK is commendable, the execution falls short. This presents an opportunity in the market to develop a product that is comprehensive, inclusive, engaging, and highly functional, with a beautifully designed interface.
User Journey Maps
(one example)
Design Language System
Mission Statement
Logo
Typography
Colors
Grids
Common UI Components
Interactions
Animations
Tagline and Voice
Mascot
Task Analysis and User Flow
User stories, task analyses, and user flows were defined and outlined to ensure users could complete tasks (one example is below).
UC and Wellness App
Design a responsive health and wellbeing portal that is exclusively for people living with ulcerative colitis (UC). Empower these individuals to self-manage their disease with ease and confidence, while lighting (or sustaining) the path to clinical remission.
Lighting the path to wellness
Lighting the path to wellness
My RoLE
Design For
Project type
Duration
UX / UI Designer
6 months
Responsive Web App
UX Immersive
Primary Tools
Figma, Optimal Workshop, Illustrator,
Photoshop, InDesign
Objective
research
I defined my research goals and methods, and performed user research to empathize with users and better understand behaviors, needs, motivations, and pain points.
Better understand user behavior around the disease of ulcerative colitis
UC Behavior
Understand how users keep track of symptoms and medical information
Tracking Symptoms
Understand the wellness activities that users need
Wellness Activities
Determine the features users find most helpful in a health/wellness app
Desired Features
Research Goals
Research Methods
analyze
I collected and sorted the data from my research to gain valuable insights that helped me make informed, user-centric design decisions.
I collected and sorted the data from my research to gain valuable insights that helped me make informed,
user-centric design decisions.
synthesize
Based on my research findings, I created three personas, all at different stages of their journey with UC. The personas capture user motivations, goals, and challenges, fostering empathy. Additionally, I developed a problem statement.
Based on my research findings,
I created three personas, all at different stages of their journey with UC. The personas capture user motivations, goals, and challenges, fostering empathy. Additionally,
I developed a problem statement.
User Personas
(one example)
Problem Statement
People who have ulcerative colitis need a way to simplify and manage their health and wellbeing because they want to feel in control of their disease, their overall health, and empowered to reach (or sustain) clinical remission. We will know this to be true when we see that people with ulcerative colitis are able to successfully track their symptoms and progress, better understand their disease, and are able to provide detailed information to their doctors—all of which guides them to reach (or sustain) clinical remission and live confident, fuller lives.
strategy
Fostering an emotional connection with the target audience is an effective strategy for enhancing user engagement and cultivating a meaningful experience. To achieve this, I introduced Coco the Colon cat.
—Coco
Hi! I'm Coco the Colon cat, your animated mascot bringing pawsitivity to the UC and Wellness brand. With my GI-shaped tail and purr-ple UC ribbon, I embody the spirit of support for those navigating ulcerative colitis. I'm here to lend a paw because I get it—sometimes you just need a furry friend who understands. Not only am I your emotional companion, but I also moonlight as your helpful guide. Give me a little "pet," and I'll whisker up solutions to any user hiccups. Mary brought me to life with her purr-fect conceptualization, design, and animation skills in Figma.
ideate
During a brainstorming (ideation) session, I sketched rough concepts and iterations for the app based on my research data and emotional strategy.
architect
After the ideation session, I narrowed my concepts into a possible design solution and developed the site plan. I used card sorting to refine my thoughts.
Card Sorting Sessions
I held open card sorting sessions, which were unmoderated and remote, and I also held a closed card sorting session in-person, moderated. Participants were asked to organize 20 cards into categories that made the most sense to them. My goal was to find patterns that illustrated the most logical and user-friendly way to organize the structure of the app, as well as to validate a hypothesized categorization.
Initial Site Map
The site map below was implemented for the first round of usability testing. After testing, the site map was modified to incorporate user feedback.
design
I brought the site map to life, starting with hand-drawn, low-fidelity wireframes and progressed to mid-fidelity wireframes and interactive prototypes using Figma.
Low-fidelity Wireframes
Mid-fidelity Wireframes
usability testing
The usability study aimed to evaluate the app's learnability, gauge the app's value, assess users' comprehension of the project, and determine users' ability to successfully complete specific tasks.
Overview of my Usability Test Process
Overview of my Usability Test Process
Created an informed
consent form
Recruited
participants
Selected test
methods
Developed a test plan
and test script
Conducted
the tests
Analyzed test
results for insights
Created a usability
test report
Made improvements
to the prototype
Analysis of Test Results
Test participants were color-coded to keep track of their feedback. An affinity map was created to sort the data into errors, positive comments, negative comments, and observations.
Michael
Taylor
Katherine
Teresa
Morgan
Monica
Kirk
“I really love the ‘exercise’ and ‘learn’ buttons up here because it’s right under the tab and really easy to notice.”
“I really love the ‘exercise’ and ‘learn’ buttons up here because it’s right under the tab and really easy to notice.”
“I don’t think I realized to click on the logo to go home.”
“Having all this stuff [trackers and medical records] in one place is really helpful.”
“I’m not overwhelmed with a bunch of stuff on the screen that I don’t understand.”
