Arizona Mobile Library Reservations

Project Overview

The University of Arizona Library Reservations project aimed to enhance the user experience of the official app for students at the University of Arizona by enabling them to make library reservations from their phones. Tested in Fall of 2024, users had positive reactions to the library reservations pages. The primary goal was to provide users with a visually comfortable and accessible alternative to the app's default light mode

User-Centric Approach

The decision to introduce a library reservations feature to our mobile app was guided by user feedback collected through the annual survey and additional research efforts that I personally developed and conducted. By focusing on the user experience, the project aimed to address the specific preferences and needs of the University of Arizona community, enabling students, staff, and faculty to make library reservations conveniently online.

To identify the key requirements for this feature, we conducted in-person interviews and implemented a feedback board. These efforts allowed us to determine the top priorities for users who rely on library reservations.

Through our research, we uncovered a strong demand for an improved mobile solution for library reservations. Additionally, we identified gaps in the current reservation system and explored how the University of Arizona Mobile App could bridge these gaps. Key enhancements include:

Comprehensive Search: The ability to search for library spaces across all campus buildings.
Real-Time Availability: Displaying when the next booking begins, improving planning and efficiency.
Streamlined Adjustments: Simplifying the process of modifying reservation times.

By addressing these pain points, we ensured that the new feature not only met user expectations but also enhanced the overall functionality of the University of Arizona Mobile App.

Scope

The project scope went beyond simply integrating the Library Systems API. It centered on designing and delivering a seamless, mobile-friendly, and intuitive experience for creating library reservations. This approach aimed to not only enhance functionality but also improve usability, ensuring users could effortlessly navigate and complete their reservations on the go.

Design Iterations and Refinement

Multiple iterations of the design process were undertaken to refine the library reservations feature, particularly the priority and filter type of each option for the users. Each iteration involved careful consideration of user feedback, leading to adjustments aimed at optimizing the visual appeal and usability of the feature. The iterative nature of the design process demonstrated a commitment to continuous improvement.

The initial stages of designing the library reservations feature focused on displaying all available filter options supported by the library API. However, user feedback revealed a preference for a more streamlined interface. Users favored a "See More" option that would keep less commonly used filters hidden within a secondary menu, making the primary interface cleaner and more intuitive.

Another key design alteration involved determining the most effective filter types for each category. Based on user feedback, we implemented calendar selections for date-specific filters, dropdowns for longer lists, toggles for binary choices, and chip selections for quick, multi-option inputs. This approach ensured the filtering process was intuitive, efficient, and aligned with user preferences.

ScreenRecording_01-24-2025 21-56-55_1.mp4

In our latest iteration, we focused on building components and variables within our design system. This included utilizing style tokens to allow users to view their reservations in their preferred system settings, whether light or dark mode. This refinement not only enhanced the user interface for improved usability but also established clear system guidelines tailored to the needs of both designers and developers. Additionally, the components were designed to ensure seamless updates and consistency in future iterations, streamlining collaboration and maintenance across teams.

We refined our prototype, ensuring an accessible and intuitive experience for users.

Collaboration with Development Team

Close collaboration between the development team, designers, and prototype testers was central to the project's success. Through effective communication and coordination, we seamlessly integrated and enhanced the existing library reservations system for a mobile-friendly format. This collaborative effort ensured technical considerations were addressed while maintaining accessibility and usability.

The teamwork was instrumental in building a robust prototype, with developers, designers, and users providing valuable feedback to refine design quality and feasibility. This strong partnership and open communication were critical in driving the project forward.

During the testing phase, developers and users took the lead in identifying and resolving bugs or issues within the reservation system. This user-focused approach ensured a smooth, reliable, and bug-free experience for all users upon deployment.

Positive Outcomes

The prototype testing phase resulted in enhanced user satisfaction and a visually appealing app interface, with user feedback highlighting the positive impact on the overall experience.

Teamwork played a pivotal role in these favorable outcomes. The collaboration between designers and developers proved essential, emphasizing the importance of interdisciplinary teamwork and the synergy it brings to successful projects. The iterative feedback loop between designers, users, and developers not only improved the product’s quality but also fostered a culture of continuous improvement within the team.

By understanding user preferences and addressing their needs, we were able to create a more intuitive and satisfying interface. This project underscored the value of a user-centric approach, effective teamwork, and collaboration in delivering impactful design and development results.

Page updated

Google Sites

Report abuse