Scout
Scout is a platform designed to take the stress out of planning and organizing an outdoor activity. Users can plan, organize, and coordinate activities in one ecosystem.
View PrototypeView PrototypeScout
Scout is a platform designed to take the stress out of planning and organizing an outdoor activity. Users can plan, organize, and coordinate activities in one ecosystem.
View PrototypeMy Role
UX/UI Designer
Timeline
Oct 2022 - Nov 2022
Team
Project Manager
Developer
Developer
Tools
Figma
Adobe Photoshop
Adobe Illustrator
Adobe Photoshop
Adobe Illustrator
Overview
164.2 million outdoor participants in 2022!
More than half (54%) of Americans ages 6 and over participated in at least one outdoor activity in 2022, growing the outdoor recreation participant base to 164.2M participants in 2022. A major factor in this jump was the COVID pandemic that acted as a springboard for outdoor participation, pushing numbers to record levels. As the outdoor recreation community grows so too should the technology enabling it.
Problem
People struggle to plan and organize outdoor activities.
Planning and organizing an outdoor activity currently requires multiple platforms and various channels of communication. Making the process stressful and cumbersome. People tend to use at least 3 different platforms to plan and organize a trip causing important information to be lost in the ether. Misplaced information is not only irritating but can lead to serious safety hazards and unnecessary risk.
Solution
One ecosystem, less hassle.
We created a platform where users can plan, organize, and coordinate in one ecosystem. With Scout, users have access to fully customizable templates and dashboards where they can input and access their needed information. The collaborative and convenient tools can span from a leisurely hike to a multi-day, multi-activity trip.
Hit the ground running
Seamlessly explore activities and start planning.
Home Page- A simple way of selecting your desired activity.
- Ability to access popular activities or move into a custom selection.
Profile Page
- View your completed activities, personal gear inventory, and past favorites.
- Ability to access popular activities or move into a custom selection.
Profile Page
- View your completed activities, personal gear inventory, and past favorites.
Let the planning begin
Choose the template of your dreams.
Planning Page
- Toggle between numerous planning options.
- Start from scratch or utilize a pre-made resource.
Template Page
- Your activity home base.
- Input and sync the information and resources for your activity.
- Toggle between numerous planning options.
- Start from scratch or utilize a pre-made resource.
Template Page
- Your activity home base.
- Input and sync the information and resources for your activity.
Keep track of your gear
Say goodbye to lost and forgotten gear.
Gear Page
- Catalog and sort gear for your upcoming activity.
- Use tags to see what's ready and what needs work.
Gear Item Page
- Input your individual gear items. See their status and location.
- Browse newer models of your current gear and accompanying items.
- Catalog and sort gear for your upcoming activity.
- Use tags to see what's ready and what needs work.
Gear Item Page
- Input your individual gear items. See their status and location.
- Browse newer models of your current gear and accompanying items.
Hit the ground running
Seamlessly explore activities and start planning.
Home Page- A simple way of selecting your desired activity.
- Ability to access popular activities or move into a custom selection.
Profile Page
- View your completed activities, personal gear inventory, and past favorites.
- Ability to access popular activities or move into a custom selection.
Profile Page
- View your completed activities, personal gear inventory, and past favorites.
Let the planning begin
Choose the template of your dreams.
Planning Page
- Toggle between numerous planning options.
- Start from scratch or utilize a pre-made resource.
Template Page
- Your activity home base.
- Input and sync the information and resources for your activity.
- Toggle between numerous planning options.
- Start from scratch or utilize a pre-made resource.
Template Page
- Your activity home base.
- Input and sync the information and resources for your activity.
Keep track of your gear
Say goodbye to lost and forgotten gear.
Gear Page
- Catalog and sort gear for your upcoming activity.
- Use tags to see what's ready and what needs work.
Gear Item Page
- Input your individual gear items. See their status and location.
- Browse newer models of your current gear and accompanying items.
- Catalog and sort gear for your upcoming activity.
- Use tags to see what's ready and what needs work.
Gear Item Page
- Input your individual gear items. See their status and location.
- Browse newer models of your current gear and accompanying items.
Research
Assessing the terrain.
Before gathering hard data we needed to evaluate the current activity planning environment. To do this we ran a competitive analysis and conducted users interviews with the goal of answering the following statements.
1. Determine if the platform has interest from potential users.
2. Understand the process of how people currently plan outdoor activities.
3. Understand barriers faced while planning outdoor activities (in groups or individually).
4. Find out if this product could attract new users.
2. Understand the process of how people currently plan outdoor activities.
3. Understand barriers faced while planning outdoor activities (in groups or individually).
4. Find out if this product could attract new users.
Research - Competitive Analysis
Competition does not prioritize planning outdoor activities.