“I’m not overwhelmed with a bunch of stuff on the screen that I don’t understand.”
“I like having the calendar right there. It’s easy to access.”
“Explore means to explore all the different features within the app.”
“Until I sort of knew the navigation, I would tap on ‘explore’ to bring up a table of contents.”
“It’s nice because in literally one or two clicks, I’m finding out the stuff that I need.”
“The submenu is clear to me because of the way it’s set up. It’s easy.”
“The submenu is clear to me because of the way it’s set up. It’s easy.”
Errors
Positive Comments
Observations
Usability Test Insights
A rainbow spread sheet was used to rate and evaluate participants’ feedback using Jacob Neilson’s scale. After the rainbow spread sheet, I created a usability test report.
Improvements
Mid-fidelity Prototype
Revised Mid-fidelity Prototype
Improvements to the revised prototype include: a way to return home and updated navigation. More testing and iterations followed, and the site map and user flows were updated to reflect these changes.
(Home screen improvements—one example)
design system
Vibrant, clean, simple, thoughtful, friendly, and helpful are just a few of the words that shape the voice, tone, and feel of the design language system.
interactive design
Coco’s animation sets the tone of the app. From getting rolled with toilet paper, to his subtle tail movements and slow blinks, his humor, compassion, and friendliness lighten and lift the user experience.
high-fidelity design
The polished design exudes vibrancy and positivity, and it’s tailored to support users at any stage of their journey with ulcerative colitis, reflecting a holistic approach.
Mobile, High-fidelity Designs
walkthrough
Experience a walkthrough of the UC and Wellness app! This prototype walks through three tasks that fulfill the needs and goals of our persona, Elle.
Retrospective
What I enjoyed most about this case study was creating a holistic design—a one-stop app for everything pertaining to ulcerative colitis. I especially enjoyed developing the emotional strategy, Coco the Colon Cat, and bringing him to life. The greatest challenge was finding the right balance of content—to keep the mobile design clean and simple, while ensuring the desktop design looked full and substantial. I achieved this balance by organizing the content clearly and concisely, based on user feedback. If I were starting from scratch, I would rethink the calendar section at the top of the home screen to figure out a way to get more content above the fold (especially for the desktop and tablet designs). From a UI perspective, I would work on the colors a little more—dialing a few of them down to keep the emphasis on purple. As a next step, I would test the prototype again to ensure the latest round of revisions work well with the target audience.
What I enjoyed most about this case study was creating a holistic design—a one-stop app for everything pertaining to ulcerative colitis. I especially enjoyed developing the emotional strategy, Coco the Colon Cat, and bringing him to life. The greatest challenge was finding the right balance of content—to keep the mobile design clean and simple, while ensuring the desktop design looked full and substantial. I achieved this balance by organizing the content clearly and concisely, based on user feedback. If I were starting from scratch, I would rethink the calendar section at the top of the home screen to figure out a way to get more content above the fold (especially for the desktop and tablet designs). From a UI perspective, I would work on the colors a little more—dialing a few of them down to keep the emphasis on purple. As a next step, I would test the prototype again to ensure the latest round of revisions work well with the target audience.
What I enjoyed most about this case study was creating a holistic design—a one-stop app for everything pertaining to ulcerative colitis. I especially enjoyed developing the emotional strategy, Coco the Colon Cat, and bringing him to life. The greatest challenge was finding the right balance of content—to keep the mobile design clean and simple, while ensuring the desktop design looked full and substantial. I achieved this balance by organizing the content clearly and concisely, based on user feedback. If I were starting from scratch, I would rethink the calendar section at the top of the home screen to figure out a way to get more content above the fold (especially for the desktop and tablet designs). From a UI perspective, I would work on the colors a little more—dialing a few of them down to keep the emphasis on purple. As a next step, I would test the prototype again to ensure the latest round of revisions work well with the target audience.
#593DE6
#6B47F
#3712A0
#7F1EE5
#AD14BD
#FDCA00
#F8F7F7
#000000
#FFFFFF
Colors were divided into primary, secondary, and neutrals. Purple is the primary color because it represents the disease of ulcerative colitis.
Typography
Iconography
Common UI Components
Graphic Shapes
Instead of showing a lot of photos on the app, which can be challenging for the topic of ulcerative colitis, I chose to incorporate shapes and colors. The organic shapes symbolize the inside of a colon—the tissue and tunneling of the colon. The colors support the overall brand.
Design Language System
Mission Statement
Logo
Typography
Colors
Grids
Common UI Components
Interactions
Animations
Tagline and Voice
Mascot
An excerpt from the design language system is displayed below.
Card Sorting Insights
The card sorting sessions identified ways to cluster information for a streamlined site map. This helped solidify the three primary benefits of the app—track, explore, and connect.
Keep track of symptoms, diet, and medical records in one place, and share insights with doctors.
Track
Learn more about UC from leading experts, and build healthy habits with exercise activities.
Explore
Get personalized support from UC Coaches and feel connected to the UC and Wellness community.
