In this course we were tasked with recreating the Phoenix Public Library (PPL) website. It was a daunting challenge and required group collaboration for user data collection, but I was eager to start. 

The class was given a group of 3-4 people (including ourselves) to collect data on the userbase of our (also given) website. We were expected to create three personas and use them to research potential users to test the website with. The group wanted to be sure to consider a diverse range of backgrounds, as the library is for the general public of all Arizona citizens, so we selected five users each (so a total of 20 users) with varying ages, income and education levels.

Two user tests were conducted, a survey and a user test of the website itself on each user. When the results were collected, the group began collaborating again on an information hierarchy architecture to organize the data. The process was meticulous, but crucial to ensuring that the website design met the user needs. 

Collaborating was fun but relatively hands off compared to other assignments I’ve been on. Since our data collection and revamp projects were separate, most of this section was completed alone, and after this experience there was no further team corroboration. I learned a lot regarding hands-off communication and social skills when going through this project.  

After that, it was time to build the individual website redesign. Starting with sitemaps, I used these to establish design goals and ensure that the experience was data-driven, logical, but still creative. The website had to be unique and visually appealing but keep the functionality and make it easier to use. From there, three wireframes were created for the home page, locations, and book catalog. To demonstrate the work, a live prototype was created. A changelog was kept to track the findings and design designs, as I worked tirelessly to bring my vision to fruition. The users needed to be able to navigate easily and find the information they desired without negative feelings of overwhelming confusion.