React Native, Docusaurus, Figma, Inkscape, Krita
Software Development, UX Design, User Research, User Testing, Deployment, Web Design, Graphic Design, Logo Design, Digital Illustration
"ReentryGuide GR" is a mobile application developed in collaboration with Reentry Reimagined, designed specifically to support the reintegration of former prisoners into society within the Grand Rapids area.
The goal is to develop an inclusive and user-friendly mobile application for end users, alongside a website with documentation, encouraging people to fork the project and expand its impact.
The Challenge
A local non-profit organization "Reentry Reimagined" needed a mobile app to help formerly incarcerated people navigate to locations that provide crucial resources for their survival, such as food, clothing, hygiene, and healthcare.
User Research
Our user research focused on understanding the unique needs and challenges of our target audience: formerly incarcerated individuals seeking crucial resources.
Key Findings:Our users come from diverse backgrounds but share the experience of reintegrating into society after incarceration.
Many of our users navigate high-stress environments daily, dealing with uncertainties in housing, employment, and social reintegration.
A significant portion of our user base has limited experience with modern smartphones and apps.
Some users have various cognitive disabilities, requiring special consideration in our design approach.
Technology Stack Evaluation
React Native as framework
Options Considered:
Rationale:
(Credit: Asana)
UI/UX Design Research
We compared several prominent design systems to inform our UI decisions:
Key Decision: We adopted a hybrid approach, drawing inspiration from iOS settings menu and Fluent Design, with additional accessibility design suggestions from Refactoring UI.
Rationale:
Usability Testing
We conducted thorough user testing to ensure our app meets the needs of our diverse user base. Our testing group included:
We implemented an iterative usability testing process, conducting two rounds of evaluations with distinct sets of participants. After each round, we analyzed the results and made necessary adjustments to the app.
For each session, I met participants at a convenient location near their residences to ensure a comfortable and familiar environment. Participants were provided with a testing phone preloaded with our app. Using a standardized usability testing script, I guided participants through a series of tasks within the app. To gain deeper insights into their thought processes and comprehension, I employed the 'think-aloud' protocol, encouraging participants to verbalize their thoughts and explain what they saw on the screen in their own words. Throughout the session, I used my own phone to record verbatim quotes and detailed observations of the user's responses and interactions with the app. This method allowed for accurate documentation while maintaining a natural testing environment.
Key Findings
Positive Outcomes:
Areas for Improvement:
Solution: We changed the alignments of the elements from horizontal to vertical and the wording to present tense. We did not find this confusing anymore in the second round of usability testing.
Plans: We are planning to shoot a video guide for how to use Google Maps Bus routes, and link the video into the app.
Final UI
ProminentDisclosure.js
ImportantNotice.js
RequestPermission.js
MainMenu.js
MealOrGroceries.js
LunchOrDinner.js
ResourceLocation.js
SelectResourceLocation.js
SelectResourceLocation.js
AllLocationsClosed.js
(I temporary set time to 11:24 pm)
ResourceLocationsList.js
ResourceLocation.js
MoreInfo.js
SelectTransportation.js
/components/GoogleMapsTutorial.js
DidGoogleMapsCrash.js
DidGoogleMapsCrash.js
FindHealthcare.js
The Website
The website for ReentryGuide GR is built using Docusaurus and React, serving three primary functions:
Provides a google play link, ensuring easy access for users.
For those who cannot use a smartphone.
Allowing developers to fork the project and adapt it for use in their own cities.