overview
The Dream Academy - a community led 15-week course for LGBTQA+ users that provides resources such as training and skills to inspire members to shape their future.
We aimed to update key features in the mobile browser application to enhance the user experience for SPI users connecting with each other and accessing Dream Academy resources.
project requirement scope
To align with SPI's goal, our team aimed to optimize the platform to conform to the client’s new brand guidelines. Due to time constraints and differing time zones (EU and US time differences), our design team mostly worked asychronously in 2 different smaller teams because of the timezones.
Better accessibility of skills
Generate new out-reach
Cultivate a safe haven for LGBTQA+ users
Easier connection with peers and leaders
Access support systems for safety/security
Initial project was in hiatus for 1.5 years
Outdated and non-uniform design system
Time restrictions and time zones with team mates
Audit initial screens to determine updates
Redesign components that matches new brand guidelines
Design efforts (wireframe, prototyping, redesign, etc.)
style sheets
design system
Once the style sheets were completed, we moved on to producing the design system. The rework team updated the components onto the mid/high-fidelity screens for a trendier interface, while the design system team consolidated previous elements into a unified design system.
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takeaways
Re-designing a caring, systematic, and sustainable design system
Our team aligned the client's visual designs with updated brand guidelines to better reflect Safe Place International’s mission supporting LGBTQ+ refugees. We prioritized seamless integration, brand integrity, user comfort, and safeguarding features by adding a noticeable "Exit" button to enhance user safety.
Prioritization
Due to time constraints, both teams simultaneously updated the design system and user flows. We aimed to refresh more screens and make decisions in hands-on meetings, but focused on screens that could be developed within the limited timeframe, given the team split by time zones.