Summary

The aim of this project was to create a digital solution to a problem that students face. I did some initial research into many areas surrounding student life, such as managing studies, social life, or part time work. I was most drawn to the topic of finances, as that is a big struggle for many students and an area most of us could do with some support in.

Introduction

I did a lot of research into the area of student finances, and although most of the issues I identified couldn't be solved by an app, I realised that a budgeting app aimed specifically at students doesn't exist. This was quite a shock to me as budgeting could be something that could help out a lot of students, especially if there was an app aimed directly at them to help them out with student-specific issues. I did some user research and decided that I would focus my project on creating a simple, straightforward solution to budgeting for students.

Empathise

I started by doing some initial research into budgeting apps, and realised there was none aimed specifically at students. While doing this research I ran into some threads online of students asking about budgeting apps/solutions, which made me realise this was a real need that has to be solved. I then did some extra user research by conducting some user interviews with people in real life, which gave me some more insight into the problem that I'm trying to solve, and confirmed that money management seems to be a concern for people. I then used this information to create some user personas to better understand my userbase.

Define

I discovered some key features that would be useful to include in a budgeting app aimed at students, including linking to student finance so the app could show you the dates it gets paid into your account and give you suggestions for how to manage your loans, eg how much you should put towards rent, spending, living costs. It could also link to student accomodation providers so students can keep track of when their rent is due to be paid.

I also realised that most students don't really know much about budgeting, so an app that is very simple and gives tutorials along the way would be quite useful. I also think making it easy to ask questions to financial experts in the app would be a good idea. I then started developing my brand and realised I had a good opportunity to include an AI assisstant to help answer some simple questions and guide the user through the app. This would be a new innovative solution and it also has very good design possibilities.

Prototype

I began the prototyping stage by creating low-fidelity paper wireframes to explore different layouts and information hierarchies. These initial sketches helped me visualize how essential information could be displayed clearly and intuitively. From there, I developed high-fidelity mockups in Figma, focusing on creating a clean, modern design that would be easy to use and accessible. I also decided to create a bee mascot that would function as an AI assisstant to guide you through the experience, and offer help whenever the user needs it. I wanted to use a very fun and lighthearted tone of voice, so I sketched out the bee mascot in a simple style and the colour scheme I used is very simple and bright, spring colours. I created a few onbarding screens to explain the app and then every main screen. The bee mascot animated smoothly between each screen, giving the appearence that it's flying.

Test

I conducted some user tests and used the results to improve aspects of my project. I also used feedback received during the critique sessions in class to identify areas for improvement and refine the project. This project is still in the testing phase, as more improvements can always be made and I feel that there are still a lot of things missing from it. If I were to improve this projects I would include some more of the AI assisstants functionality and prototype more of the budgeting options.