Cinema Spark
CinemaSpark is a mobile app prototype that provides specific recommendations according to user preferences and interests. I designed the prototype during the Google UX Specialization course on Coursera.
Project Duration
2 months
My Role
UX Designer
My Responsibilities
Ideating, user research, visual design, wireframing, prototyping
The Problem
Due to their profit-first approach, movie theatre apps do not offer personal recommendations to their users. Moreover, they also deprive users of receiving comprehensive information about movies.
The Solution
Cinema Spark adopts a user-first approach to ensure a pleasant movie-going experience, with reliable recommendations and sufficient information on movies being prioritized features.
Understanding
User research
I conducted interviews to understand the needs and challenges of potential users. The questionnaire focused on user experiences, expectations, and behaviours. The results of the initial research formed the design process.
Time
Customization
Content
UI
User personas
"Movie ratings are frequently unreliable, and I would appreciate receiving regular movie recommendations instead."
The Design Process
Storyboards
Scenario: A movie trailer app that provides users with movie recommendations that are currently screening in their local theatres.
Information architecture
Paper wireframes
Based on the user research, I designed the home page with a personal recommendation list placed prominently in the visual hierarchy. In addition, I deliberately used easily recognizable account sections and movie posters as dominant elements.
Digital wireframes
Low-fidelity prototype
Iteration
Usability studies
Study Type
Unmoderated usability study
Location
Czech Republic, remote
Participants
5 participants (3 female, 2 male)
Age range: 18-53
Length
2 rounds
10-20 minutes each
Round 1 findings
- Users have expressed a desire for more clear visual cues.
- Many users find the navigation drawer to be confusing and difficult to use.
- Users need improved language support.
Round 2 findings
- Some users have difficulties finding the "add to a list" function.
- Users would benefit from a disclaimer after clicking the "buy ticket" button.
- Most users find the filter list inconsistent with the app's visual design.
The Solution
Mockups
High-Fidelity Prototype
Impact
"Cinema Spark is simple and easy to use. I like that there aren't unnecessary details.“ – Participant A
Going Forward
What I learned:
Through the research process, I gained valuable insight into users' needs and preferences, which helped me create a better user experience design.
The iterative design process is fundamental in improving the design.
This project helped me to understand how equity-focused design can significantly impact user experience.
Next steps:
I plan to enhance the Profile section to provide more detailed information on how the app's recommendations work, to improve user understanding and increase trust.
I would consider adding more social features, such as a share button and commenting system. These features could potentially increase user engagement.