Squad

Overview

"Squad" is a mobile application designed to provide Black entrepreneurs with a platform for knowledge exchange, mentorship, and business promotion. Recognizing a gap in accessible resources and community support, the project aimed to create a space that fosters empowerment and collaboration among Black business owners.

Role

• Led UX flows and visual design.

• Contributed to the creation of a cohesive design system.

• Collaborated with an illustrator to develop unique visual assets.

• Designed app store assets to enhance visibility and appeal.

• Oversaw the project from conception to launch within a 3.5-month timeline.

Design Process

Information Architecture & User Flows: Developed comprehensive wireframes and user flows to map out the user journey, ensuring intuitive navigation and identifying potential gaps in the experience.

Content & Personalization:

• Crafted conversational copy with respect and purpose at its core.

• Implemented background patterns allowing for personalization, with future iterations planned to include user-uploaded images.

• Established a vetting process to authenticate Black-owned businesses, awarding them appropriate badges to signify authenticity.

Design Process

Information Architecture & User Flows: Developed comprehensive wireframes and user flows to map out the user journey, ensuring intuitive navigation and identifying potential gaps in the experience.

Visual Design & Branding:

• Selected bold, vibrant colors symbolizing strength, unity, and diversity.

• Partnered with an African-descent illustrator to craft culturally resonant illustrations, driving the app's iconography and visual style.

• Designed header backgrounds and selected icons that aligned with the app's delightful yet user-friendly tone.

Launch & Impact

• Successfully launched the app, receiving positive feedback from beta users who praised its authenticity and relevance.

• Witnessed rapid community engagement, with businesses connecting and profiles being added hourly.

• Introduced a "coming soon" interactive section within the app, encouraging users to submit ideas and feedback.

• Identified "Groups" as a popular feature request, leading to a roadmap that includes live seminars, resource calls, and potential subscription-based access to celebrity business owners.