Qwale Credit Builder UX & Logo Design

Elevating Qwale Credit Builder: Intuitive Mobile Experience & Revitalized Brand Identity

Project Overview

In the Qwale project, I played a pivotal role as the lead UX/UI designer, steering both the creative and functional aspects of the app. I undertook an intensive user research phase, shaped the information architecture, and crafted intuitive wireframes. Beyond design, I championed the logo's redesign, ensuring alignment with the brand's vision. Collaborating closely with developers, I ensured a fluid transition from design to development. Additionally, I devised a forward-thinking strategy, laying down plans for future feature enhancements to ensure Qwale's continued relevance and user satisfaction.
Duration
6 Weeks
tools
Adobe Illustrator | Sketch | InVision Studio
keywords
Fintech Start-Up | App UI/UX | Logo Design | User Testing | Award-Winning Design
Qwale App mockups with the link to hi-fi prototypes

Project Plan

Discover
Goals & Requirements
User Interview
Competitor Analysis
Define
User Personas & Journeys Maps
Story Mapping
Information Architecture
Design
Wireframes & User Testing
Brand Identity & New Logo
Hi-Fi Prototypes & Internal Testing
Deliver
Handover to Developers
Product Launch Preparations
Future Planning

Discover

Client's goals & requirements
Competitor Analysis
Based on the competitive analysis, some potential weaknesses of Qwale's competitors that Qwale could leverage to differentiate itself and gain a competitive advantage are:
1. Limited target audience:
Some competitors have a narrow focus on a specific demographic, such as students or small business owners, which may limit their market reach. Qwale could target a broader audience to appeal to a wider range of users.
2. Complexity:
Some competitors offer a lot of features and functionalities, which can be overwhelming and confusing for users. Qwale could differentiate itself by offering a more streamlined and user-friendly experience, with a focus on simplicity and ease of use.
3. Lack of educational resources:
Some competitors do not offer educational resources or guidance on credit building and financial literacy. Qwale could provide educational content and resources to help users improve their credit scores and make informed financial decisions.
4. High fees:
Some competitors charge high fees for their services, which may deter potential users. Qwale could offer more affordable pricing plans to attract cost-conscious users.
User Interview
🔵 Participants: 10 participants (Age 18-50, Diverse Financial Backgrounds)
🟢 Interview Method: One-on-one, in-person, approximately 45 minutes each
🟡 Objective:
The primary goal of these interviews was to gain insights into the potential users' needs, pain points, and preferences regarding their experiences with credit-building tools, specifically with the Qwale website.
Key Questions:
1. How often do you check your credit score, and what tools do you currently use for this?
2. What challenges or pain points have you experienced while using the current Qwale website or any other credit-building tools?
3. What features do you find most useful in a credit-building tool?
4. What features do you wish existed but are currently missing from available tools?
5. How important is the security of your financial information to you on a scale of 1 to 10?
6. Do you prefer using a mobile app or a web platform for managing your credit?
7. Would you appreciate real-time notifications or alerts related to your credit score? Why or why not?
8. How important is educational content about credit-building for you?
9. What would make you choose Qwale over other credit-building options?
🟠 Key Findings:
1. User Needs and Pain Points with current Qwale website- Navigation Difficulties: 8 out of 10 users found the website's navigation to be non-intuitive.- Lack of Information: 6 out of 10 users expressed a need for more educational content about credit-building.- Speed and Performance: 7 out of 10 users faced slow load times on the website.3. Preferences for Credit-Building Tools- Mobile App: 8 out of 10 users would prefer a mobile application over a web platform.- Notifications: 9 out of 10 users would like to have real-time notifications for credit score changes and due payments.2. Feature Prioritization- Credit Score Tracking: 9 out of 10 users considered real-time credit score tracking to be very important.- Security: 10 out of 10 users emphasized the need for robust security features.- Educational Content: 7 out of 10 users expressed the desire for tips and articles on credit-building.
🟣 Recommendations:
Navigation: Rework the information architecture to make the app/website more user-friendly.Mobile App: Given the user preference for mobile applications, focusing on mobile-first design is advisable.Content: Include educational
articles, tips, and FAQs
on credit-building.Features: Prioritize the development of real-time credit score tracking and robust security features.