Connect
Research Details
Ulcerative colitis is a life-long, inflammatory gastrointestinal disease that affects people of all ages, and can lead to additional health conditions—all of which need management. It’s classified as an irritable bowel disease (IBD), and in the same family as Crohn’s Disease.
What is ulceartive colitis?
Competitive and Comparative Alayses
I researched some of the top irritable bowel disease (IBD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) apps (shown below) to better understand the competition. I also performed a comparative analysis, which included apps that focus on general health, nutrition, exercise, and habit tracking because these features may be included in this app.
My IBD Care
Zemedy
Plop
Cara Care
Bowelle
User Interviews
I conducted interviews with participants who have irritable bowel disease. Their experience with the disease ranged from a couple of years to more than a decade.
Open-ended
questions
Qualitative
insights
Six categories
of questions
Conducted in
person/Zoom
User Surveys
Some people are uncomfortable about openly discussing their experiences with IBD. Surveys allow anonymity, which can result in people feeling more open to disclosing their viewpoints and aspects of the disease.
10 Closed
questions
Quantitative
insights
Conducted via
SurveyMonkey
Shared on Facebook,
Reddit, Slack
Ulcerative colitis is a life-long, inflammatory gastrointestinal disease that affects people of all ages, and can lead to additional health conditions—all of which need management. It’s classified as an irritable bowel disease (IBD), and in the same family as Crohn’s Disease.
What is ulceartive colitis?
Competitive and Comparative Alayses
I researched some of the top irritable bowel disease (IBD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) apps (shown below) to better understand the competition. I also performed a comparative analysis, which included apps that focus on general health, nutrition, exercise, and habit tracking because these features may be included in this app.
My IBD Care
Zemedy
Plop
Cara Care
Bowelle
User Interviews
I conducted interviews with participants who have irritable bowel disease. Their experience with the disease ranged from a couple of years to more than a decade.
Open-ended
questionsQualitative
insightsSix categories
of questionsConducted in
person/ZoomUser Surveys
Some people are uncomfortable about openly discussing their experiences with IBD. Surveys allow anonymity, which can result in people feeling more open to disclosing their viewpoints and aspects of the disease.
10 Closed
questionsQuantitative
insightsConducted via
SurveyMonkeyShared on Facebook,
Reddit, SlackUlcerative colitis is a life-long, inflammatory gastrointestinal disease that affects people of all ages, and can lead to additional health conditions—all of which need management. It’s classified as an irritable bowel disease (IBD), and in the same family as Crohn’s Disease.
What is ulceartive colitis?
Competitive and Comparative Alayses
I researched some of the top irritable bowel disease (IBD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) apps (shown below) to better understand the competition. I also performed a comparative analysis, which included apps that focus on general health, nutrition, exercise, and habit tracking because these features may be included in this app.
My IBD Care
Zemedy
Plop
Cara Care
Bowelle
User Interviews
I conducted interviews with participants who have irritable bowel disease. Their experience with the disease ranged from a couple of years to more than a decade.
Open-ended
questionsQualitative
insightsSix categories
of questionsConducted in
person/ZoomUser Surveys
Some people are uncomfortable about openly discussing their experiences with IBD. Surveys allow anonymity, which can result in people feeling more open to disclosing their viewpoints and aspects of the disease.
10 Closed
questionsQuantitative
insightsConducted via
SurveyMonkeyShared on Facebook,
Reddit, SlackUlcerative colitis is a life-long, inflammatory gastrointestinal disease that affects people of all ages, and can lead to additional health conditions—all of which need management. It’s classified as an irritable bowel disease (IBD), and in the same family as Crohn’s Disease.
What is ulceartive colitis?
Competitive and Comparative Alayses
I researched some of the top irritable bowel disease (IBD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) apps (shown below) to better understand the competition. I also performed a comparative analysis, which included apps that focus on general health, nutrition, exercise, and habit tracking because these features may be included in this app.
My IBD Care
Zemedy
Plop
Cara Care
Bowelle
User Interviews
I conducted interviews with participants who have irritable bowel disease. Their experience with the disease ranged from a couple of years to more than a decade.
Open-ended
questionsQualitative
insightsSix categories
of questionsConducted in
person/ZoomUser Surveys
Some people are uncomfortable about openly discussing their experiences with IBD. Surveys allow anonymity, which can result in people feeling more open to disclosing their viewpoints and aspects of the disease.
10 Closed
questionsQuantitative
insightsConducted via
SurveyMonkeyShared on Facebook,
Reddit, Slack
Key insights from user interviews
User Interview Findings
I extracted informative quotes, behaviors and attitudes, needs and goals, frustrations and challenges, and facts and opinions for each participant. I sorted and mapped these findings into categories (an affinity map). This helped me to identify patterns and insights.
User Survey Findings
Interpreting the Survey Data
Key insights from the user survey
Which of the following features would you find most useful in a tool to help you manage ulcerative colitis?
Survey Question #1
Survey Data for #1
Survey Insight for #1
Survey participants believe these three features are important tools for self-managing UC.
Stool (or flare up)
symptom tracker
Calendar and note taking area
Setting reminders (appts, meds, etc.)
