Credit Ease
Project Overview
CreditEase is an airtime buying app that aims to provide a user-friendly platform that enables users to purchase airtime/credit for their mobile network accounts. Additionally, allows users to buy and sell airtime/credit with each other, providing a cost-effective and convenient solution.
Problem
Users often face challenges when purchasing airtime/credit, such as buying the wrong amount or encountering errors in the process. Moreover, finding potential buyers or sellers for excess airtime/credit is cumbersome and time-consuming which lesds wasted funds for users
Big Question?
How can we facilitate the connection between users holding excess mobile credit and those seeking to purchase airtime for their respective mobile networks in an efficient and user-friendly manner?
Solution
CreditEase offers an intuitive solution to address these challenges. By providing accurate airtime/credit purchases and a P2P marketplace, users can connect directly with other individuals interested in buying or selling airtime/credit. The app's secure wallet system ensures convenient and secure fund storage and facilitates seamless transactions.
Roles
Product designer
UX researcher
Prototyping
Visual Design
Tools
Figma
Google Doc
Google form
Duration
2 Months
Design Process
Desk research
During my desk research, I explored the methods of transferring airtime to other customers on different mobile networks. I discovered that this process is typically facilitated through the use of USSD (Unstructured Supplementary Service Data) codes, which are unique to each network.
Additionally, I conducted research on peer-to-peer (P2P) transactions by examining platforms like Binance. This research aimed to provide me with insights into the user flow and mechanics of P2P transactions within the cryptocurrency space.
User research
In designing a P2P Credit Marketplace app, a comprehensive user research approach was employed using qualitative and quantitative research methods to gain deep insights into user behaviours, preferences, needs and pain points. This research formed the bedrock of the app's user-centric design.
Target audience
Based on the nature of the project, the target audience for CreditEase can include the following:
Demographic: The target audience may consist of mobile phone users who need to purchase airtime/credit for their mobile network accounts and those interested in selling their excess airtime/credit.
Age Group: The target audience can span across various age groups, including:
Young Adults: Age range of 18 to 34 years, who are active smartphone users and frequently purchase airtime/credit.
Adults: Age range of 35 to 54 years, who may use mobile phones for personal and professional purposes and require airtime/credit.
Older Adults: Age range of 55 years and above, who use mobile phones for communication and may require assistance in purchasing airtime/credit.
Location: The target audience can be geographically diverse, but the app may primarily target users in regions or countries where purchasing airtime/credit is common.
Mobile Network Users: The target audience includes individuals who are subscribers of mobile network operators, utilizing services like prepaid or postpaid plans.
User Interview
In-depth User interview was conducted with potential users of different gender and age groups, to understand their airtime/credit purchasing habits, pain points, and expectations. Some of the questions asked are listed below
Key Questions
How often do you purchase airtime
What method do you use to purchase your phone credit
Can you describe your experience with purchasing airtime/credit for your mobile network?
How would you feel about a platform that allows you to directly buy or sell airtime/credit with other users?
Would you be interested in selling your excess airtime/credit to other users? Why or why not?
What concerns do you have when it comes to buying or selling airtime/credit with other individuals?
How important is it for you to have a secure and trustworthy platform for these transactions?
What features would you consider essential in an app for buying and selling airtime/credit?
How comfortable are you with using a digital wallet within the app to facilitate transactions?
Would you be interested in a rating or feedback system for users who buy or sell airtime/credit?
What would be the main benefits for you if you could seamlessly buy or sell airtime/credit using an app
What expectations do you have for an app that facilitates P2P airtime/credit transactions?
Key Findings
Most users use their bank app to purchase their airtime
Network issues and input mistakes were common pain points mentioned by users when buying airtime.
Users emphasized the importance of a secure and trustworthy platform for airtime/credit transactions.
Users generally had positive attitudes toward a platform that enables P2P buying and selling of airtime/credit. They appreciated the idea of budget control and selling excess credit.
Most users want to be able be sell their excess credit
Users expressed a desire for a dedicated app solely for buying airtime, which would help them budget their funds more effectively.
Users were interested in a rating/feedback system to build trust within the platform. They also wanted a chat platform for communication during P2P transactions.
Users expected benefits such as budgeting assistance, earning money from excess credit, and improved fund management. Expectations included safety, error reduction, easy communication, and verification mechanisms.
Empathy map
Empathy map was used to gain better understanding of the thoughts, feelings, and behaviours of my target audience. The data within the empathy map is based on insights gathered from user conversations.
