I was approached by a startup in the gaming industry that sought to create a platform connecting new gamers with professional gamers. The goal was to offer a space where pro gamers could assist new gamers in improving their ranks in competitive games in exchange for payment. The startup needed a dashboard that could seamlessly manage the interactions between pro gamers and new gamers, including matchmaking, payments, performance tracking, and communication. My task was to design a dashboard that was both user-friendly and optimized for the unique demands of the gaming community.

The primary objectives of the dashboard design were:

User Experience: Create an intuitive interface that made it easy for new gamers to connect with pro gamers and vice versa.

Streamlined Matchmaking: Implement a system where gamers could be matched based on specific preferences such as game type, rank, and desired coaching level.

Payment Integration: Design a secure and user-friendly payment system that allowed pro gamers to receive compensation and new gamers to make payments seamlessly.

Progress Tracking: Enable both pro gamers and new gamers to track progress over time, including rank improvements, performance stats, and session history.

In-Platform Communication: Develop an integrated messaging system that facilitated real-time communication between gamers during coaching sessions.

I started by analyzing similar platforms in the gaming industry, specifically those offering services like rank boosting or coaching. I also conducted interviews with potential users (both new and pro gamers) to understand their needs, pain points, and expectations. These insights helped me tailor the dashboard design to meet the specific demands of the gaming community.

With a clear understanding of user needs, I began wireframing the key features of the dashboard. My focus was on creating a clean and functional layout that minimized the complexity of navigation while offering all essential features. Prototypes were developed to test usability and ensure that the user flows—from searching for a pro gamer to completing a session—were seamless and intuitive.

The UI/UX design prioritized simplicity and accessibility, given that the dashboard would cater to both highly skilled pro gamers and less experienced new gamers. Key elements of the design included:

Clean and Modern Interface: I implemented a sleek, modern design using bold colors and a minimalistic aesthetic that resonated with the gaming community. Dark mode options and customizable themes were included to cater to different gamer preferences.

Dashboard Customization: Both new and pro gamers had personalized dashboards. New gamers could view available pro gamers, session history, payment information, and rank progress. Pro gamers had access to their earnings, session schedules, and performance feedback from clients.

Easy Matchmaking: A central feature of the dashboard was the matchmaking system. Gamers could filter pro gamers by game type, availability, skill level, and price. This system allowed users to quickly find a match that suited their preferences and budget.

Payment Integration: The payment system was designed to be secure and straightforward, with clear steps for both making and receiving payments. Gamers could choose from a range of payment options, and pro gamers could set their rates and receive payments automatically after each session.

Performance Tracking: The dashboard featured performance tracking tools that allowed new gamers to monitor their rank improvements over time. This feature offered pro gamers the ability to track their coaching success, providing metrics such as win rates, rank increases, and client feedback.

In-Platform Messaging: Real-time communication was crucial to the success of the platform, so I designed an integrated chat system. This feature allowed new gamers to communicate with their pro gamers during sessions, ask questions, and receive feedback without having to switch to third-party messaging tools.

User-Centric Design: The design has been praised by the startup for its focus on user experience, with simple navigation, clear calls-to-action, and thoughtful touches that cater to the specific needs of both pro and new gamers.

Scalability and Flexibility: The dashboard has been designed with scalability in mind. As the platform grows, additional games, payment methods, and features can be easily integrated without disrupting the user experience.

Aesthetic Appeal: The dashboard’s design successfully blends modern aesthetics with functionality, offering a polished, gamified experience that will appeal to the target audience of gamers. The use of customizable themes adds an additional layer of personalization that resonates with the gaming community.

Increased Efficiency: The matchmaking, performance tracking, and communication features have been designed to optimize the time users spend on the platform. The streamlined design helps ensure that both new and pro gamers can focus on their primary goals—improving skills and offering professional coaching—without unnecessary friction.

The design of the dashboard for this gaming startup lays the foundation for a platform that will foster meaningful connections between new and pro gamers. Although the platform has not yet launched, the design is ready for implementation, and the feedback so far has been positive. The dashboard provides a scalable and flexible framework that will allow the startup to expand its offerings and grow alongside its user base.

This project highlights the importance of understanding user needs and delivering a solution that is not only functional but also engaging and aligned with the culture of the gaming industry. Once the platform goes live, it is expected that the carefully considered design will play a key role in its success.