Quick Survey Statistics
have tracked their UC symptoms, or kept a food diary
90
Percent of participants
Percent of participants
rely on websites the most when seeking information about UC
rely on websites the most when seeking information about UC
80
Percent of participants
Percent of participants
organize their medical records through an online portal or app
organize their medical records through an online portal or app
40
Percent of participants
Percent of participants
70
Percent of participants
Percent of participants
would like a better way to organize their medical records
have tracked their UC symptoms, or kept a food diary
90
Percent of participants
rely on websites the most when seeking information about UC
80
Percent of participants
organize their medical records through an online portal or app
40
Percent of participants
70
Percent of participants
would like a better way to organize their medical records
have tracked their UC symptoms, or kept a food diary
90
Percent of participants
rely on websites the most when seeking information about UC
80
Percent of participants
organize their medical records through an online portal or app
40
Percent of participants
70
Percent of participants
would like a better way to organize their medical records
have tracked their UC symptoms, or kept a food diary
90
Percent of participants
rely on websites the most when seeking information about UC
80
Percent of participants
organize their medical records through an online portal or app
40
Percent of participants
70
Percent of participants
would like a better way to organize their medical records
have tracked their UC symptoms, or kept a food diary
90
Percent of participants
rely on websites the most when seeking information about UC
80
Percent of participants
organize their medical records through an online portal or app
40
Percent of participants
70
Percent of participants
would like a better way to organize their medical records
Missing doses of medication could create flare ups, so medication reminders would be helpful. Include doctor appointment reminders, so everything pertaining to UC stays in one place.
Calendar
Users are actively involved in taking care of themselves. They enjoy seeing measurable results from wellness activities. They also like having a way to connect with others who have UC.
Wellness
Provide the option to add and track symptoms of other conditions that arise from having UC, as well as diet. This creates a holistic approach to healthcare management.
Tracking
Affinity Map
I analyzed the survey data for findings and insights. An example of one of the user survey questions and its corresponding data is displayed below.
Subject Matter Research
Competitive
Analysis
User
Interviews
User
Surveys
Contextual Inquiry
Once in clinical remission, focus shifts from articles about ulcerative colitis to articles about new drugs, drug side effects, and secondary conditions that arise from having UC.
Resources
Ulcerative colitis and diet go hand-in-hand. Having a way to monitor what was eaten and when, noting any symptoms along the way, helps identify trigger foods that lead to flare ups.
Diet
Keep medical records in one place for easy access and organization. Provide a way to quickly pull up questions during a doctor visit. Privacy and security are crucial in this aspect to establish user trust.
Records
Participants reported that they need moral support—someone who understands their disease and makes them feel less alone.
Support
Closed card Sorting Session
© Mary Rose Design 2024
© Mary Rose Design 2024
© Mary Rose Design 2024
© Mary Rose Design 2024
Ulcerative colitis is a life-long, inflammatory gastrointestinal disease that affects people of all ages, and can lead to additional health conditions—all of which need management. It’s classified as an irritable bowel disease (IBD), and in the same family as Crohn’s Disease.
What is ulceartive colitis?
Competitive and Comparative Alayses
I researched some of the top irritable bowel disease (IBD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) apps (shown below) to better understand the competition. I also performed a comparative analysis, which included apps that focus on general health, nutrition, exercise, and habit tracking because these features may be included in this app.
My IBD Care
Zemedy
Plop
Cara Care
Bowelle
User Interviews
I conducted interviews with participants who have irritable bowel disease. Their experience with the disease ranged from a couple of years to more than a decade.
Open-ended
questionsQualitative
insightsSix categories
of questionsConducted in
person/ZoomUser Surveys
Some people are uncomfortable about openly discussing their experiences with IBD. Surveys allow anonymity, which can result in people feeling more open to disclosing their viewpoints and aspects of the disease.
10 Closed
questionsQuantitative
insightsConducted via
SurveyMonkeyShared on Facebook,
Reddit, SlackUlcerative colitis is a life-long, inflammatory gastrointestinal disease that affects people of all ages, and can lead to additional health conditions—all of which need management. It’s classified as an irritable bowel disease (IBD), and in the same family as Crohn’s Disease.
What is ulceartive colitis?
Competitive and Comparative Alayses
I researched some of the top irritable bowel disease (IBD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) apps (shown below) to better understand the competition. I also performed a comparative analysis, which included apps that focus on general health, nutrition, exercise, and habit tracking because these features may be included in this app.
My IBD Care
Zemedy
Plop
Cara Care
Bowelle
User Interviews
I conducted interviews with participants who have irritable bowel disease. Their experience with the disease ranged from a couple of years to more than a decade.
Open-ended
questionsQualitative
insightsSix categories
of questionsConducted in
person/ZoomUser Surveys
Some people are uncomfortable about openly discussing their experiences with IBD. Surveys allow anonymity, which can result in people feeling more open to disclosing their viewpoints and aspects of the disease.
