The difference between the experiment and prototype, as outlined in Andreas's provided slides, is as follows:
Through this, it can be understood that a prototype is created through stages with the purpose of problem-solving. In this process, I had to revisit my previously finalized problem statement.
To derive a solution for this, I realized that while personal experimentation based on my own experience is valuable, it's also necessary to create solutions through a more diverse range of readings.
Through this process, two solutions have been derived:
1. Show the log history to users.
2. Add the summary section.
3. Design the layout based on the previous research.
Currently, I decided to prioritize implementing the first solution. I modified the previously used design layout and created a sketch for the final website design.
Given that the idea revolves around showcasing the log, I increased the font size to emphasize it. Additionally, I enabled users to freely navigate through previously visited pages by clicking on the log. The challenge was to convey this without specific instructions. Therefore, I chose blue as the accent color, giving all hyperlinks a blue background. I also deemed it essential to add a hover effect to highlight the links.
Creating a non-linear process involves gathering and connecting scholarly readings that can be interlinked. For efficient work, I conducted two link mapping processes.
I asked my friends to use the website directly, aiming to identify areas for improvement through testing. The identified issues from the results are as follows:
The design of hyperlinks in the main text resembles highlights rather than links, causing confusion for users.
The log and the current site's title are not clearly distinguished.
Although intended, the feature to insert images was not added. The absence of images makes it challenging for users to grasp the content more easily, lacking additional explanatory details.
As the last week of the first semester, I had many opportunities to reflect and summarize my design process so far. Before starting the 14-week design journey, I believed I was aware of my current step, but somewhere along the way, I realized that I had lost sight of the original purpose and was focusing on new experiments. What if I take a moment each week before starting the design to briefly outline my design process? I think doing so could be more helpful. The process of creating prototypes was a continuous exploration of questions and problem-solving, with user testing playing a crucial role in receiving critical design evaluations. The design elements to be developed in December are clear, and having experienced the importance of the design step, my next task is to execute the plan.
Then, see you in Next semester!