Define

User personas & journey maps
I developed three key user personas based on user interviews—"The Financial Newbie," "The Busy Professional," and "The Credit Rebuilder"—each with a tailored user journey map. These guide our design choices, helping us cater to specific needs and enhance user retention.
Story Mapping
A comprehensive user flow was crafted to identify the essential journey our users take within the app. This visual mapping helps pinpoint crucial touchpoints and potential bottlenecks in the user experience. I have also prioritized features for Minimum Viable Product (MVP) development, focusing on high-impact functionalities that directly address user needs and pain points. This dual approach ensures that our MVP not only offers valuable features but also provides a seamless, user-friendly experience.
Story mapping with users flows and feature prioritized for MVP development.
Information Architecture
The Information Architecture outlines the app's core screens and flows, covering both MVP and future features. This blueprint helps us create a scalable and user-friendly structure from the start.
Information architecture

Design

Wireframes & User Testing
Usability tests on the MVP were conducted with the same interviewees from our initial research. The testing revealed key insights, such as the need to simplify the onboarding tutorial, add back buttons for easier navigation, and address user concerns about data security.
Wireframes for MVP of Qwale app
Brand Identity & New Logo
For the Qwale project, I led a logo redesign to modernize the brand. Using various design elements, I aimed for a professional yet approachable look that aligns with Qwale's focus on accessible credit-building.
Comparison between old and new logos of Qwale
We initially used a sky blue template for our MVP wireframes and got mostly positive feedback. Some users also suggested purple. After researching color psychology, we found both colors fit well with our credit-boosting app's goals.
Ultimately, we chose metallic light components on a dark background for clarity and a sense of privacy. The final logo has sleek text and color gradients for a trustworthy, energetic look. It visually represents Qwale's mission to make credit-building easy and effective for users.
Hi-Fi Prototypes & Internal Testing
In the sign-up flow, I focused on minimizing user frustration and streamlining the sign-up flow to create a smooth and seamless experience for every user.The input forms for collecting personal information are break down into sections to guide our users step by step and let them feel more patient to fill them out.
The integration of informative and user-friendly error messages ensured that users receive clear and actionable guidance when encountering errors during the sign-up process. Sensitive personal information was concealed during data entry and users are reassured with messages highlighting the app's commitment to safeguarding their data privacy. Additionally, I strategically placed intuitive buttons that allow users to easily navigate backward if they need to review or modify their information.

Deliver

I closely collaborated with developers to bring the Qwale Credit Builder app from concept to reality, ensuring a seamless transition between design and implementation. As we look to the future, I've already drafted plans to enrich the app with additional features that will continue to meet the evolving needs of our user base.
future Steps
1. Implement Advanced Security Measures: Two-factor authentication and biometric login.
2. Real-Time Alerts: Push notifications for credit changes or suspicious activities.
3. Social Sharing: Feature to share credit milestones with friends or on social media.
4. In-App Marketplace: Partnering with financial institutions to offer special deals or products.
5. User Community: A forum or chat feature where users can share tips and stories.
6. Integrate Financial Coaching: Virtual coaching sessions or AI-driven tips for credit improvement.

Recognitions

Awards & Design Competitions
- A’ Design Award & Competition 2024 – Iron
- Muse Creative Awards 2024 – Silver
- INDIGO Design Award 2024 – Silver & Bronze
- Hermes Creative Awards 2024 – Gold
- AVA Digital Awards 2024 – Gold
- Paris Design Awards 2024 – Honorable Mention
- Graphis Design 2025 – Silver