10 Closed
questionsQuantitative
insightsConducted via
SurveyMonkeyShared on Facebook,
Reddit, SlackUlcerative colitis is a life-long, inflammatory gastrointestinal disease that affects people of all ages, and can lead to additional health conditions—all of which need management. It’s classified as an irritable bowel disease (IBD), and in the same family as Crohn’s Disease.
What is ulceartive colitis?
Competitive and Comparative Alayses
I researched some of the top irritable bowel disease (IBD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) apps (shown below) to better understand the competition. I also performed a comparative analysis, which included apps that focus on general health, nutrition, exercise, and habit tracking because these features may be included in this app.
My IBD Care
Zemedy
Plop
Cara Care
Bowelle
User Interviews
I conducted interviews with participants who have irritable bowel disease. Their experience with the disease ranged from a couple of years to more than a decade.
Open-ended
questionsQualitative
insightsSix categories
of questionsConducted in
person/ZoomUser Surveys
Some people are uncomfortable about openly discussing their experiences with IBD. Surveys allow anonymity, which can result in people feeling more open to disclosing their viewpoints and aspects of the disease.
10 Closed
questionsQuantitative
insightsConducted via
SurveyMonkeyShared on Facebook,
Reddit, SlackUlcerative colitis is a life-long, inflammatory gastrointestinal disease that affects people of all ages, and can lead to additional health conditions—all of which need management. It’s classified as an irritable bowel disease (IBD), and in the same family as Crohn’s Disease.
What is ulceartive colitis?
Competitive and Comparative Alayses
I researched some of the top irritable bowel disease (IBD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) apps (shown below) to better understand the competition. I also performed a comparative analysis, which included apps that focus on general health, nutrition, exercise, and habit tracking because these features may be included in this app.
My IBD Care
Zemedy
Plop
Cara Care
Bowelle
User Interviews
I conducted interviews with participants who have irritable bowel disease. Their experience with the disease ranged from a couple of years to more than a decade.
Open-ended
questionsQualitative
insightsSix categories
of questionsConducted in
person/ZoomUser Surveys
Some people are uncomfortable about openly discussing their experiences with IBD. Surveys allow anonymity, which can result in people feeling more open to disclosing their viewpoints and aspects of the disease.
10 Closed
questionsQuantitative
insightsConducted via
SurveyMonkeyShared on Facebook,
Reddit, Slack
Subject Matter Research
Competitive
Analysis
User
Interviews
User
Surveys
Contextual Inquiry
Better understand user behavior around the disease of ulcerative colitis
UC Behavior
Understand how users keep track of symptoms and medical information
Tracking Symptoms
Understand the wellness activities that users need
Wellness Activities
Determine the features users find most helpful in a health/wellness app
Desired Features
Ulcerative colitis is a life-long, inflammatory gastrointestinal disease that affects people of all ages, and can lead to additional health conditions—all of which need management. It’s classified as an irritable bowel disease (IBD), and in the same family as Crohn’s Disease.
What is ulceartive colitis?
Competitive and Comparative Alayses
I researched some of the top irritable bowel disease (IBD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) apps (shown below) to better understand the competition. I also performed a comparative analysis, which included apps that focus on general health, nutrition, exercise, and habit tracking because these features may be included in this app.
My IBD Care
Zemedy
Plop
Cara Care
Bowelle
User Interviews
I conducted interviews with participants who have irritable bowel disease. Their experience with the disease ranged from a couple of years to more than a decade.
Open-ended
questionsQualitative
insightsSix categories
of questionsConducted in
person/ZoomUser Surveys
Some people are uncomfortable about openly discussing their experiences with IBD. Surveys allow anonymity, which can result in people feeling more open to disclosing their viewpoints and aspects of the disease.
10 Closed
questionsQuantitative
insightsConducted via
SurveyMonkeyShared on Facebook,
Reddit, SlackUlcerative colitis is a life-long, inflammatory gastrointestinal disease that affects people of all ages, and can lead to additional health conditions—all of which need management. It’s classified as an irritable bowel disease (IBD), and in the same family as Crohn’s Disease.
What is ulceartive colitis?
Competitive and Comparative Alayses
I researched some of the top irritable bowel disease (IBD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) apps (shown below) to better understand the competition. I also performed a comparative analysis, which included apps that focus on general health, nutrition, exercise, and habit tracking because these features may be included in this app.
My IBD Care
Zemedy
Plop
Cara Care
Bowelle
User Interviews
I conducted interviews with participants who have irritable bowel disease. Their experience with the disease ranged from a couple of years to more than a decade.
Open-ended
questionsQualitative
insightsSix categories
of questionsConducted in
person/ZoomUser Surveys
Some people are uncomfortable about openly discussing their experiences with IBD. Surveys allow anonymity, which can result in people feeling more open to disclosing their viewpoints and aspects of the disease.
10 Closed
questionsQuantitative
insightsConducted via
SurveyMonkeyShared on Facebook,
Reddit, SlackUlcerative colitis is a life-long, inflammatory gastrointestinal disease that affects people of all ages, and can lead to additional health conditions—all of which need management. It’s classified as an irritable bowel disease (IBD), and in the same family as Crohn’s Disease.
