AXIS App : Advancing eXchange for Independent Scholars

Project Overview:
In Portland, intellectuals seeking research-driven, community-focused collaboration lack a centralized platform. The AXIS App addresses this gap by empowering independent scholars to connect, exchange resources, and foster intellectual engagement.

Scope & Approach:
The project centered on comprehensive UX research, from identifying user needs to prototyping a cohesive digital solution. Key responsibilities included:

• UX Research: Conducted targeted surveys to assess user needs, compiled and analyzed data in spreadsheets, and synthesized insights into three distinct personas:

  • Alex the Autodidact (primary focus)

  • The Knowledge Seeker (College is Too Expensive)

  • The Alum Seeking Knowledge (Regain Access to Intellectual Community)

• User Journey Mapping: Developed detailed user journey maps to illustrate pain points, motivations, and desired outcomes for each persona.

• Brand Identity Development: Conceptualized the app name and acronym (AXIS – Advancing eXchange for Independent Scholars), and created the brand’s visual identity, including moodboards and a style guide.

• UX/UI Design: Executed information architecture, wireframes, and a comprehensive high-fidelity prototype using Figma, showcasing eight critical app frames and user flows.

Deliverables:

• Interactive prototype video

• Research data and synthesized insights

• Low- and high-fidelity wireframes

• User journey maps for three personas

• Brand identity, including moodboards and a style guide

Impact & Outcomes:

• Demonstrated strategic design-thinking through the full UX/UI design process, from research to prototype.

• Tackled complex user scenarios to deliver a cohesive, user-centered app prototype.

• Elevated storytelling through data-driven personas and interactive design, positioning AXIS as a valuable digital platform for intellectual exchange.