Cultured
The sign up process
Cultured is my interaction design thesis project, it is currently in progress.
My vision is to lessen culture shock for exchange and international students, so they are free to quickly adjust and experience the new culture. Accomplished by an organization that would work with exchange and international students in various aspects of their studies and travels.
My mission is to create a smartphone app that will encourage exchange and international students to get out of their comfort zones and meet others. Exchange and international students will become more open to the possibilities of integration, while also giving them resources to utilize and other students to journey with, so they are not alone.
Persona - Simon, understanding the audience's personal feelings and psyche
Experience Map - understanding the exchange student's journey and the places where my organization and app can assist
Initial layout exploration using Sketch
Site map to organize layout of app
First app design for usability testing, using Figma
Second app design, based off usability testing feedback
Scenarios exploring the digital assistant feature of the app
Exploration into a more finalized design direction
Experience Story
1 week before exchange
Simon is anxious and insecure in his preparations for studying abroad. He receives an email from his school, suggesting he downloads the app “Cultured.” Simon is determined to be as fully prepared as he can be, so it takes up the advice. Within the sign up process, Simon is introduced to his personal AI chatbot, Gabriel, the name being a unisex Swiss name Simon is already familiar with. Simon feels more reassured.
Day 1 of exchange
Simon is overwhelmed by the amount of work he has to complete once he arrives in the US, such as registering, which mus be conducted ASAP. Gabriel asks if Simon needs help with the process. To help, Gabriel assigns Simon a local mentor named Julie, that has helped others before and can help Simon with understanding what to do and where to go for the process. Simon feels more secure with a local contact.
Day 3 of exchange
Simon must go to the school for orientation, however, he does not know how to get there. Gabriel recognizes the reminder message of orientation, and suggest Simon specific transit to take, based on his needs. Gabriel also provides a google maps link for Simon to use while on his way. Simon is able to travel without worries of where he is going, or what trimet to use.
