Application Design I // Task 01

Hasnol Rafiq Bin Hasnol Raduan / 0356767

Application Design II / Bachelor of Design (Hons) in Creative Media / Taylor's Design School

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Task 01: Self Evaluation & Reflection

Information Architecture and User Experience:

Content Organization: The proposed information architecture separates the app's content into five main sections: Home, Ticket Booking, Train Information, Account, and Customer Support. This logical grouping of features and information is a significant improvement over the current app's disorganized structure, which can lead to user confusion and frustration.

Card Sorting: The use of card sorting to determine the information architecture is a commendable user-centered design approach. By involving users in the process of organizing and grouping content, the redesign is more likely to align with their mental models and expectations, resulting in a more intuitive and user-friendly experience.

User Flows: While the details of the user flows are not provided, the emphasis on streamlining the ticket booking process suggests a recognition of the importance of efficient and clear user flows. A well-designed booking process can significantly enhance the overall user experience and increase conversion rates.

MVP Approach: The proposed Minimum Viable Product (MVP) strategy is a sensible approach to iterative development. By focusing on the core features of train booking, schedule information, and payment integration, the redesign can address the most critical issues and gather valuable user feedback for further improvements.

Visual Design and Consistency:

Visual Consistency: Addressing the current app's inconsistencies in typography, color schemes, and iconography is a crucial aspect of the redesign. A cohesive and consistent visual language can significantly improve the app's overall aesthetic appeal and perceived professionalism, contributing to a better user experience.

Visual Design Details: While the content elements and information architecture are well-defined, the lack of visual mockups or wireframes makes it challenging to assess the aesthetic appeal and usability of the redesigned interface fully. Visual design plays a crucial role in creating an engaging and user-friendly experience, and its absence in the provided information limits a comprehensive evaluation.

Functionality and Integration:

Core Features: The proposed MVP focuses on the essential features for train booking, schedule information, and payment integration. This prioritization of core functionalities is a sensible approach, as it allows for a solid foundation upon which additional features can be built.

Integration Challenges: Integrating the redesigned app with KTMB's existing backend systems and APIs could pose technical challenges. Depending on the complexity and flexibility of the current infrastructure, seamless integration may require significant development efforts and collaboration with KTMB's technical teams.

Additional Features: While the MVP focuses on the core features, it is essential to consider the potential addition of other functionalities that users may expect from a comprehensive railway app, such as real-time train tracking, station maps, accessibility features, and integration with other transportation modes. These features could be addressed in subsequent phases of the redesign project.

Accessibility and Inclusive Design:

Accessibility Considerations: While not explicitly mentioned in the provided information, it is crucial to ensure that the redesigned app adheres to accessibility guidelines and caters to users with various abilities and needs. Inclusive design principles should be incorporated from the outset to ensure that the app is usable and accessible to individuals with disabilities, ensuring a positive experience for all users.

Accessibility Testing: Conducting accessibility testing and involving users with diverse abilities during the design and development process can help identify and address potential barriers or usability issues, further enhancing the app's inclusivity and overall user experience.

Iterative Improvement and User Testing:

User Testing: While the proposed redesign addresses several issues with the current app, it is essential to conduct extensive user testing throughout the development process. Gathering feedback from real users can help validate design decisions, identify areas for improvement, and ensure that the redesigned app truly meets their needs and expectations.

Iterative Improvement: The redesign project should be approached as an iterative process, with continuous improvement and refinement based on user feedback and evolving needs. A willingness to adapt and make changes based on real-world usage data will be crucial for the long-term success of the redesigned KTMB mobile app.

Overall, the proposed redesign demonstrates a strong understanding of the current app's shortcomings and a commitment to addressing them through a user-centered design approach. However, the success of the redesign will ultimately depend on the execution of the visual design, seamless integration with existing systems, adherence to accessibility guidelines, and a willingness to continuously improve and adapt based on user feedback and real-world usage data.