After analyzing the potential competitors one issue stood out. There is no single product that focuses on outdoor activities and allows for coordination and planning. The products touch on similar issues and needs, but none are combined in a convenient, meaningful way. We hypothesized that this may lead to a unique opportunity in the outdoor space. Find full report here
Research - User Interviews
Validating our assumptions.
We conducted interviews with our target audience to further understand how people plan and organize outdoor activities. The goal of these interviews was to find out if people would use a platform that facilitates the coordination/organization of outdoor activities. We wanted to learn the current methods being used (if applicable), understand any barriers faced while planning, and paint a picture of the interviewees experiences. Ideally, these would be personal and unique. Find full interview report here
Research - Interview Outcomes
After combing through the interview information and organizing them using an affinity map, a handful of common needs began to emerge. The biggest themes we discovered were centered around efficiency and simplification. Users wanted less brain drain from planning.
Users prioritized:
- An efficient tool to organize and plan trips
- The ability to plan trips with friends if needed
- A messaging platform other than text messaging
- A location for notes and ideas for previous and upcoming trips
- All needed information in one place (trail info, weather, gear, checklists)
- An efficient tool to organize and plan trips
- The ability to plan trips with friends if needed
- A messaging platform other than text messaging
- A location for notes and ideas for previous and upcoming trips
- All needed information in one place (trail info, weather, gear, checklists)
Users prioritized:
An efficient tool to organize and plan trips.
The ability to plan trips with friends if needed.
A messaging platform other than text messaging.
A location for notes and ideas for previous and upcoming trips.
All needed information in one place (trail info, weather, gear, checklists).
An efficient tool to organize and plan trips.
The ability to plan trips with friends if needed.
A messaging platform other than text messaging.
A location for notes and ideas for previous and upcoming trips.
All needed information in one place (trail info, weather, gear, checklists).
Research - User Personas
User personas were created to synthesize our research findings and consolidate our key insights. On the surface each persona appears to portray two very different outdoor participants. However, once their respective layers are pulled back each has a similar undercurrent of needs and pain points.
Research - Synthesis
Supporting a meaningful solution.
The research was boiled down into actionable statements. These were the building blocks of our design and helped to facilitate the ideation phase. We wanted the statements broad enough to support various solutions, but refined enough to retain a cohesive direction.
1. How might we provide multiple sources of outdoor information (trail info, weather, checklists, gear lists) in one easy-to-use location?
2. How might we track/manage outdoor gear and equipment to minimize hassle and avoid misplacing items?
1. How might we provide multiple sources of outdoor information (trail info, weather, checklists, gear lists) in one easy-to-use location?
2. How might we track/manage outdoor gear and equipment to minimize hassle and avoid misplacing items?
Building the Solution - Feature Prioritisation
Focusing on high yielding features.
Due to time and technical constraints, we prioritized features that will have the highest impact for the users. To do this we utilized a priority matrix where we honed in on low effort, high impact features. This criteria was established by focusing on what our user personas valued the most and then determining what was feasible to design and implement given our project timeline. The technical constraints we encountered revolved around the prototyping tools at our disposal, as well as our proficiency and expertise in handling them.
.png)
Building the Solution - Sitemap & Flows
Mindful of our users' situation.
We mapped key scenarios that focus on minimizing steps and time. This product is intended to decrease stress and complication so our goal was to keep the structure simple and concise. Where value was added through convenience/ease of use. The most important features can be accessed within 3 steps.
User Flows + Task Flows
In echoing the simplicity of the sitemap we decided to focus on two main flows - the planning feature and dashboard feature. By focusing on these features we were able to encapsulate the main needs and pain points of our users. To avoid confusion and extra steps we consolidated features such as gear inventory, trail conditions, weather, and group information into the dashboard.
Card sorting was utilized during this consolidation process to facilitated an assessment of the participants' grouping of items into predetermined categories, thereby enabling an understanding of how users structure content in a manner that resonates with them.
Card sorting was utilized during this consolidation process to facilitated an assessment of the participants' grouping of items into predetermined categories, thereby enabling an understanding of how users structure content in a manner that resonates with them.
Building the Solution - Wireframes
Low-Fidelity Wireframes
To get the process rolling we decided to focus our attention on following key screens. We chose the planning, template, and gear screens as they are the crux on our value proposition. Within these screens our user could plan and coordinate their activity. We favored a simple layout, easy to use buttons, and straightforward navigation. We envisioned the template page being the homebase for the activity, where all needed information could be accessed. Find complete wireframes here
Planning
Template
Gear
Building the Solution - Wireframes
Initial product wireframes.
