Spare8 : Micro-investment App
Spare8 : Micro-investment App
Spare8 : Micro-investment App
This case study unveils how I as a solo designer scaled Spare8's user base from 10k to 1+ Lakhs in a span of 3 months.
Spare8 is embarked on a journey to streamline how individuals manage, utilize, visualize, and conserve their finances. It's a fresh approach to Micro-investment in digital gold, a platform residing on your mobile device, fashioned for your modern lifestyle.
Spare8 is embarked on a journey to streamline how individuals manage, utilize, visualize, and conserve their finances. It's a fresh approach to Micro-investment in digital gold, a platform residing on your mobile device, fashioned for your modern lifestyle.
Role
Role
Product Design, User Research, Usability Testing, Motion Design
Product Design, User Research, Usability Testing, Motion Design
My Team
My Team
Sole Designer
Sole Designer
2 Co-Founders
2 Co-Founders
2 Developers
2 Developers
20x
20x
20x
Total Increase in active users
Total Increase in active users
85%
85%
85%
Increase in user retention
Increase in user retention
92%
92%
92%
Onboarding Completion
Onboarding Completion
A Glimpse into the interface
A Glimpse into the interface
Background
Background
Taking the step to become part of a startup is never one to take lightly. It often necessitates laboring on weekends and outside traditional work hours to get things off the ground, evidencing true leadership.
Taking the step to become part of a startup is never one to take lightly. It often necessitates laboring on weekends and outside traditional work hours to get things off the ground, evidencing true leadership.
Key Achievements Unlocked
Key Achievements Unlocked
The Process
The Timeline & Process
The Process
This was not a "Revamp"
This was not a "Revamp"
This was not a "Revamp"
From Frustration to Growth: Re Building the Spare8 App
The First version of Spare8 app live before I joined had a total of 10k users over a span of 1 year, as discussed it was just the vision of the founders made into an app in a very raw form. While having good intentions Spare8 suffered from several user problems that hindered adoption and engagement.
The First version of Spare8 app live before I joined had a total of 10k users over a span of 1 year, as discussed it was just the vision of the founders made into an app in a very raw form. While having good intentions Spare8 suffered from several user problems that hindered adoption and engagement.
It was evident from the response and comments that the basis of this app was weak and lacked meaningful user study findings, which was the reason for its poor performance.
It was evident from the response and comments that the basis of this app was weak and lacked meaningful user study findings, which was the reason for its poor performance.
Thus, we had to start from scratch
Thus, we had to start from scratch
Thus, we had to start from scratch
Problem Statement
Problem Statement
How can we encourage the vast majority of Indians, namely 97% who are not currently engaged in saving or investing, to establish and maintain more secure financial practices? How could we close the evident lack of financial knowledge and push people toward a future that's more stable and secure?
How can we encourage the vast majority of Indians, namely 97% who are not currently engaged in saving or investing, to establish and maintain more secure financial practices? How could we close the evident lack of financial knowledge and push people toward a future that's more stable and secure?
"How can we introduce a mechanism that empowers users to save more effectively and fosters a culture of financial resilience for all?"
"How can we introduce a mechanism that empowers users to save more effectively and fosters a culture of financial resilience for all?"
"How can we introduce a mechanism that empowers users to save more effectively and fosters a culture of financial resilience for all?"
In addressing the savings landscape, Spare8 seeks to bridge the gap in financial well-being.
In addressing the savings landscape, Spare8 seeks to bridge the gap in financial well-being.
Research
Research
I did some primary & secondary research to get context and understand the user motivations and pain points with investment.
I did some primary & secondary research to get context and understand the user motivations and pain points with investment.
How much money do Indians have in their savings account for emergency fund?
How much money do Indians have in their savings account for emergency fund?
How much money do Indians have in their savings account for emergency fund?
3 Personas Identified and Questions asked
3 Personas Identified and Questions asked
102 Respondents 32 Questions
102 Respondents 32 Questions
102 Respondents 32 Questions
Mapping Responses
Mapping Responses
Below are the insights/thought processes concerns of the target users gathered.
Below are the insights/thought processes concerns of the target users gathered.
System Used -
System Used -
System Used -
Responses were marked according to the user type and then grouped into categories.
Responses were marked according to the user type and then grouped into categories.
Responses were marked according to the user type and then grouped into categories.
Insights drawn from the groups were prioritized based on the no. of markers from each user segment, ones with the highest red flags were on top.
Insights drawn from the groups were prioritized based on the no. of markers from each user segment, ones with the highest red flags were on top.
