The Macromedia University Buddy program
Connecting incoming students and local students – with the aim of making the start in a new city easier for newcomers! The program has existed for several years, but has not had a clear framework and platform, making the overall process complicated and unclear. In this group project, we used a Design Thinking approach to define pain points and to create a better overall experience for all stakeholders – the students as well as the University’s relevant administration team.
Current solution
The administration staff from the University’s International Office approaches the students with information about the program and receives their applications via emails. The application forms include text fields on name, course of study, location, hobbies and interests, and languages spoken.
The matchmaking process is done manually by the administration staff and the matched participants (Buddy = local student offering their guidance + Newbie = incoming student) are emailed about their partners. From then on, it is up to them on which platform to communicate, when & where to meet in person and so on.
The matchmaking process is done manually by the administration staff and the matched participants (Buddy = local student offering their guidance + Newbie = incoming student) are emailed about their partners. From then on, it is up to them on which platform to communicate, when & where to meet in person and so on.
Research based approach
Using a Double Diamond model, which was developed by the Design Council of UK, the overall Design Thinking process was defined and clustered into research- and design phases. We started by evaluating the existing program, in order to be able to develop it further. Our group’s opinion was not enough: Only if we knew what the painpoints are and how real users felt about the current version, we could suggest a new solution.
Scoping Canvas
As a starting point, we decided to use a scoping canvas to help our team align on the scope of our innovation project. Our main idea was clear: improving the existing Buddy program. We came up with several questions we asked ourselves, such as: „How might we make the buddy program useful and enjoyable for new students?“ and „How can we offer a more personalized experience?“.
Primary Research
Primary research was conducted through quantitative research, by creating a survey for current and former participants. Qualitative research was conducted by interviewing former participants as well as administration staff from the University’s International Office, who is currently responsible for the Buddy-Newbie matchmaking process.
Ideation phase
After defining the problem, setting a clear scope and evaluating the research we conducted, we have reached the ideation phase. Conducting brainstorming and brainwriting sessions, we were able to generate a large number of ideas. Using dot voting, we followed the Double Diamond approach and were able to narrow our ideas down to the practicable ones. The next step was creating a mental model, anticipating what the users would expect from our solution, step by step.
Ideation phase
After defining the problem, setting a clear scope and evaluating the research we conducted, we have reached the ideation phase. Conducting brainstorming and brainwriting sessions, we were able to generate a large number of ideas. Using dot voting, we followed the Double Diamond approach and were able to narrow our ideas down to the practicable ones. The next step was creating a mental model, anticipating what the users would expect from our solution, step by step.
Brainstorming - Brainwriting - Mental Model
The solution: Wireframing
A web platform, accessible only using your Macromedia account, where users (Buddies and newbies) will fill out their profile and can choose from several given questions. Feeding an artificial intelligence with this data, a match is created based on the users profile and interests. The platform is a safe space where users can connect, fix dates for activities, make new friends and access a forum – which will eventually serve as a helpful database for newcomers. There are gamification elements and benefits, motivating the users to do certain activities as a team. The International Office can be accessed via the platform in case a user needs help. The platform makes the program fun and easy to use for both, the students and the administration staff.
The solution: Design
An appealing, modern interface for our responsive web platform. The user’s journey starts with the sign-up process – through which they are guided step-by-step, in an effortless way. Using microcopy, displaying the FAQs and help section along the process, offering success messages and motivating the user by showing them the success stories of former participants.