To get the process rolling we decided to focus our attention on following key screens. We chose the planning, template, and gear screens as they are the crux of our value proposition. Within these screens our user could plan and coordinate their activity. We favored a simple layout, easy to use buttons, and straightforward navigation. We envisioned the template page being the homebase for the activity, where all needed information could be accessed. Full designs here
To get the process rolling we decided to focus our attention on following key screens. We chose the planning, template, and gear screens as they are the crux of our value proposition. Within these screens our user could plan and coordinate their activity. We favored a simple layout, easy to use buttons, and straightforward navigation. We envisioned the template page being the homebase for the activity, where all needed information could be accessed.
Planning Page
Template page
Gear Page
Gear Item Page
Profile
Building the Solution - Branding
Forming the visual identity.
The ethos of Scout is getting people outside. To display this ethos visually we decided to use earthy colors in combination with a sleek, friendly design. We wanted a design language that would facilitate outdoor activities while not becoming a time-sucking, attention grabbing product. The less time users spend in this product the better.
The logo was created by brainstorming ideas about nature, topography, mountains, trails, etc. The stylized "O" evolved naturally over repeated ideations. We believe it captures the product in a simple way that can be utilized across a variety of mediums. The typography and icons were selected to stay within the outdoor, natural theme.
The logo was created by brainstorming ideas about nature, topography, mountains, trails, etc. The stylized "O" evolved naturally over repeated ideations. We believe it captures the product in a simple way that can be utilized across a variety of mediums. The typography and icons were selected to stay within the outdoor, natural theme.
The ethos of Scout is getting people outside. To display this ethos visually we decided to use earthy colors in combination with a sleek, friendly design. We wanted a design language that would facilitate outdoor activities while not becoming a time-sucking, attention grabbing product. The less time users spend in this product the better.
The logo was created by brainstorming ideas about nature, topography, mountains, trails, etc. The stylized "O" evolved naturally over repeated ideations. We believe it captures the product in a simple way that can be utilized across a variety of mediums. The typography and icons were selected to stay within the outdoor, natural theme. Full library here
The logo was created by brainstorming ideas about nature, topography, mountains, trails, etc. The stylized "O" evolved naturally over repeated ideations. We believe it captures the product in a simple way that can be utilized across a variety of mediums. The typography and icons were selected to stay within the outdoor, natural theme. Full library here
Building the Solution - High Fidelity Wireframes
Wireframes reimagined.
The initial wireframes were transformed into high fidelity screens. These would be the basis for our user testing Figma prototype. The additional design layouts and initial color scheme were influenced by simplicity. Our intention was to incorporate a home page that was playful and whimsical. Giving the user a sense that the outdoors are a magical place of accessibility and ease. After the home page we wanted to guide the user to the planning and template pages where function and simplicity were our guide. The goal of this product is make planning an activity easier, therefore we tried to transmit that idea through these screens.
Home Page
Search
Template
Gear Item
Profile
Building the Solution - Usability Testing
Testing. Testing. Testing.
Five moderated usability tests helped to inform iterations that guided hierarchy and layout revisions. Participants used our Figma prototype to navigate three scenarios. We monitored their progress, movements, and general interactions with the product. Based on the testing results we were able to finetune the prototype.
Before
After
01
Improving planning page hierarchy
Users had a difficult time knowing where to start.
To alleviate this issue additional text was added to assist with explanations. Tabs were used to reconfigure the page navigation into a more intuitive layout.
To alleviate this issue additional text was added to assist with explanations. Tabs were used to reconfigure the page navigation into a more intuitive layout.
Home Page• Homepage explains the product
• Moves the user to the planning page
Profile Page
• The user can view their completed activities, personal gear inventory, and favorites
• Moves the user to the planning page
Profile Page
• The user can view their completed activities, personal gear inventory, and favorites
Home Page• Homepage explains the product
• Moves the user to the planning page
Profile Page
• The user can view their completed activities, personal gear inventory, and favorites
• Moves the user to the planning page
Profile Page
• The user can view their completed activities, personal gear inventory, and favorites
01
Improving planning page hierarchy
Users had a difficult time knowing where to start.
To alleviate this issue additional text was added to assist with explanations. Tabs were used to reconfigure the page navigation into a more intuitive layout.
To alleviate this issue additional text was added to assist with explanations. Tabs were used to reconfigure the page navigation into a more intuitive layout.
Before
After
Home Page• Homepage explains the product
• Moves the user to the planning page
Profile Page
• The user can view their completed activities, personal gear inventory, and favorites
• Moves the user to the planning page
Profile Page
• The user can view their completed activities, personal gear inventory, and favorites
Home Page• Homepage explains the product
• Moves the user to the planning page
Profile Page
• The user can view their completed activities, personal gear inventory, and favorites
• Moves the user to the planning page
Profile Page
• The user can view their completed activities, personal gear inventory, and favorites
02
Adding triggers to enhance reliability
Users wanted a better way to see what items they might be missing.
