Skip to content

Play 03: Make it simple and intuitive

Mark Dixon edited this page Jun 8, 2016 · 3 revisions

Checklist

Use a simple and flexible design style guide for the service. Use the U.S. Web Design Standards as a default

We used Google Materials to guide the visual language and style of the app. For more information see:

Use the design style guide consistently for related digital services

The design was focused on mobile first and the desktop version matches this style to maintain consistency across platforms. See one of our early user interface design sketches here.

Give users clear information about where they are in each step of the process

The navigation bar is used as a way finder by using color changes. We also added labels to tie the icon to a named location. See one of our more advanced design mock-ups here.

Follow accessibility best practices to ensure all people can use the service

High contrast colors and a small color palette are used to maintain accessibility. See a more advanced design mockup here.

Provide users with a way to exit and return later to complete the process

Users have the ability to save information quickly. Changes to their profile are saved quickly with one tap. FFAs are saved as well through a “favoriting” selection.

Use language that is familiar to the user and easy to understand

The language is consistent throughout application and icons utilize user's mental models effectively.

Use language and design consistently throughout the service, including online and offline touch points

The application is a mobile first web app that includes a consistent visual language across platforms.

Key Questions

What primary tasks are the user trying to accomplish?

Obtaining additional assistance for the foster child. The user can edit their profile, send and received messages to/from their case worker, and search for FFA's in a specific ZIP code.

Is the language as plain and universal as possible?

The language considers the use of icons that match user's mental models.

What languages is your service offered in?

English, for the prototype.

If a user needs help while using the service, how do they go about getting it?

Getting help with the app or its capabilities is not within the scope of this prototype.

How does the service’s design visually relate to other government services?

A predominantly blue and white palette was used to match both government services as well as the Google Material style guide.