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Grad.Match Application
Project Type:
UI/UX Design
Date:
June 2024
Role:
Business Strategy, Content Development, Design, Wireframing, Prototyping
Tools:
Figma, InDesign, Photoshop
Link:
In an ever-evolving job market, recent graduates often find themselves navigating a sea of generic job hunting platforms that fail to address their unique needs and aspirations. This project aimed to design a completely new app from the ground up, emphasizing strategic design for business to bridge this gap. The result is **Grad.Match**, an innovative job hunting app tailored specifically for graduates from design programs.
1. Objectives and Strategic Design Process
The primary goal of this project was to create an app that not only connects recent design graduates with potential employers but also offers a holistic platform for professional growth. To achieve this, the development process was rooted in a comprehensive strategic design framework, encompassing several key elements:
1.1. Unique Value Proposition:
Grad.Match differentiates itself by focusing on the critical aspect of portfolio showcasing within the job hunting app. Unlike traditional platforms, Grad.Match integrates a robust portfolio feature, allowing users to present their work visually and contextually to potential employers.
1.2. Competitor Research:
A thorough analysis of existing job hunting platforms revealed gaps and opportunities. By understanding what competitors offered—and where they fell short—Grad.Match was designed to fill these voids, particularly in areas of networking, skill development, and user experience.
1.3. Lean Canvas:
The lean canvas model was employed to map out the core components of the business strategy. This included identifying customer segments, defining unique value propositions, delineating key activities, and outlining cost structures and revenue streams.
1.4. Customer Profiling:
Detailed customer profiles were created to understand the target audience deeply. This involved identifying the pain points and aspirations of recent design graduates, ensuring that the app’s features were aligned with their specific needs.
1.5. UI/UX Research:
User interface and user experience research was pivotal. The design aimed for an optimal user experience, focusing on intuitive navigation, visually appealing interfaces, and seamless interactions to keep users engaged and satisfied.
2. Grad.Match Features and Value Proposition
Grad.Match stands out with its comprehensive suite of features designed to support the career advancement of design graduates:
2.1. Portfolio Showcasing:
Users can create detailed portfolios that highlight their skills, projects, and accomplishments, providing a compelling narrative to potential employers.
2.2. Networking Opportunities:
The app facilitates connections with industry professionals, peers, and mentors, fostering a supportive community and offering seminar opportunities to expand knowledge and networks.
2.3. In-App Skill Development Tools:
Grad.Match includes tools and resources for ongoing skill development, helping users stay current with industry trends and enhance their employability.
The combination of these features ensures that Grad.Match is not just a job hunting app but a comprehensive career-building platform.
Conclusion
Grad.Match was meticulously designed with a strategic business approach to meet the unique needs of design program graduates. By focusing on portfolio showcasing, providing networking and seminar opportunities, and integrating skill development tools, Grad.Match delivers an optimal user experience that sets it apart in the competitive landscape of job hunting apps. The project exemplifies how thoughtful, strategic design can create a product that is both innovative and deeply aligned with its users' needs.































