Challenge
Users lacked sustained engagement in the reading experience due to the absence of progress visibility, reward systems, and habit-forming mechanisms. This reduced reading frequency, retention, and long-term behavioral engagement.
Project Context
MA Final Project
Role
Product Designer
Service
UX Design · Interaction Design · Gamification Design · Research
Year
2022
Collaboration
Collaborated with users during testing and incorporated feedback into iterative design improvements.
ABOUT THE PROJECT​​​​​​​
Resolution
I designed a gamified reading experience leveraging behavioral design principles to increase engagement and support habit formation.
Through user research, literature review, and journey mapping, I identified opportunities to introduce motivation loops.
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I developed a system combining: progress visibility (reading progress bar), habit loops (streaks), reward systems (badges & achievements) and goal-setting mechanics (challenges)​ The solution was designed as a minimal interaction layer, ensuring no disruption to the core reading experience.
Choose a minimal gamification approach to enhance engagement without compromising the core reading experience.
Created a foundation for A/B testing and continuous optimisation of engagement strategies.
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Increased daily reading frequency
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Improved user retention
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Higher perceived accomplishment and motivation (qualitative feedback)
Impact​​​​​​​
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Research: literature review, user research, journey mapping
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Insights: lack of feedback loops and motivation triggers
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Exploration: gamification mechanics (streaks, rewards, challenges)
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Validation: prototype testing focused on engagement and usability
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Iteration: refinement based on behavioral feedback
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Delivery: scalable system ready for experimentation and feature expansion
Method​​
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Led UX and interaction design
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Defined a gamification strategy and engagement model
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Designed and validated prototypes