What is ulceartive colitis?
Competitive and Comparative Alayses
I researched some of the top irritable bowel disease (IBD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) apps (shown below) to better understand the competition. I also performed a comparative analysis, which included apps that focus on general health, nutrition, exercise, and habit tracking because these features may be included in this app.
My IBD Care
Zemedy
Plop
Cara Care
Bowelle
User Interviews
I conducted interviews with participants who have irritable bowel disease. Their experience with the disease ranged from a couple of years to more than a decade.
Open-ended
questionsQualitative
insightsSix categories
of questionsConducted in
person/ZoomUser Surveys
Some people are uncomfortable about openly discussing their experiences with IBD. Surveys allow anonymity, which can result in people feeling more open to disclosing their viewpoints and aspects of the disease.
10 Closed
questionsQuantitative
insightsConducted via
SurveyMonkeyShared on Facebook,
Reddit, SlackUlcerative colitis is a life-long, inflammatory gastrointestinal disease that affects people of all ages, and can lead to additional health conditions—all of which need management. It’s classified as an irritable bowel disease (IBD), and in the same family as Crohn’s Disease.
What is ulceartive colitis?
Competitive and Comparative Alayses
I researched some of the top irritable bowel disease (IBD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) apps (shown below) to better understand the competition. I also performed a comparative analysis, which included apps that focus on general health, nutrition, exercise, and habit tracking because these features may be included in this app.
My IBD Care
Zemedy
Plop
Cara Care
Bowelle
User Interviews
I conducted interviews with participants who have irritable bowel disease. Their experience with the disease ranged from a couple of years to more than a decade.
Open-ended
questionsQualitative
insightsSix categories
of questionsConducted in
person/ZoomUser Surveys
Some people are uncomfortable about openly discussing their experiences with IBD. Surveys allow anonymity, which can result in people feeling more open to disclosing their viewpoints and aspects of the disease.
10 Closed
questionsQuantitative
insightsConducted via
SurveyMonkeyShared on Facebook,
Reddit, Slack
Once in clinical remission, focus shifts from articles about ulcerative colitis to articles about new drugs, drug side effects, and secondary conditions that arise from having UC.
Resources
Ulcerative colitis and diet go hand-in-hand. Having a way to monitor what was eaten and when, noting any symptoms along the way, helps identify trigger foods that lead to flare ups.
Diet
Keep medical records in one place for easy access and organization. Provide a way to quickly pull up questions during a doctor visit. Privacy and security are crucial in this aspect to establish user trust.
Records
Participants reported that they need moral support—someone who understands their disease and makes them feel less alone.
Support
Created an informed
consent form
Recruited
participants
Selected test
methods
Developed a test plan
and test script
Conducted
the tests
Analyzed test
results for insights
Created a usability
test report
Made improvements
to the prototype
Errors
“Explore means to explore all the different features within the app.”
“I don’t think I realized to click on the logo to go home.”
“Until I sort of knew the navigation, I would tap on ‘explore’ to bring up a table of contents.”
Positive Comments
“I like having the calendar right there. It’s easy to access.”
“Having all this stuff [trackers and medical records] in one place is really helpful.”
“It’s nice because in literally one or two clicks, I’m finding out the stuff that I need.”
Observations
“I really love the ‘exercise’ and ‘learn’ buttons up here because it’s right under the tab and really easy to notice.”
“I’m not overwhelmed with a bunch of stuff on the screen that I don’t understand.”
“The submenu is clear to me because of the way it’s set up. It’s easy.”
An excerpt from the design language system is displayed below.
Design Language System
Mission Statement
Logo
Typography
Colors
Grids
Common UI Components
Interactions
Animations
Tagline and Voice
Mascot
UC and Wellness
Lighting the path to wellness
Lighting the path to wellness
My RoLE
Designed For
Project type
Duration
UX / UI Designer
6 months
Responsive Web App
UX Immersive
Primary Tools
Figma, Optimal Workshop, Illustrator,
Photoshop, InDesign
research
I defined my research goals and methods, and performed user research to empathize with users and better understand behaviors, needs, motivations, and pain points.
analyze
I collected and sorted the data from my research to gain valuable insights that helped me make informed,
user-centric design decisions.
Ulcerative colitis is a life-long, inflammatory gastrointestinal disease that affects people of all ages, and can lead to additional health conditions—all of which need management. It’s classified as an irritable bowel disease (IBD), and in the same family as Crohn’s Disease.
What is ulceartive colitis?
Competitive & Comparative Alayses
I researched some of the top irritable bowel disease (IBD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) apps (shown below) to better understand the competition. I also performed a comparative analysis, which included apps that focus on health, nutrition, exercise, and habit tracking because these features may be included in this app.
My IBD Care
Zemedy
Plop
Cara Care
Bowelle
User Interviews
I conducted interviews with participants who have irritable bowel disease. Their experience with the disease ranged from a couple of years to more than a decade.
Open-ended
questionsQualitative
insightsSix categories
of questionsConducted in
person/ZoomUser Surveys
Some people are uncomfortable about discussing their experiences with IBD. Surveys allow anonymity, which can result in more open to disclosure about the disease.
