furo.fit
A 'high octaine' fitness comunity app for furo.fit
Furo.fit is a fitness app dedicated to empowering individuals, particularly beginners, to embrace healthier lifestyles. It aims to offer a seamless and accessible platform for integrating exercise routines into daily routines, connecting with a supportive community, and tracking progress. As a freelance designer, I collaborated with Furo.fit to revamp their existing app, focusing on enhancing user experience (UX) and user interface (UI) design, as well as incorporating innovative features.
Background.
While offering valuable features like workout plans and progress tracking, Furo.fit faced challenges in three key areas. Users struggled with confusing navigation, limited user engagement, and a lack of community connection. To address these issues, I conducted a comprehensive investigation. Through in-depth interviews with 20 users, I gained valuable insights into their needs, frustrations, and desired functionalities. Additionally, I analyzed over 100 app store reviews to identify common user complaints and feature requests. Finally, I delved into app usage data, focusing on areas with high drop-off rates and low engagement levels.
Based on my findings, I established a roadmap for improvement, prioritizing:
Improved UI/UX: Streamlining navigation, enhancing visual appeal, and providing a more intuitive user experience.
Increased engagement: Integrating features to motivate users and support them on their fitness journeys.
Community building: Fostering a sense of community and belonging within the app.
Approach.
Employing a user-centered design approach, I implemented a series of steps to improve Furo.fit. First, I conducted card sorting exercises with users to reorganize app content and functionalities, leading to improved navigation and discoverability. Next, I developed low-fidelity wireframes to establish the core user flow and high-fidelity prototypes for comprehensive user testing and feedback iteration. To ensure a modern and user-friendly experience, I developed a visual language for the app interface that aligned with Furo.fit's brand identity and target audience preferences. Finally, I collaborated closely with developers to ensure seamless integration of new features and functionalities for a smooth user experience across all platforms.
To spark creative solutions and explore diverse possibilities, I incorporated the SCAMPER method throughout the design process.
Substitute: Instead of relying solely on generic workout plans, I explored the idea of personalized coaching. This involved substituting the one-size-fits-all approach with a system where users could connect with dedicated coaches who could tailor workout plans and offer guidance specific to their needs and goals.
Combine: Recognizing the potential for increased motivation and engagement, I considered combining the existing workout tracking feature with a virtual experience. This led to the creation of the Virtual Tour feature, where users could virtually "walk" or "run" famous trails around the world. This unique feature not only gamified the workout experience but also allowed users to explore new locations and sceneries while tracking their progress and staying motivated.
Adapt and Modify: The original onboarding process was overwhelming for new users. To address this, I adapted the process to be streamlined. This involved creating a step-by-step guided tour highlighting key features and functionalities, making it easier for users to navigate the app and get started on their fitness journeys. Additionally, I modified the existing community forum by adding functionalities for users to post pictures and engage in more dynamic discussions. This fostered a sense of community and connection, encouraging users to share experiences, ask questions, and support each other.
Based on all the steps i carried out i created a list features that would help Furo.fit achieve its defined goals:
Streak: A gamified reward system incentivizing regular app usage and achieving daily fitness goals, awarding users points for completing workouts and maintaining consistency.
Virtual Tour: A feature offering immersive virtual journeys on famous trails around the world. Users could "walk" or "run" these virtual routes, with the app tracking their progress and displaying their virtual location alongside their real-world workout route.
Coaching: An in-app feature connecting users with dedicated coaches who provided personalized guidance, support, and workout plans tailored to individual needs and goals.
Community Forum: A platform for users to connect, share experiences, ask questions, and motivate each other. Users could post pictures, text updates, and engage in discussions about their fitness journeys.
GPS Tracking: This feature allowed users to track their workout paths, pace, heart rate, and estimated calorie burn (if weight and height were entered). This data provided valuable insights into workout performance and progress.
Streamlined Onboarding: I simplified the onboarding process to avoid overwhelming new users with information overload. This included a step-by-step guided tour highlighting key features and functionalities.
Impact.
By incorporating these features and revamping the overall UX and UI, the project achieved several outcomes. Improved user experience and engagement led to higher satisfaction ratings. Engaging features and a supportive community to encouraged users to stick with the app, ultimately enhancing user retention. Additionally, gamified elements, personalized coaching, and community support boosted user motivation and helped them reach their fitness goals. Finally, fostering a sense of belonging and connection within the app aimed to strengthen community building, leading to increased user engagement and brand loyalty.
Looking Forward:
While the implemented changes aimed to significantly enhance the Furo.fit user experience, there's always room for further improvement. A/B testing different UI elements and features would allow for data-driven optimization to ensure alignment with user preferences and maximize engagement. Implementing advanced analytics would provide deeper insights into user behavior and preferences, enabling further refinement of features and functionalities based on user data. Finally, integrating wearable device compatibility would allow for personalized workout recommendations and comprehensive performance tracking, further enhancing the app's functionality and solidifying Furo.fit's position as a leading resource for individuals on their fitness journeys. By continuously iterating and incorporating user feedback, Furo.fit can continue to evolve and empower individuals to embrace healthier lifestyles.
