A UX/UI Journey with Nextdoor's FoodShare
Introduction
In the summer of 2023, I embarked on a four-week UX/UI project that aimed to tackle a pressing issue: food insecurity. Collaborating with Nextdoor, our goal was to design a "FoodShare" section—a community-driven platform to connect those who have excess food with neighbors in need. This case study outlines the professional journey of creating a solution that is not only functional but also empathetic and empowering.
Week 1: Laying the Groundwork
The first week was dedicated to deep user research. I interviewed various community members to understand the needs and pain points of both food donors and recipients. It quickly became clear that privacy, ease of use, and trust were paramount. Armed with these insights, I began sketching initial wireframes in Figma, focusing on creating an intuitive and welcoming layout.
Week 2: Building the Foundation
With a solid understanding of user needs, the second week was all about wireframing. I mapped out the user flow, ensuring that each step—from listing surplus food to requesting items—was straightforward and seamless. The design included key features like food listings, search filters, and a secure messaging system.
Week 3: Bringing the Vision to Life
Moving from wireframes to high-fidelity prototypes, the third week was where the FoodShare section truly began to take shape. I incorporated visual elements that resonated with Nextdoor’s brand while adding a fresh, community-centric touch. The prototypes showcased features like food listing options, simple search functionality, and a private messaging system for coordinating pick-ups and deliveries.
Week 4: Refining Through Feedback
The final week was dedicated to usability testing. I conducted multiple sessions with community members, gathering invaluable feedback to refine the design. Iterative improvements were made to ensure accessibility and ease of use for all age groups and tech-savviness levels. The result was a polished, user-friendly platform that could be effortlessly navigated by anyone.
Key Features
Food Listings: User-friendly interface for listing surplus food items with photos and descriptions.
Search & Filters: Efficient search functionality with filters for food type, availability, and proximity.
Secure Messaging: Private messaging system to coordinate food exchanges safely and confidentially.
Community Insights: Dashboard displaying community food-sharing statistics to encourage participation and transparency.
Impact
The FoodShare concept received enthusiastic feedback for its clean design and potential to make a significant impact on food waste and insecurity. By connecting neighbors and fostering a sense of community, the platform demonstrates how thoughtful UX/UI design could drive positive social change.
Conclusion
This four-week journey was more than just a design project; it was about understanding and addressing a real community need. The FoodShare section not only offers a practical solution to food insecurity but also strengthens community bonds. This project reinforces the idea that great design is empathetic, user-centered, and capable of making a meaningful difference in people's lives.