We included specific color triggers to signify which items need to be addressed. With a quick scan users can spot discrepancies.
We included specific color triggers to signify which items need to be addressed. With a quick scan users can spot discrepancies.
Before
After
Home Page• Homepage explains the product
• Moves the user to the planning page
Profile Page
• The user can view their completed activities, personal gear inventory, and favorites
• Moves the user to the planning page
Profile Page
• The user can view their completed activities, personal gear inventory, and favorites
Home Page• Homepage explains the product
• Moves the user to the planning page
Profile Page
• The user can view their completed activities, personal gear inventory, and favorites
• Moves the user to the planning page
Profile Page
• The user can view their completed activities, personal gear inventory, and favorites
02
Adding triggers to enhance reliability
Users wanted a better way to see what items they might be missing.
We included specific color triggers to signify which items need to be addressed. With a quick scan users can spot discrepancies.
We included specific color triggers to signify which items need to be addressed. With a quick scan users can spot discrepancies.
Before
After
Home Page• Homepage explains the product
• Moves the user to the planning page
Profile Page
• The user can view their completed activities, personal gear inventory, and favorites
• Moves the user to the planning page
Profile Page
• The user can view their completed activities, personal gear inventory, and favorites
Home Page• Homepage explains the product
• Moves the user to the planning page
Profile Page
• The user can view their completed activities, personal gear inventory, and favorites
• Moves the user to the planning page
Profile Page
• The user can view their completed activities, personal gear inventory, and favorites
Before
After
03
Revamping the color scheme
Users wanted more color contrast across various screens.
We decided to change the colors to darker, higher contrast scheme. The blue conveys the outdoor nature of our product while improving contrast for users.
We decided to change the colors to darker, higher contrast scheme. The blue conveys the outdoor nature of our product while improving contrast for users.
Home Page• Homepage explains the product
• Moves the user to the planning page
Profile Page
• The user can view their completed activities, personal gear inventory, and favorites
• Moves the user to the planning page
Profile Page
• The user can view their completed activities, personal gear inventory, and favorites
Home Page• Homepage explains the product
• Moves the user to the planning page
Profile Page
• The user can view their completed activities, personal gear inventory, and favorites
• Moves the user to the planning page
Profile Page
• The user can view their completed activities, personal gear inventory, and favorites
03
Revamping the color scheme
Users wanted more color contrast across various screens.
We decided to change the colors to darker, higher contrast scheme. The blue conveys the outdoor nature of our product while improving contrast for users.
We decided to change the colors to darker, higher contrast scheme. The blue conveys the outdoor nature of our product while improving contrast for users.
Before
After
Home Page• Homepage explains the product
• Moves the user to the planning page
Profile Page
• The user can view their completed activities, personal gear inventory, and favorites
• Moves the user to the planning page
Profile Page
• The user can view their completed activities, personal gear inventory, and favorites
Home Page• Homepage explains the product
• Moves the user to the planning page
Profile Page
• The user can view their completed activities, personal gear inventory, and favorites
• Moves the user to the planning page
Profile Page
• The user can view their completed activities, personal gear inventory, and favorites
Final MVP Product
One ecosystem, less hassle.
Solution
Interactive prototype.
Conclusion
Final thoughts.
Transforming a conceptual idea into a functional prototype was a gratifying experience. It was particularly rewarding given that a product of this nature is something that I would personally use. Getting to interact with a diverse group of participants with a wide range of experiences and perspectives was the most fulfilling aspect of this project. This reinforced for me the importance of human-centered design as I was speaking with real people about their real needs and wants.
With additional resources, I would have allocated more time towards refining the structured hierarchy of information on each page and iterated through a greater number of design concepts. In addition, I would have concentrated my efforts on fine-tuning the UI by ensuring that elements such as color scheme and card layouts were tailored to the target user group. Lastly, expanding my research efforts and soliciting feedback from users who have a direct association with the relevant industry (i.e. outdoor guiding companies) would have been fascinating and provided valuable business insights for the project.
With additional resources, I would have allocated more time towards refining the structured hierarchy of information on each page and iterated through a greater number of design concepts. In addition, I would have concentrated my efforts on fine-tuning the UI by ensuring that elements such as color scheme and card layouts were tailored to the target user group. Lastly, expanding my research efforts and soliciting feedback from users who have a direct association with the relevant industry (i.e. outdoor guiding companies) would have been fascinating and provided valuable business insights for the project.
© 2024 Object.Yard