10 Closed
questionsQuantitative
insightsConducted via
SurveyMonkeyShared on Facebook,
Reddit, SlackUlcerative colitis is a life-long, inflammatory gastrointestinal disease that affects people of all ages, and can lead to additional health conditions—all of which need management. It’s classified as an irritable bowel disease (IBD), and in the same family as Crohn’s Disease.
What is ulceartive colitis?
Competitive & Comparative Alayses
I researched some of the top irritable bowel disease (IBD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) apps (shown below) to better understand the competition. I also performed a comparative analysis, which included apps that focus on health, nutrition, exercise, and habit tracking because these features may be included in this app.
My IBD Care
Zemedy
Plop
Cara Care
Bowelle
User Interviews
I conducted interviews with participants who have irritable bowel disease. Their experience with the disease ranged from a couple of years to more than a decade.
Open-ended
questionsQualitative
insightsSix categories
of questionsConducted in
person/ZoomUser Surveys
Some people are uncomfortable about discussing their experiences with IBD. Surveys allow anonymity, which can result in more open to disclosure about the disease.
10 Closed
questionsQuantitative
insightsConducted via
SurveyMonkeyShared on Facebook,
Reddit, SlackUlcerative colitis is a life-long, inflammatory gastrointestinal disease that affects people of all ages, and can lead to additional health conditions—all of which need management. It’s classified as an irritable bowel disease (IBD), and in the same family as Crohn’s Disease.
What is ulceartive colitis?
Competitive & Comparative Alayses
I researched some of the top irritable bowel disease (IBD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) apps (shown below) to better understand the competition. I also performed a comparative analysis, which included apps that focus on health, nutrition, exercise, and habit tracking because these features may be included in this app.
My IBD Care
Zemedy
Plop
Cara Care
Bowelle
User Interviews
I conducted interviews with participants who have irritable bowel disease. Their experience with the disease ranged from a couple of years to more than a decade.
Open-ended
questionsQualitative
insightsSix categories
of questionsConducted in
person/ZoomUser Surveys
Some people are uncomfortable about discussing their experiences with IBD. Surveys allow anonymity, which can result in more open to disclosure about the disease.
10 Closed
questionsQuantitative
insightsConducted via
SurveyMonkeyShared on Facebook,
Reddit, SlackUlcerative colitis is a life-long, inflammatory gastrointestinal disease that affects people of all ages, and can lead to additional health conditions—all of which need management. It’s classified as an irritable bowel disease (IBD), and in the same family as Crohn’s Disease.
What is ulceartive colitis?
Competitive & Comparative Alayses
I researched some of the top irritable bowel disease (IBD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) apps (shown below) to better understand the competition. I also performed a comparative analysis, which included apps that focus on health, nutrition, exercise, and habit tracking because these features may be included in this app.
My IBD Care
Zemedy
Plop
Cara Care
Bowelle
User Interviews
I conducted interviews with participants who have irritable bowel disease. Their experience with the disease ranged from a couple of years to more than a decade.
Open-ended
questionsQualitative
insightsSix categories
of questionsConducted in
person/ZoomUser Surveys
Some people are uncomfortable about discussing their experiences with IBD. Surveys allow anonymity, which can result in more open to disclosure about the disease.
10 Closed
questionsQuantitative
insightsConducted via
SurveyMonkeyShared on Facebook,
Reddit, Slack
Subject Matter Research
Competitive
Analysis
User
Interviews
User
Surveys
Contextual Inquiry
Which of the following features would you find most useful in a tool to help you manage ulcerative colitis?
Survey Question #1
Survey Data for #1
Survey Insight for #1
Survey participants believe these three features are important tools for self-managing UC.
Stool (or flare up)
symptom trackerCalendar and note taking area
Setting reminders (appts, meds, etc.)
Which of the following features would you find most useful in a tool to help you manage ulcerative colitis?
Survey Question #1
Survey Data for #1
Survey Insight for #1
Survey participants believe these three features are important tools for self-managing UC.
Stool (or flare up)
symptom trackerCalendar and note taking area
Setting reminders (appts, meds, etc.)
Which of the following features would you find most useful in a tool to help you manage ulcerative colitis?
Survey Question #1
Survey Data for #1
Survey Insight for #1
Survey participants believe these three features are important tools for self-managing UC.
Stool (or flare up)
symptom trackerCalendar and note taking area
Setting reminders (appts, meds, etc.)
Which of the following features would you find most useful in a tool to help you manage ulcerative colitis?
Survey Question #1
Survey Data for #1
Survey Insight for #1
Survey participants believe these three features are important tools for self-managing UC.
Stool (or flare up)
symptom trackerCalendar and note taking area
Setting reminders (appts, meds, etc.)
Provide the option to add and track symptoms of other conditions that arise from having UC, as well as diet. This creates a holistic approach to healthcare management.
Tracking
Missing doses of medication could create flare ups, so medication reminders would be helpful. Include doctor appointment reminders, so everything pertaining to UC stays in one place.
