Master any language by having conversations with real people
Add a feature
(Concept)
Researcher, Project Manager, Product Design
Figma, FigJam, Google Forms, Maze, Fathom
3 Weeks – Q2
2023
The Tandem Language Exchange app allows a community of language learners to gather and teach each other their native language via text, audio, and video chats. Since the launch of Tandem in 2015, the app has been downloaded to over 10 million devices. The platform offers a variety of learning features while also allowing members to match with partners who share similar interests and goals.
My research began while looking at some of the most popular language learning apps in the current market. While there are other direct competitors I selected both direct and indirect competitors from some of the top downloaded apps to get a sense of what students desired and motivated their daily interaction for learning. The indirect competition consisted of apps and concepts that market a solution to note keeping or flash card type review.
For the most accurate representation of the target audience I interviewed 5 current Tandem app users via Zoom.
Based on the interviews I conducted, I created a user persona of the average Tandem app user to assist me with designing an intentional and effective solution.
Based on the research findings, users needed help in two specific areas of language learning. The need for information organization and easy to use resources helped shape the product goals moving forward.
Throughout the research phase users repeatedly cited frustration over additional resources to store notes. The concept for an in-app notebook was formulated to create a central spot for users to create, organize, and reference customized content that is directly related to their learning goals.
While designing the low fidelity wireframes I considered both the concept of introducing a completely new feature that melded seamlessly with Tandem’s existing branding and style guidelines.
I conducted an interim test prior to usability testing to collect immediate feedback on the addition of the notebook and observe how users navigate the screens. This session also helped me to see if there were any design elements that needed to be revised to fit the app’s current aesthetic.
My test group consisted of 8 users. Tests were performed under moderated and unmoderated sessions. This approach helped me follow up with users on the specific pain points from a particular screen and have them elaborate on their thought process.
Unmoderated usability tests resulted in 80% success rate while moderated tests resulted in 83% success rate. Results from testing were an overall success, but certain elements were identified that needed immediate improvement.
Immediate updates were made to the Tandem Notebook. Priority was placed on the potential negative impact users may experience if left unchanged.
Adding a new entry to Tandem Notebook.
Suggested features that require additional design iterations and workflows.
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