Decoding Insights
Decoding Insights
These insights were derived from responses classified based on the user categories.
These insights were derived from responses classified based on the user categories.
45%
45%
45%
candidates felt they didn’t have the financial resources to start investing.
candidates felt they didn’t have the financial resources to start investing.
👀
👀
👀
The insights made it clear that once these obstructions were taken care of they would consider investing.
The insights made it clear that once these obstructions were taken care of they would consider investing.
35%
35%
35%
didn’t want their money to get tied up, preferred liquidity over wealth.
didn’t want their money to get tied up, preferred liquidity over wealth.
20%
20%
20%
had no idea where to start, investing sounded like a daunting process.
had no idea where to start, investing sounded like a daunting process.
Crafting the Tailored Solution
Crafting the Tailored Solution
Based on all the research results these are the statements that made sense about our end users
Based on all the research results these are the statements that made sense about our end users
Defining the MVP
Defining the MVP
Based on our interviews and analysis, we understood the priority of different features. This helped us set our design goals and eventually move on to information architecture, we approached this with a user centric approach
Based on our interviews and analysis, we understood the priority of different features. This helped us set our design goals and eventually move on to information architecture, we approached this with a user centric approach
Product Vision
Product Vision
This is what spare8 might look like
This is what spare8 might look like
Now, let me take you through behind the scenes,
Now, let me take you through behind the scenes,
Now, let me take you through behind the scenes,
Stage 1
Stage 1
Building the skeleton and feature prioritization
Building the skeleton and feature prioritization
Now that the solution was well outlined, the next step was to create a user friendly and intiutive Information architecture and creating the sitemap.
Now that the solution was well outlined, the next step was to create a user friendly and intiutive Information architecture and creating the sitemap.
The three of us - Me and the founders, went through the site map and prioritized features according to different criterias from the user goal's perspective and the business goals, here the purple dots represent the level of priority,
The three of us - Me and the founders, went through the site map and prioritized features according to different criterias from the user goal's perspective and the business goals, here the purple dots represent the level of priority,
3 Dots = High Priority ; 2 Dots = Medium ; 1 Dot = Low
3 Dots = High Priority ; 2 Dots = Medium ; 1 Dot = Low
Ideal User Journey
Ideal User Journey
We took all the data and information gathered from our research to compile a hypothesized ideal user journey map.
We took all the data and information gathered from our research to compile a hypothesized ideal user journey map.
Stage 2
Stage 2
Wireframes
Wireframes
I made the wireframes keeping the feature priorities in mind, the end to end user flows had intact. Some major task flows were the daily savings set up and the withdraw flow.
I made the wireframes keeping the feature priorities in mind, the end to end user flows had intact. Some major task flows were the daily savings set up and the withdraw flow.
Stage 3
Stage 3
Visual Direction
Visual Direction
Being the only designer, I constructed the design system right from its inception, paying thorough attention to align all visual aspects with the distinct branding set by Watermelon Design Studio. From selecting color schemes to defining typography, I took charge of creating a coherent and striking user interface that strongly reflects the brand's character.
Being the only designer, I constructed the design system right from its inception, paying thorough attention to align all visual aspects with the distinct branding set by Watermelon Design Studio. From selecting color schemes to defining typography, I took charge of creating a coherent and striking user interface that strongly reflects the brand's character.
Branding
Branding
Creating the Design System
Creating the Design System
In formulating Spare8's guiding design elements, my objective was not solely concentrated on its visual aspect. Each of these elements bears significance, assuring that every interaction with the application is more than just an attractive interface but proffers substantial value. These foundational elements weave together to foster a design that hits a chord with users and aligns flawlessly with Spare8's goal -
In formulating Spare8's guiding design elements, my objective was not solely concentrated on its visual aspect. Each of these elements bears significance, assuring that every interaction with the application is more than just an attractive interface but proffers substantial value. These foundational elements weave together to foster a design that hits a chord with users and aligns flawlessly with Spare8's goal -
"Enabling a new breed of investors."
"Enabling a new breed of investors."
"Enabling a new breed of investors."
Design principles
Design principles
Color Palette
Color Palette
Spare8's color scheme was primarily developed to entice novice and young investors. The hue of purple also symbolizes opulence and majesty, positioning it as a top-tier product.
Spare8's color scheme was primarily developed to entice novice and young investors. The hue of purple also symbolizes opulence and majesty, positioning it as a top-tier product.
Typography
Typography
Our typeface selection indeed included two fonts - Archivo and Inter.
