Discover

Define

Secondary Research:  To learn about the broader context of the problem we identified we conducted a secondary research. We started by looking into other zoo and similar locations which require navigational tools, ticketing information systems, and other intricate features for a diverse user base. Mobile applications like that of Walt Disney World offer unique services that help create personalized itineraries based on user input. When considering how to implement an integrated technology to our application to benefit guest experience, we looked at interactive interfaces implemented by Disney which allowed users to approach a physical statue and receive a digital response for their environmental interaction. This technology inspired us to create a scavenger hunt based game for the zoo which would encourage guests to explore facilities to gain badges at check points stationed through out.

Task Analysis: From our secondary research, we were able outline key tasks and the activities that users have to complete to solve the problem or achieve the goal. The task flow diagram provided us a birds eye view of the of the problem, enabling us to focus on the design for the tasks and activities that support user goals.

Technology: In order to address the problem of the Okc Zoo lacking interactive features we chose to incorporate the use of kiosk screens in our system. As of right now, the zoo does not use any kind of devices to entertain guests, our solution to this would be having kiosks at multiple exhibits that would not only educate tourists about the animals but have a scavenger hunt feature for users to play along with on their own devices.

Ideate

HI-fi prototype & test

Evaluation: The initial version of the wireframes was reviewed by 11 peer UX designers. Each evaluator received a clear overview of the problem statement, proposed solution, user flow diagram, and wireframes to help them understand the context. Before our peer evaluations, we were planning on using a unique home screen portal to manage all functions, after feedback from our peers though we concluded that a more traditional navigation bar at the bottom of the screen would be more familiar for users. We gained feedback that reflected formatting and display ambiguity. Wireframes were adjusted to have more responsive imagery reflecting user interaction as well as including real-life iPhone components to parallel real use.
These findings were then incorporated into the final version of the wireframes as shown in the figures below:

Landing page

Storyboard: We created a storyboard to illustrate the context in which the users completed the tasks and activities to achieve their goals. Our storyboard is about two people Bryan a dad in his 40s and Dylan a chaotic 7-year-old. Bryan wants to get his son Dylan out of the house so he’ll stop watching TV mindlessly. He decided to take his son to the Oklahoma City Zoo and used the app to plan their trip. The storyboard allowed us to notice subtle details and identify areas of the user's interaction with visiting the zoo that required focus to make the trip more enjoyable.

User flow: Through several iterations, we designed the ideal steps users would follow to complete a common task with the proposed solution. As shown in the User Flow diagram below, it takes the user through downloading the application and entering the physical zoo all the way to earning their first badge in the scavenger hunt system. At the top of the User Flow is the profile settings and login information, below this the process of viewing a dissected map for focused navigation. Further down you will find our showtime and current events page. Below this shows the flow of a user utilizing the scavenger hunt features on the app. They read the clues, then navigate physically in the zoo to the location of the animal they believe fits the clues they were presented and then tap into a check point to receive a badge for locating the animal on the scavenger hunt.

Sketches: After finalizing our user flow, we sketched our concept and explored various aspects of user interaction by visualizing them.

Lo-fi Prototype & Test

Wireframes: We iteratively developed the wireframes for the proposed functions of the application.

Interactive Prototype: The wireframes were then further developed into interactive prototype.

Heuristic Evaluation: A new set of 3 peer UX designers conducted a heuristic evaluation of the first version of the hi-fi prototype. Users provided feedback on various aspects of the application, highlighting several areas for improvement. They noted issues with map readability and features, expressing the need for clearer directions and notifications when planning routes and adding attractions to their itinerary. Additionally, users found navigational aspects confusing, with suggestions for improved layout and flexibility. Inconsistencies in ticket purchase verbiage, particularly regarding membership tickets, were also identified, prompting a recommendation to standardize language for clarity. Furthermore, users expressed confusion about their sign-in status due to a lack of indication, leading to a recommendation to make profile settings accessible from all screens and indicate user sign-in status with a responsive profile icon. Additionally, users desired more interactivity with the animal list and clearer purpose for its inclusion, suggesting the inclusion of animal photos and additional information upon interaction. Lastly, feedback on the language flow within the scavenger hunt revealed a need for revision to improve its natural flow and user experience. These findings were then incorporated into the final version of the prototype as shown the figures below:

Finally, we developed a landing page to promote our system.