Information Architecture (IA): Laying the Foundation
The project began with the creation of a robust Information Architecture (IA), which served as the foundation for all subsequent design work. This stage involved carefully organising and prioritizing the content that would appear on each screen. We identified the most critical information for Deva’s members, such as race entries, horse details, training updates, and imagery. Establishing the right hierarchy and flow ensured that users would always be able to find the information they needed quickly and efficiently. The IA phase was essential in creating a logical structure that minimized cognitive overload while maintaining clarity and focus.
Exploration
Once the IA was established, we transitioned into the UX design phase, where I led the exploration of how information would be displayed across the app. This stage was all about creating intuitive, easy-to-navigate screens that provided a seamless experience for users. I experimented with different layouts and structures to find the best ways to present detailed information without overwhelming the user. Throughout this process, I learned how to strike a balance between using icons for visual simplicity and text for clarity, ensuring that the app was both visually appealing and functional.
Home Screen as the Anchor
The Home Screen was designed to act as the central hub of the app, providing users with a secure reference point that could be accessed from anywhere within the app. It housed all the essential information, including quick links to the most important sections like race entries, horse details, and members’ updates. The importance of seamless navigation became apparent here, as one poorly designed link could disrupt the user’s journey. Our focus was on creating a smooth, consistent navigation system that kept users engaged and helped them find their way back to the Home Screen with ease. This intuitive design ensured that the app felt cohesive and easy to use.
The Members’ Area: Enhancing User Experience
A key feature of the app was the development of the Members’ Area, designed to offer Deva Racing’s members a richer and more personalized experience. This space was crafted to give users access to detailed information about their horses, including upcoming race entries, updates from trainers, and exclusive images of the horses during training or on race day. By enhancing the members' interaction with their horses through visually rich content and timely updates, we aimed to create a deeper sense of connection and exclusivity for Deva Racing’s loyal members. This area became a cornerstone for user engagement and satisfaction.
Collaboration with Developers and Stakeholders
Throughout the project, I worked closely with developers and senior members of the Deva Racing team, which played a crucial role in refining the app’s functionality and design. These collaborations allowed us to align technical possibilities with design aspirations, ensuring that the final product met both user and business goals. Frequent meetings and feedback sessions with the development team also sharpened my ability to present UI/UX concepts clearly and effectively. Guiding discussions and making strategic decisions alongside the team strengthened my leadership skills and deepened my understanding of how different perspectives contribute to a successful product.
Reflections and Professional Growth
Looking back, this project was a major milestone in my professional journey. It not only enriched my understanding of UX design but also highlighted the importance of collaboration, communication, and user-centered thinking in the development process. Working on such a user-focused product reinforced the value of designing with empathy, ensuring that the end-user’s needs are always the priority. The project also helped me build confidence in presenting ideas, leading discussions, and working in close partnership with developers to bring concepts to life. Ultimately, this experience has shaped my approach to future design projects, emphasizing the importance of collaboration, innovation, and creating impactful digital experiences.
