Projects using UserTesting in CaliforniaProjects using UserTesting in CaliforniaAs Founding Designer at Zeal, I built the product’s UX and UI from zero, designing data tools that helped teachers make sense of student progress across Common Core standards. I spent multiple days per week in classrooms observing real use, during lessons, between classes, and in planning meetings, and redesigned based on what actually worked under time pressure. I led the design of teacher dashboards, proficiency heatmaps, goal-setting tools, and an adaptive classroom game that adjusted difficulty per student while maintaining shared competition. The result was a platform adopted by 100+ schools, where teachers could understand class progress in seconds and make better instructional decisions without wading through raw data. Increasing App Engagement by Simplifying Trip Planning and Ticketing for Metrolink Riders
Metrolink’s mobile app is a key way riders buy tickets—but many found it confusing, limited, and frustrating to use. Important tasks like choosing the right ticket, finding routes, and tracking trains weren’t clear or fully supported, leading to wasted time, mistakes, and lower app usage.
As the sole designer, I led a 3-month redesign focused on making the app more useful beyond just ticket purchasing. I clarified complex ticket information, simplified the buying process, and introduced key features like route recommendations, train tracking, and schedule checking—all designed to help users plan their trips with confidence.
After two rounds of user testing and iteration, user satisfaction significantly improved. The likelihood of users returning to the app increased by 37%, and overall experience ratings became more positive. This project demonstrated how clearer content, better structure, and the right feature set can turn a frustrating tool into one riders actually want to use.
