PROJECT OVERVIEW
The product:
I independently designed a mobile app for BeerGarden, taking it from the initial concept to a functional prototype for on-site food and drink ordering. Using a structured UX process — user interviews, paper and digital wireframes, low- and high-fidelity prototypes, and multiple usability tests — I identified key user needs and optimized the ordering flow. Accessibility was a priority from the start, ensuring the experience is intuitive and inclusive for a wide range of users.
Project duration:
January-April 2022
My role:
UX designer / UX researcher
The problem:
BeerGarden visitors often wait too long in line, leading to a frustrating experience.
The goal:
Create a simple, user-friendly mobile app that reduces wait times, improves customer satisfaction, and increases sales.
Responsibilities:
Independently conducting interviews, creating wireframes and prototypes, running usability studies, iterating on designs, and integrating accessibility principles throughout the process.
USER RESEARCH
Summary: I conducted user interviews with BeerGarden customers and created empathy maps to understand their needs and behaviors. The primary user group consisted of adults aged 21–60 who order takeout at least once a week. My main objective was to evaluate whether users could successfully complete key tasks in the app prototype and to assess the overall ease of use of the mobile experience.
Problem Statement:
Stephania is a busy student who needs a fast and efficient ordering experience so she can enjoy her weekends with her boyfriend and avoid long waiting lines.
Problem Statement:
Kyle prefers a simple, straightforward ordering experience without unnecessary details cluttering the screen.
User Journey Map:
Mapping Stephania’s user journey highlighted the value of providing users with a BeerGarden menu app, showing how much it could improve their overall experience.
STARTING THE DESIGN
Usability study: findings
There are two rounds of usability studies. The first study helped me move from wireframes to mockups. The second study used a high-fidelity prototype and helped me improve the mockups.
Users want to order beer/food quickly - Check out must be faster
Users want customization options - More info button must be added
Users want a tracking option - Improve “+ “ (add) button
REFINING THE DESIGN
Mockups
HI-FI Prototype
The high-fidelity prototype maintained the same user flow as the low-fidelity prototype, incorporating the design changes made after conducting the usability study.
Accessibility Considerations
1. Voice search option allows people to find information just by using their voice
2. Used icons to help make navigation easier
3. Used detailed imagery help all users better understand the designs.er
GOING FORWARD
Takeaways
Impact
The BeerGarden app provides users with a fast, efficient ordering experience that helps them avoid long lines. This improved convenience has led to higher customer satisfaction and increased sales, making the app a strong competitive advantage.
What I learned
Throughout the design of the BeerGarden app, I gained valuable experience in user research, mobile app design, and usability testing. The project strengthened my process, introduced new techniques, and expanded my practical UX skill set.