Info
Role
Product Designer
Timeline
6 weeks
Focus
Digital Health
Star-up
B2C
Minimum Viable Product
Tools
Figma
Team
Product Owner
Project Manager
Context
The Project
Helsa is an innovative online therapy platform designed specifically for the LGBTQ+ community in the UK. The app connects users with specialised LGBTQ+ psychologists who understand this community's unique challenges and experiences.
"How might we address the gap in mental health services for LGBTQ+ individuals by providing tailored support that meets the growing demand beyond what the NHS and LGBTQ+ charities can offer?"
Outcome
Thanks to the high-fidelity prototype, which the program deemed a Minimum Viable Product (MVP), the team secured funding from a venture capital-backed startup accelerator.
Part Two:
Visual Board
Part Three:
Feature #1
Onboarding
The onboarding process was the first feature we drafted. It aims to give users an initial glimpse of the platform's services while allowing them to set up their profiles and personalize their app experience.
Our primary goal was to create a friendly and inviting user flow and language, helping users gradually feel comfortable sharing personal information about their lives. By focusing on a seamless and empathetic onboarding experience, we aimed to build trust and ensure users felt supported from the very beginning.
Feature #2
Tool Kit
The Tool Kits feature, with its diverse range of programs on various topics, serves as a comprehensive guide for users. It leads them through self-reflection journeys, helping to boost positive feelings and reduce negative ones. Integrating with the dashboard forms a robust support system, fostering continuous engagement and personalised growth.
Feature #3
Chatbot and Matching
The final prototype significantly evolved based on testing insights. Users are now onboarded by a chatbot that asks questions to configure their profiles, assess their emotional state, and recommend psychologists specialising in the necessary treatments.
This conversational approach makes onboarding engaging and ensures accurate therapist matches, enhancing the overall user experience and outcomes. Integrating the chatbot and matching feature creates a seamless, supportive entry point, fostering a sense of connection and care.
Key Learnings
01
Participatory Design
A key lesson was the importance of involving users and stakeholders early and often in the design process. As we shifted to two-week sprints, rapid iteration was crucial. We achieved more user-centric and practical solutions by incorporating their needs and insights. This collaborative approach also fostered a sense of ownership and alignment among all participants.
02
User Mental Models
I learned the importance of understanding and aligning with user mental models. By deeply analysing other applications and how users think and interact, we were able to design more intuitive and practical solutions. This approach ensured the product met user expectations, was technically feasible and enhanced the overall user experience.
03
Complex Workflows
When tackling complex features, it's crucial to prioritise the user journey and iterative user testing. We identified potential pain points by mapping out the different paths users might take to achieve their goals. Also, through testing, we refined the design, making the feature a more intuitive and efficient experience.
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Recommendations
“Dedicated and detail-oriented designer with a strong growth mindset, always striving to improve and enhance user experiences”
Ivana D.
Senior Product Designer at Deloitte UK
“Highly creative, hard-working designer with strong project management and communication skills. He excels at meeting deadlines, presenting ideas, and solving design challenges”
Katherine M.
Marketing Manager at South Bank Colleges
“Proactive and insightful designer who quickly delivers quality work. At Helsa, his clickable prototype played a key role in securing VC-backed accelerator funding”
Rob C.
Entrepreneur & Fintech Leader
Let's talk
drigofernando@gmail.com