Problem

Readers need an app to discover affordable books in the genre that they love because books are expensive at bookstores.

Scope & Constraints

This is a product designed for my current employer Open Road Integrated Media.

User Interviews

I interviewed five people that read between 3 to 5 books a year as part of my research.

I went to bookstores and spoke to readers about the reasons behind their selection book process. Being inside bookstores helped me observe people who are already in the mindset of finding a good book to buy.

I asked readers: What kinds of books do you read? How do you search for books? Walk me through the last time you found a book you liked? Why do you like reading?

Affinity Mapping

As groups began to form, I started to see the book recommendations came from friends, family and authors. Also, money affects the decision on what to read next.

Comparative Research

Quick look in the app store showed me there are many book recommendation apps already

However, I noticed most book recommendation apps do not offer any discounts or deals to book the reader.
Users mentioned the ability to compare prices during user interviews and being able to buy the book they love at the price they can afford.

Persona

A persona helped me identify the book reader’s needs and pains when selecting a book.

My avid reader is a mom of two. She is looking to add value to her life through reading her favorite novels. She also trustees her friends and family members for book recommendations. She is also budget savvy.

User Flow

Avid reader’s experience was mapped by building out a user flow focusing on finding a book to read.

Low Fidelity Wireframes

Created a prototype using InVision and once again headed to bookstores and asked volunteers to test my app.

Usability Testing

Using a high-fidelity prototype, I asked users to perform a set of tasks to make sure my product is easy to use.

Iterations

Designs were updated to fit business needs

Design System

Outcomes & Lessons learned