User Persona
Next I used the qualitative data I gathered during the research process to create a persona Rachel this was used to understand the target audience better which allowed me design based on the gaols and pain points of the user
User journey map
This user journey map was used to outline the stages of interaction and the user's actions, thoughts, and emotions during each stage. It provided a visual representation of the user's experience from initial discovery to engaging in P2P transactions within the CreditEase app.
Userflow
The main user flow for the CreditEase app encompasses the various actions a user can take within the app. Here's a comprehensive user flow:
Ideation
The ideation phase for CreditEase was a crucial stage in the design process. This phase focused on generating innovative ideas and solutions to address the identified problem. Through brainstorming and idea generation, I aimed to define the app's features, functionalities, and user experience. Here are the key activities, outcomes, and next steps of the ideation phase.
Problem Definition
During the ideation phase, I revisited the problem statement: "Users often encounter issues such as buying the wrong amount of credit, which is not reversible." I clarified the problem's scope and impact on users.
User Research Analysis and Brainstorming
I analyzed the findings from user research, including interviews and surveys, to gain insights into user pain points, needs, and expectations related to P2P transaction, airtime purchase and credit management and brainstormed different idea that could solve them.
Sketch and Wireframes
I engaged in sketching and wireframing activities as part of my design process. These sketches and wireframes were developed based on the ideas I brainstormed. This preparatory work played a crucial role in establishing the foundation for efficient design systems, ultimately enhancing the speed and effectiveness of my design sprint.
Design and solution
The design stage in the development of the CreditEase app involves creating a coherent design system and defining the layouts for various app screens. Here's an overview of the design stage, with a focus on design systems and layouts:
Typography and Colors
Grid layout and spacing
Iconography
Reusable Components
Airtime Purchase Module
The airtime purchase module in the CreditEase app streamlines the process of buying mobile credit for users' chosen network providers. Users start by selecting their mobile network from a list, followed by specifying the desired airtime amount. A confirmation step ensures accuracy before proceeding, and the app securely processes the payment, offering various payment options. Immediate transaction feedback, such as success or failure, is provided, along with a digital receipt for reference. This module simplifies airtime purchases, reduces errors, and enhances the overall user experience while ensuring security and convenience.
P2P Sell module
In CreditEase, Seller browse listings based on the desired amount of credit. The listing displays the credit amount, network, and transaction terms set by the app for adherence. Users then enter transaction details, including the required credit amount, the necessary USSD code, phone number, and network. Guidance is provided throughout the process. After the seller sends the credit, they notify the buyer. Upon receiving the specified amount, the seller confirms payment, and a downloadable PDF receipt is generated. Users can rate transactions for security. A chat system is also available which facilitates communication between buyers and sellers.
P2P Buy module
In CreditEase, buyers can browse listings from interested sellers based on their desired transaction amount. The listing displays the seller's requested amount, payment method (either bank transfer or CreditEase wallet), the network, and transaction terms for adherence. Buyers then input transaction details, including the needed amount, bank name, bank account number, and account name. Guidance aids the buyer through the process. After the buyer sends the money, they notify the seller. Upon receiving the specified amount, the buyer confirms payment, and a downloadable PDF receipt is generated. Users can rate transactions to enhance security. Additionally, a chat system fosters communication between buyers and sellers, simplifying interactions.
Listing Process for Buyers and Sellers
The listing process in CreditEase simplifies P2P transactions for both buyers and sellers. Sellers start by selecting their network, specifying the amount of credit to sell, and choosing their preferred payment method (wallet or bank transfer). Additionally, buyers can also list their desired credit amount and network. This process ensures transparency and trust, making it easy for users to connect and engage in efficient P2P transactions within the CreditEase community.
User verification
For more security and trust, users are asked to upload a photo of a government-issued ID and to take a selfie for facial recognition. This multi-layered verification process enhances security and trust within the app, ensuring that users are legitimate and providing a safe environment for P2P transactions and financial activities.
Analytics
The CreditEase app offers a valuable feature that assists users in effectively managing their finances and mobile data usage. This feature allows users to effortlessly track the amount of airtime they purchase from their wallet on a monthly basis. Additionally, it provides tools to analyze their data usage patterns. This functionality empowers users to make informed decisions regarding their airtime purchases and mobile data consumption, ultimately helping them optimize their spending and data usage habits.
Dark mode
CreditEase stays aligned with modern UI design trends by offering a dark mode feature. Implementing this feature was made smooth and efficient through the use of Figma's new variable feature. This not only enhances the app's visual appeal but also provides users with the flexibility to choose their preferred mode, whether it's the standard light mode or the sleek and easy-on-the-eyes dark mode, ensuring a tailored and visually comfortable experience for all users.
