Currently I have been focusing on creating the structure and an initial flow map for the application, so that I can create the first interactive prototype.
Some rough sketches to help in figuring out the contents for some pages, but these have nothing to do with the actual layout or design yet.
I have identified the key features for the application. In order to address the problem of finding time to draw, the application helps by scheduling the time by reminding the user of the opportunities to draw. As the user opens the application, they specify how much time they have for drawing, after which they can choose between a lighter, a challenging or a practise prompt. The application recommends suitable mediums for each prompt, and the user can tick away the ones they don’t feel like using. The lighter prompts are based on the user’s comfort zone, and the challenging ones are new subjects and techniques. One of the key things is that the app always gives a helpful set of reference material chosen for each prompt allowing the user to spend time actually drawing instead of having to search for specific references.
While drawing, prompts are split to more bite-sized stages so that it’s easier to schedule and endure it if drawing feels difficult. After each one the user has the option to move on to the next stage or to stop if they want. The application also counts down the user allocated drawing time, after which it checks if they wish to extend the session or continue later on.
Throughout the process the application supports the user — it aims to convey a feeling of accomplishment after every stage of the drawing process, so it congratulates the user whenever they have drawn something, no matter how small. It also gives praise on keeping a steady monthly, weekly, or even daily pace.
After each session the application keeps track of the user’s preferences and aims to shift their outlook to more positive by asking the user what they like in their work and what they thought about the media or technique used. This self-appraising data is also used to define the further prompts. It also records the previous drawings into a timeline that is not constantly visible, but gives the user the option to see their previous work and improvement over time.
Based on the discussions I’ve had with my tutors, I believe that it is important to include some kind of sharing option as well. Not necessarily to other social media, but safely contained within the application. This is supported by my research as well – many people said during the interviews that it’s refreshing to see other people’s work-in-progress pieces, or work that they are not happy with.
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