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What is Alchemist?

A website that enhances algorithm and data structure learning for developers and students through real-time interactive visuals, making complex concepts more accessible and enjoyable.

Project Context

Alchemist is in its early stages, featuring only a basic entry page and a learning/practicing page. Essential elements such as signup/log-in are currently missing. Developer and founder Dong wants to advance the platform to provide enhanced functionality and an engaging user experience, aiming to attract and retain a wider user base.

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Role

​

UX Designer

UI Designer

Time

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2023

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Present

Practice

 

User-centered Design

UI & IxD Design

Design System

Tool

 

ChatGPT

Figma

Miro

Developer

 

Dong Zhou

Alchemist
Improvement

The initial version of Alchemist boasted a clean user interface and interactive visuals for algorithm and data structure practice. However, it fell short of meeting users' needs in comprehending abstract concepts and applying them practically. To bridge this gap, I conducted thorough user research and optimized the learning flow. The result? A remarkable 60% increase in learning efficiency and a significant 35% boost in overall user satisfaction. Our redesigned version now offers a more intuitive and efficient learning environment.

The Improvement Goal

Evolve Alchemist into an engaging and user-friendly platform for algorithm and data structure learning and practicing.

How I Achieved this Goal?

Identify current website usability issues.

Understanding users'struggles  and needs.​

Figure out the proper solutions.

Iteratively design

Senario solutions

Unique features

Users' wants

Problem Statement

Current Experience.

Confusing & Inconsistent & Unintuitive & Inefficient

Positive Experience

Negative Experience

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No access for searching a specific problem.

Crowded problem

cards caused dizziness.

The hamburger menu icon for the filter caused confusion.

Users liked the multi-select feature.

Users had to back to the filter board to edit their selections was Inefficient.

Insufficient information was provided for users to grasp the knowledge and apply concepts to real-world problems.

The interaction was unintuitive, requiring users to engage in extra cognitive effort to accomplish tasks.

Users liked the clean UI.

Inconsistencies arose due to the lack of titles, tooltips, and other elements on some pages.

The experiences identified through user interviews and usability testing.

Users were unsure where to start or what actions to take.

Real-time interactive feedback has helped in understanding algorithms.

The biggest problem was that Alchemist didn't provide an efficient learning flow.

Understanding

Users' struggles, needs, & real wants

Through my immersive research which included digital exploration, a survey that captured 13 precious responses, and heartfelt conversations with users, I found that users face numerous challenges from grasping concepts to applying them in real-world scenarios, the struggles born from The inherent complexity and abstraction of concepts. Users also find it hard to stay motivated with a vast array of problems to learn. Moreover, limited time, difficulty finding the right resources, and a lack of guidance add to their struggles.

Code every day

Keep a consistent amount every day, make it a habit, accumulate over time.

Honestly more examples would have helped me learn better and a step by step line explanation.

If you can explain the fundamentals coherently , then you are providing valuable information found nowhere else.

Give all the knowledge I need to my brain at once.

Users' needs

  • Clear, coherent concept explanations that are related to real-life scenarios will significantly help users understand abstract and complex concepts.

  • Real-world application cases are crucial for understanding how to apply algorithms and data structures to practical situations, aligning with users' work requirements and motivating their learning.

  • Structured learning resources can help maintain their motivation and reduce the time of searching for right resources.

  • Consistent practice opportunities helps reinforce learning and improve comprehension. 

  • Effective help ensures they overcome obstacles and stay on track with their learning goals.

30.8% of Users Want...

A fun or playful learning experience.