For context…
Solutions overview…
To better understand the problem…
What already exists out there?
GoFundMe
Social Engagement: features like sharing and recent activity foster community
Motivation: clear goals motivate users to contribute
Diversity: wide range of fundraisers
Personal Focus: may not resonate with users looking to support broader causes
Information Overload: overwhelming number of fundraisers
Direct Org. Platforms
Credibility: know exactly where their donations go
Urgency: messaging encourages immediate action
Informative: provides detailed information about the cause
Existing Awareness: requires prior awareness of the organization
Limited Choice: often supports singular (type of) causes
Social Media
Accessibility: information is presented in digestible formats
Reach: allows for a broad reach to diverse audiences
Shareability: can increase visibility and engagement
Credibility Concerns: credibility of information can be unclear
Limited Action: often lacks clear CTAs directly in-app
What are the opportunities?
What attitudes do potential users have towards social impact and donating?
Affordability
Many feel that small donations won't make a tangible difference.
"Sometimes, I can only afford to give $5 or $10, but I feel like that wouldn't make a difference at all."
HMW ensure users feel fulfilled in their giving?
Credibility Concerns
Users want to donate to reputable organizations but struggle to identify which ones are impactful.
"I want to donate to a reputable organization that is actively doing good things, but I don't know which one is best or what action they're taking."
HMW streamline the process of learning, searching, and donating?
Impact Transparency
There is a strong desire to know how donations are used and their effects on communitieis.
"I want to know that my donation is actually helping people in need and not just funding office supplies for the company."
HMW build trust between users and organizations?
Who are the users?
The Passionate Activist
Driven by a desire to make a difference and values transparency while wanting to be part of a larger movement.
Often younger with limited financial resources. Frustration when they cannot see the tangible impact of their efforts.
Aims to get involved productively and seeks an active role in social change.
The Charitable Donor
Generally older and more financially stable, wanting to use their resources to support important causes while valuing trust and credibility.
Seeks assurance that their contributions make a meaningful difference but has limited time for thorough research on organizations.
Desires clear results from donations and aims to give back to their community by supporting reputable causes.
The Open Learner
Curious about global issues and values accessible, transparent information.
Not actively seeking to donate, often feels overwhelmed by the amount of available information and options.
Looks for informative content that sparks interest and may be motivated to support causes after gaining knowledge.
What were the design goals?
What did designing and iterating look like?
Final Design Solution…
Final Design Solution
Main Hub for Quick Information & Actions
Featured event/fundraiser that allows users to immediately donate or learn more
"My Charity Impacts" that shows the impact of the fundraisers that the user has donated to, fostering a sense of connection & accomplishment
Trending Articles and Causes that provide quick links to current events
"Local Fundraisers" that connect users to their local community and city
And, what did I learn on this journey?
Empowerment through Autonomy
Having the autonomy to make design decisions empowered me to take ownership of my work. Through this internship, I learned the importance of balancing independence with seeking guidance when needed. Moving forwards, I want to continue to embrace opportunities that allow for both creative freedom and constructive feedback to enhance my growth.
Importance of Effective Communication
I learned that effective communication is crucial for aligning expectations and ensuring project success. Regular check-ins and open dialogue with my team helped clarify objectives and foster collaboration that led to new ideas. I realized how important it is to prioritize transparent communication in order to build trust and also streamline the design process.
Thinking Outside the Box
Working with so many talented designers and creatives from different backgrounds inspired me to explore new things and challenge my design thinking. This experience reinforced the idea that design is a continuous learning journey for everyone, and that the best ideas come when we collaborate and learn from one another.