Empowering Freelancers with seamless collaboration and growth opportunities.
Role
UX Researcher
User Interface Designer
Duration
3-4 Months
Tools & Technology
Problem Statement
Freelancers and clients are users who require a streamlined user experience on the freelancing platform because existing platforms often complicates the process, resulting in inefficiencies, dissatisfaction and frustration for users.
Research Question
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How can we simplify the user on-boarding and profile setup process to ensure a quick and seamless registration experience for both freelancers and clients on the freelancing platform?
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What features and functionalities are essential to optimize project discovery and matching, ensuring that freelancers and clients can efficiently find and connect with relevant opportunities and talent?
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In what ways can we improve communication and project management tools to enhance collaboration and trust between freelancers and clients, thereby increasing overall platform usability and satisfaction?
Proposed Solution
To enhance the user experience on the freelancing platform, we propose simplifying the on-boarding and profile setup with intuitive, step-by-step guidance. Optimizing project discovery and matching will involve advanced search filters, personalized recommendations, and AI-driven matching algorithms. Enhancing communication tool will focus on integrating real-time chat, file sharing. Iterative testing and user feedback will guide continuous improvements, ensuring the platform remains user-centric. These solutions aim to create a seamless, efficient, and trustworthy environment for freelancers and clients to connect, collaborate, and complete projects successfully.
Key Users
Freelancer
Client
Design Method - Stanford Design Thinking Method
User Research Data Understanding
Take Away - Freelancer User
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Wants a platform-integrated communication channel for transparent project communication and data sharing.
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Seek an integrated community channel for peer reviews, industry updates, and collaboration.
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Desire a customisable portfolio section.
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Need advanced search and filter functions.
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Want to see the client's payment history for validation.
Take Away - Client User
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Freelancers on these platforms often offer competitive rates compared to traditional hiring.
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They can find freelancers for various project types, both short-term and long-term.
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Relying on freelancer reviews and ratings.
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Escrow systems and milestone-based payments protect clients by ensuring work is delivered as agreed before funds are released.
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Clients typically review freelancers' portfolios to assess work quality.
Empathy Map
Personas
Customer Journey Map
Information Architecture
Point of View Statements
"HOW Might We" Ideation
Crazy 8 Ideation Technique
In just 8 minutes, participants generated creative ideas for profile creation and community features. This dynamic approach encouraged fast thinking and ignited innovative concepts. By promoting swift ideation, Crazy8 Ideation simplified the design process and ensured the inclusion of diverse perspectives, ultimately resulting in more captivating and user-friendly websites.
Competitor Analysis
Low-Fi Prototype
Mid-Fi Wire Flow
Moodboard & Style Guide
Design System
Advanced Search and Filters
Enhance search functionality with advanced filters, allowing users to find projects or freelancers based on skills, ratings, availability, and location. Include a save search feature for quick access to preferred criteria.
Seamless Messaging System
Implement an integrated messaging system with real-time notifications, allowing freelancers and clients to communicate efficiently. Include features like file sharing, quick replies, and conversation sorting to streamline project discussions.
Transparent Review System
Develop a transparent, dual-sided review and rating system where both freelancers and clients can leave detailed feedback. Ensure reviews are visible on profiles to build trust and help users make informed decisions.
Comprehensive Profile Pages
Design detailed profile pages showcasing freelancers' portfolios, client reviews, skills, and work history. Enable freelancers to highlight their expertise and achievements, while providing clients with the necessary information to make informed hiring decisions.
Usability Testing
Tasks
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Creating a Freelancer Profile
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Browsing job listing and find a desire job.
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Submitting a project proposal to the client.
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Create a job post.
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Search for a freelancer
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Send a message to the freelancer/client using website's messaging functionality.
Observation
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How the user interacts and behaves while navigating the website?
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Does the user understand the terminology and instructions? Are there any areas where they seem confused or unsure?
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Are users able to complete the couple of small tasks given to them?
How long does it take to perform the given task? -
Does user feel frustrated while performing the tasks?
Open-Ended Questions
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How did you find the process of navigating through the platform? Were there any moments where you felt unsure about where to go next?
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Were there any terms or instructions on the platform that you found confusing or unclear? Can you point them out and explain why?
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Did the design or layout of any page make it difficult to complete your task? Were there any elements that distracted or confused you?
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How satisfied are you with the overall experience of using this platform? What specific changes would make it easier or more enjoyable for you to use?
The participants conveyed greater satisfaction with the website, highlighting its effortless usability and the resilience of its tasks. They found the website's ability to present information efficiently while seamlessly incorporating community and communication features commendable. Furthermore, they praised the flawless navigation experience for both user types, emphasising its clarity.
Future Scope
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Implementing more advanced personalisation features can enhance the user experience. This includes personalized job recommendations for freelancers and personalised freelancer suggestions for clients based on their history and preferences.
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User-Friendly Mobile App designed for both users.
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Continuously optimising the mobile experience should be a priority. Mobile usage is on the rise, so ensuring that the website functions smoothly and efficiently on smartphones is crucial for attracting and retaining users.
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Escrow systems and milestone-based payments system.
I appreciate your visit. I would love to receive any feedback/suggestions on the chatbot.
Want to work with me? Feel free to contact me!