Archivo was picked due to its adventurous and contemporary style, with its sturdy and geometric form, it signifies dependability and leadership. Simultaneously, Inter, a flexible sans-serif font, embodies Spare8's dedication to unfussiness and broad-mindedness. Its equalized and unbiased look guarantees a pleasant reading journey, making it the perfect fit for the main body text.
Our typeface selection indeed included two fonts - Archivo and Inter.
Archivo was picked due to its adventurous and contemporary style, with its sturdy and geometric form, it signifies dependability and leadership. Simultaneously, Inter, a flexible sans-serif font, embodies Spare8's dedication to unfussiness and broad-mindedness. Its equalized and unbiased look guarantees a pleasant reading journey, making it the perfect fit for the main body text.
Icons
Icons
I employed a mix of solid and linear icons to differentiate primary, secondary, and informational utilization.
I employed a mix of solid and linear icons to differentiate primary, secondary, and informational utilization.
Components & Styles
Components & Styles
and more
and more
Some Lotties I made
Some Lotties I made
As the sole visual creator, I refined my motion design expertise to ensure the micro-interactions remained entertaining!
As the sole visual creator, I refined my motion design expertise to ensure the micro-interactions remained entertaining!
How Round Ups Work
How Round Ups Work
Iterations and Challenges
Iterations and Challenges
Iterations and Challenges
Investment Overview Card
Investment Overview Card
Each iteration was tested with the users and the results were analysed, with the primary focus on the task to be completed as the first investment of the user on spare8.
Each iteration was tested with the users and the results were analysed, with the primary focus on the task to be completed as the first investment of the user on spare8.
Iteration A
Iteration A
Task Completion Rate
Task Completion Rate
60%
60%
Time On Task
Time On Task
12 Seconds
12 Seconds
Net Promoter Score
Net Promoter Score
65
65
General Feedback
General Feedback
"I am having trouble reading the content"
"I am having trouble reading the content"
"Took me some time to find the investment page"
"Took me some time to find the investment page"
Iteration B
Iteration B
Task Completion Rate
Task Completion Rate
75%
75%
Time On Task
Time On Task
10 Seconds
10 Seconds
Net Promoter Score
Net Promoter Score
70
70
General Feedback
General Feedback
"I noticed the live gold price before everything"
"I noticed the live gold price before everything"
"I am confused by lifetime investment"
"I am confused by lifetime investment"
Iteration C
Iteration C
Task Completion Rate
Task Completion Rate
90%
90%
Time On Task
Time On Task
6 Seconds
6 Seconds
Net Promoter Score
85
85
General Feedback
General Feedback
"This made me want to explore investments"
"This made me want to explore investments"
Result: Overall, the user testing data clearly shows that Option C is the best option for the investment overview cards. It is the most user-friendly, efficient, and visually appealing option. Users were able to find the information they needed quickly and easily, and they were very satisfied with the overall experience.
Result: Overall, the user testing data clearly shows that Option C is the best option for the investment overview cards. It is the most user-friendly, efficient, and visually appealing option. Users were able to find the information they needed quickly and easily, and they were very satisfied with the overall experience.
Evolution Of the Track/Dashboard Page
Evolution Of the Track/Dashboard Page
Facing the first Challenge at Spare8
Facing the first Challenge at Spare8
Upon initial release, the dashboard's first iteration sparked several user grievances about the concealed location of the present worth of gold in rupees. Though it was a conscious decision made according to the founders to obscure the existing gold value, considering gold’s steady growth tendency could potentially deter further investments. It was against the Spare8 design principles as well We endeavored to improve other elements like investment tracking and a more detailed breakdown of their portfolios. Nonetheless, the uncertainty over the actual gold value contributed to several user drop-offs!
Upon initial release, the dashboard's first iteration sparked several user grievances about the concealed location of the present worth of gold in rupees. Though it was a conscious decision made according to the founders to obscure the existing gold value, considering gold’s steady growth tendency could potentially deter further investments. It was against the Spare8 design principles as well We endeavored to improve other elements like investment tracking and a more detailed breakdown of their portfolios. Nonetheless, the uncertainty over the actual gold value contributed to several user drop-offs!
Hence, Users Got what they wanted!
Hence, Users Got what they wanted!
Cracking the Home Page
Cracking the Home Page
Here are some specific improvements that were made in the final iteration:
Here are some specific improvements that were made in the final iteration:
Simplified layout
Simplified layout
The layout of the home page has been simplified in the final iteration. This makes it easier for users to scan the page and find the information they are looking for.
Use of visuals
Effective Hierarchy
Use of white space
Personalized experience
Clear calls to action
Clear calls to action
The final iteration uses clear and concise calls to action, such as "Start Investing!" and "Invest More." This makes it easy for users to take the desired action.
