Userly is a web application prototype created to facilitate collaboration, networking, education, and inspiration among user experience designers in one location. Developed with a Lean UX framework by a student team at Kennesaw State University, the project explored user needs over two three-week sprints.

Designers lack a single platform for finding resources, connecting, and sharing work. Userly aims to bridge this gap, addressing challenges faced by students and professionals in the competitive UX landscape.

The Lean UX framework guided the project, incorporating Agile, design thinking, and iterative validation. A Lean UX Canvas helped define hypotheses, business goals, and key features. Two sprints were used to refine ideas based on feedback.

Developed proto-personas: Sabrina (junior), Phillip (mid-level), Sandra (career-changer).

Conducted six interviews to test low-fidelity prototypes, focusing on review threads, events, mentorship, and resources.

Used affinity mapping to synthesize findings.

Groups and mentorship were vital features.

Social media-style interactions were less relevant than anticipated.

Clear communication tools were crucial for success.

Revalidated assumptions and refined MVP features, emphasizing groups, mentorship, resources, and events.

Consolidated proto-personas to Phillip and Sandra for better alignment.

Tested high-fidelity prototypes with consistent branding and design styles.

Prioritized transparent communication and collaboration features.

Simplified group functionality into community and organizational types.

Added polish, adhering to style guides and design grids.

Userly: A Hub for UX Designers Userly offers groups, mentorship, and resource-sharing for UX professionals at all levels, addressing the fragmented nature of the current design community.

Embrace Feedback: Constructive criticism from 12 interviews improved the design but required adaptability.

Set Priorities: Balancing sprints, feedback, and academics demanded focused efforts on high-value features.

Stay Adaptable: Flexibility in response to challenges ensured meaningful results.