Curating a New Way of Thinking About a Living Wage

Aug 25, 2024

3 min read

Introduction:

In the current workforce, numerous individuals work diligently but still find it difficult to make ends meet, often trapped in jobs that don't offer a living wage. Acknowledging this issue, a nonprofit based in Florida launched an online platform aimed at directing job seekers toward sustainable careers. The 'Sweet Trades' mission has two main objectives: assisting individuals in finding better-paying job opportunities and linking them with trade school programs that can provide them with in-demand skills.

This case study explores the development of the nonprofit’s new website—built to streamline access to resources, simplify job searches, and provide clear pathways to vocational training—ultimately empowering users to take the next step toward financial independence.

Challenge

Identify problematic areas within the current interface and make necessary adaptations to create a more comprehensive website.

Goal

Outline the initial site structure and identify problematic areas to enhance communication between users and the company.

Why is this important?

Living paycheck to paycheck has become commonplace, with many people trapped in this cycle for years, simply accepting it as the norm. However, living wage jobs are accessible to individuals with almost any educational background. The issue lies in the lack of resources to identify these jobs or confusion about what constitutes a living wage job.

SweetTrades simplifies this process by providing users with the information needed to find such jobs, obtain the necessary education for their desired positions, and secure employment. This helps break free from the cycle of dead-end jobs and fosters a more rewarding lifestyle.

Initial Site Map

The site was set up prior to my involvement. The client recognized that it needed enhancements to provide a comprehensive user experience.

I created a site map to visually represent what users could currently access and to pinpoint possible improvements. Important components were missing, include:

A contact page
A section for viewing trades, which would offer users more information.
Navigation was mainly restricted to the main landing page
A visible footer diminished the site's credibility.

This resulted in the site being viewed as a potential dead-end or scam. To address this initial perception, I recommended

User Journey Map

Modified Site Map

Acknowledging that change is inevitable, I mainly utilized this sitemap as a reference during the wireframe phases.

Figma Digital Site Sketches

Originally, I did it manually, but I found using Figma to be more convenient for gaining an edge in Guerrilla Testing before starting the low-fidelity wireframe.

My goal was to make sure the banner establishes the first impression of the site, while also meeting the need for extra funding. Sweet Trades seeks to promote collaboration between communities and businesses.

I minimized some of the white space and added more trade options to expand the user's understanding of what a trade could involve. Finally, I included a footer to unify the entire landing page.

Low Fidelity Wireframe

Using Figma, I transformed my initial sketches into low-fidelity wireframes.

Afterward, I improved them by adding appropriate stock images and text provided by the marketing team. At this stage, the wireframes were detailed enough for user testing.

Following four tests, I made several changes and moved on to create high-fidelity prototypes.

High Fidelity Wireframe and UI Design

Once the usability issues were addressed, I moved on to designing the final screens in Figma. My goal was to create a visual identity that aligns with the brand's values and message: "A new way of thinking about a living wage." I also examined the competition and explored my reference catalog for inspiration.

I chose a "deep sea dive" theme for the website, designed to explore in depth the research on new income streams.

By using a simple web design template, I developed a distinctive style guide for the website. The company sought to be inclusive and accessible to everyone.

The final design reflects the need to invigorate and include the economic market. For example, the landing page consistently provides a new beginning, with communication and input easily available for newcomers.