Calendar
Users are actively involved in taking care of themselves. They enjoy seeing measurable results from wellness activities. They also like having a way to connect with others who have UC.
Wellness
synthesize
Based on my research findings, I created three personas, all at different stages of their journey with UC. The personas capture user motivations, goals, and challenges, fostering empathy. Additionally, I developed a problem statement.
strategy
Fostering an emotional connection with the target audience is an effective strategy for enhancing user engagement and cultivating a meaningful experience. To achieve this, I introduced Coco the Colon cat.
ideate
During a brainstorming (ideation) session, I sketched rough concepts and iterations for the app based on my research data and emotional strategy.
architect
After the ideation session, I narrowed my concepts into a possible design solution and developed the site plan. I used card sorting to refine my thoughts.
design
I brought the site map to life, starting with hand-drawn, low-fidelity wireframes and progressed to mid-fidelity wireframes and interactive prototypes using Figma.
usability testing
The usability study aimed to evaluate the app's learnability, gauge the app's value, assess users' comprehension of the project, and determine users' ability to successfully complete specific tasks.
“Explore means to explore all the different features within the app.”
“I don’t think I realized to click on the logo to go home.”
“Until I sort of knew the navigation, I would tap on ‘explore’ to bring up a table of contents.”
“Explore means to explore all the different features within the app.”
“I don’t think I realized to click on the logo to go home.”
“Until I sort of knew the navigation, I would tap on ‘explore’ to bring up a table of contents.”
“Explore means to explore all the different features within the app.”
“I don’t think I realized to click on the logo to go home.”
“Until I sort of knew the navigation, I would tap on ‘explore’ to bring up a table of contents.”
“Explore means to explore all the different features within the app.”
“I don’t think I realized to click on the logo to go home.”
“Until I sort of knew the navigation, I would tap on ‘explore’ to bring up a table of contents.”
“I like having the calendar right there. It’s easy to access.”
“Having all this stuff [trackers and medical records] in one place is really helpful.”
“It’s nice because in literally one or two clicks, I’m finding out the stuff that I need.”
“I like having the calendar right there. It’s easy to access.”
“Having all this stuff [trackers and medical records] in one place is really helpful.”
“It’s nice because in literally one or two clicks, I’m finding out the stuff that I need.”
“I like having the calendar right there. It’s easy to access.”
“Having all this stuff [trackers and medical records] in one place is really helpful.”
“It’s nice because in literally one or two clicks, I’m finding out the stuff that I need.”
“I like having the calendar right there. It’s easy to access.”
“Having all this stuff [trackers and medical records] in one place is really helpful.”
“It’s nice because in literally one or two clicks, I’m finding out the stuff that I need.”
“I really love the ‘exercise’ and ‘learn’ buttons up here because it’s right under the tab and really easy to notice.”
“I’m not overwhelmed with a bunch of stuff on the screen that I don’t understand.”
“The submenu is clear to me because of the way it’s set up. It’s easy.”
“I really love the ‘exercise’ and ‘learn’ buttons up here because it’s right under the tab and really easy to notice.”
“I’m not overwhelmed with a bunch of stuff on the screen that I don’t understand.”
“The submenu is clear to me because of the way it’s set up. It’s easy.”
“I really love the ‘exercise’ and ‘learn’ buttons up here because it’s right under the tab and really easy to notice.”
“I’m not overwhelmed with a bunch of stuff on the screen that I don’t understand.”
“The submenu is clear to me because of the way it’s set up. It’s easy.”
“I really love the ‘exercise’ and ‘learn’ buttons up here because it’s right under the tab and really easy to notice.”
“I’m not overwhelmed with a bunch of stuff on the screen that I don’t understand.”
“The submenu is clear to me because of the way it’s set up. It’s easy.”
Improvements
Improvements to the revised prototype include: a way to return home and updated navigation. More testing and iterations followed, and the site map and user flows were updated to reflect these changes.
(Home screen improvements—one example)
Original Mid-fidelity Prototype
Revised Mid-fidelity Prototype
Original Mid-fidelity Prototype
Revised Mid-fidelity Prototype
Original Mid-fidelity Prototype
Revised Mid-fidelity Prototype
Original Mid-fidelity Prototype
Revised Mid-fidelity Prototype
design system
Vibrant, clean, simple, thoughtful, friendly, and helpful are just a few of the words that shape the voice, tone, and feel of the design language system.
An excerpt from the design language system is displayed below.
Color Palette
#593DE6
#6B47F
#3712A0
#7F1EE5
#AD14BD
#FDCA00
#F8F7F7
#000000
#FFFFFF
interactive design
Coco’s animation sets the tone of the app. From getting rolled with toilet paper, to his subtle tail movements and slow blinks, his humor, compassion, and friendliness lighten and lift the user experience.
high-fidelity design
The polished design exudes vibrancy and positivity, and it’s tailored to support users at any stage of their journey with ulcerative colitis, reflecting a holistic approach.
walkthrough
Experience a walkthrough of the UC and Wellness app! This prototype walks through three tasks that fulfill the needs and goals of our persona, Elle.