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Summer Internship 2023
How Did I Revamp the User Experience for Columbia University's Center of Usability and Experience Design Website?
What's the Big Picture of My Summer Internship Project?
Duration
8 weeks
Team
Solo Project
Tools
What did I do?
Usability Testing
Lo-Fi Design
High-Fi Design

What Adventures Did I Embark On During My Internship?​
During my summer internship at CUIT, I actively supported the entire UX and digital production pipeline, contributing to essential meetings and meticulously documenting key discussions and decisions. My experience extended to conducting comprehensive UX research for Columbia University's Center of Usability and Experience Design Website, where I gathered and analyzed both quantitative and qualitative data, and executed usability tests. Additionally, I crafted wireframes, prototypes, and presentations to significantly enhance the user experience, showcasing my ability to translate complex user needs into practical digital solutions.
What Surprising Insights Did Usability Testing Uncover?
Underutilization of Key Content
Complex Website Navigation
Necessity for Website Redesign
High User Drop-off Rates
Which Metrics Showed Our Redesign Was a Hit?
Outcomes at a Glance
47%
Average Time on Page
9%
User Visits and Pageviews
13%
Exit Rate
How Did I Tackle the Final Design Phase?
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The website redesign project began with usability testing involving peers to identify effective elements and areas needing improvement. Based on this feedback, the designs were iterated approximately 10-15 times per section, refining each until the final design was achieved. After implementation, a comprehensive website analysis was conducted to evaluate changes in user interactions, ensuring the redesign effectively enhanced the overall user experience and met project objectives.
How Did I Elevate the Landing Page Experience?
The landing page succinctly introduces the center’s services and resources. It features an intuitive layout with direct access to information on usability testing, services offered, research methods and educational content, enhanced by prominent call-to-action buttons and straightforward navigation.
Centered Alignment of Text and Image
Improved Readability of Text Over Background
Enhanced Visual Appeal with Thumbnail Cards
2. How Did I Upgrade the Services Offered Page?
The subpage offers users a detailed outline of the various services provided by the center. Accessible directly from the landing page, this section effectively introduces the range of support options available, including usability testing, UX consultation, and design strategy services, to enhance project outcomes for researchers and developers within the university community. This page serves as a crucial resource for users seeking specialized assistance in improving user interfaces and experiences.
Refined Layout with Enhanced Clarity and User Engagement
Streamlined Service Categorization and Enhanced Content Clarity
Enhanced Table Design with Clickable Links and Optimized Icon Placement
What Are My Biggest Takeaways from This Internship?
1. Understanding Design Systems
Studying Columbia's design system deepened my appreciation for design language and the importance of intricate details.
2. Creative Exploration
Working solo on the redesign allowed me to fully explore and implement my creative ideas.
3. New Research and Accessibility Insights
I learned new research and design methods and gained insight into the importance of accessibility in university settings.
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