Thus Presenting what was shipped 🚀
Thus Presenting what was shipped 🚀
Welcome to the all new
Welcome to the all new
Spare8
Spare8
Spare8
Your new favorite investment app
Your new favorite investment app
Your new favorite investment app
Onboarding 🤝 Walkthrough
Onboarding 🤝 Walkthrough
Onboarding 🤝 Walkthrough
We adopted a one-screen onboarding strategy, facilitating quicker browsing and effortless registration for the users
We adopted a one-screen onboarding strategy, facilitating quicker browsing and effortless registration for the users
Home Page
Home Page
Home Page
All entry points and more
All entry points and more
Video Prototype
Video Prototype
Main User Flows
Main User Flows
Main User Flows
Investment Flow
Investment Flow
Investment Flow
Daily Savings Flow
Daily Savings Flow
Daily Savings Flow
See your growth and invest!
See your growth and invest!
Note : The nav bar is not same as the designs because it could not be implemented and will be later worked on.
Note : The nav bar is not same as the designs because it could not be implemented and will be later worked on.
Live Android App Recording
Live Android App Recording
Withdrawal Flow
Withdrawal Flow
Withdrawal Flow
Other Primary Features
Other Primary Features
Other Primary Features
Track Page
Track Page
Track Page
Keep a track of all your investments and future profits!
Keep a track of all your investments and future profits!
Video Prototype
Video Prototype
Rewards
Rewards
Rewards
Our reward structure's main focus was on the gold vault, users could redeem the free gold as soom as it reached 100
Our reward structure's main focus was on the gold vault, users could redeem the free gold as soom as it reached 100
Referral Flow
Referral Flow
Slot Machine
Slot Machine
Free Gold Vault
Free Gold Vault
Profile and Settings
Profile and Settings
Profile and Settings
Keep a track of all your investments and future profits!
Keep a track of all your investments and future profits!
Note : The nav bar is not same as the designs because it could not be implemented and will be later worked on.
Note : The nav bar is not same as the designs because it could not be implemented and will be later worked on.
Live Android App Recording
Live Android App Recording
Now some fun and additional features
Now some fun and additional features
Now some fun and additional features
Gold Leasing
Gold Leasing
Gold Leasing
Earn 5% extra on your gold investments!
Earn 5% extra on your gold investments!
Gold Delivery
Gold Delivery
Gold Delivery
Let Your Investments Shine in Your Hands.
Let Your Investments Shine in Your Hands.
Website Designs
Website Designs
Website Designs
Web Landing Page
Web Landing Page
Web Application
Web Application
Impact
Impact
Impact
Mixpanel Data
Mixpanel Data
Mixpanel is our event analytics that tracks user interactions with spare8
Mixpanel is our event analytics that tracks user interactions with spare8
78% of total 2L were active users
Playstore Reviews Post Launch
Playstore Reviews Post Launch
Spare8's impact echoes through the Play Store reviews, where users share their triumphs, positive experiences, and the newfound joy of financial empowerment!
Spare8's impact echoes through the Play Store reviews, where users share their triumphs, positive experiences, and the newfound joy of financial empowerment!
Notable Takeaways
Notable Takeaways
Empathy drives innovation
Empathy drives innovation
Agility is key
Agility is key
Solo doesn't mean alone
Solo doesn't mean alone
Every tap tells a story
Every tap tells a story
Conclusion
Conclusion
The Spare8 mobile app redesign successfully addressed the usability issues, resulting in a more intuitive and user-friendly experience. From ideation to launch, crafting a seamless micro-investment experience reinforced the significance of user empathy, simplicity, and iterative design. Steering through challenges solo, I learned that user-centricity is not just a principle but a UX superpower.
The Spare8 mobile app redesign successfully addressed the usability issues, resulting in a more intuitive and user-friendly experience. From ideation to launch, crafting a seamless micro-investment experience reinforced the significance of user empathy, simplicity, and iterative design. Steering through challenges solo, I learned that user-centricity is not just a principle but a UX superpower.
Check Out My Other Work
Check Out My Other Work
Check Out My Other Work
TRELL
2021
Live Commerce: Shop live with your loved creators
Crafting a solution where viewers can shop & interact live while watching their favorite creators stream and review the products they liked.
GOOD GLAMM GROUP
2022
Navigating Creators: One Campaign at a time
Dive into this case study to witness how this innovative web platform revitalized user engagement and set a new standard for tailored campaign planning in the dynamic $21.1 billion influencer marketing industry.
