Spoak Decor
A design tool for non-designers
The goal
How might we design a software where your main feeling while using it is joy? This requires a commitment to eliminating friction, and replacing it with continuous confidence boosting moments.
The process
Ubiquitously understood software UX can be tricky to get just right. The most complex part of Spoak? The tool (Viz) must appeal to those who have never opened a design tool, as well as design professionals skilled programs like Adobe or CAD.
My greatest achievement was the ability to define a new feature set and independently own the re-creation of Spoak’s main tooling suite, including introducing a design system of 118 variants.
To achieve this, I formed a beta-group from the community of users. I held interviews, vetted my ideas with quick polls, then usability tested interaction paradigms to ensure usability across all types of users with varied design tool experience.
The team
UX, UI, Creative direction: Kerry Drapcho
Design system: Kerry Drapcho & Steven Sczepanik
The problem
The largest reason users were cancelled as tool usability, and inability to figure out how to correctly create a room. The way to help these users? Start from square one.
Visualization tool to design rooms. Easily open and view other design files to get a cohesive view of your space.
Browse, search and filter a gallery of verified and UGC products to add items to your canvas
Select and manipulate items on your canvas. Break down complex concepts to simple copy and interactions
Easy to use layers panel, geared towards all types of users
Organize room structure for step-by-step for easy setup and layer selection
Magic features allow users to simplify complex actions in one sweep. Customize room items by adding scenery, changing trim color, and automatically skewing them to fit the active wall.
New paradigm for Floor Plan with dynamic spacing guides depending on interaction. Easily adjust dimension unit at the item level to accommodate for differing types of measurements
The problem
Members felt the presence of Spoak was too strong in the tooling suite, and as if their designs took a backseat.
Some members also felt the brand was juvenile, and made them question the credibility of the software.
Create a new project editor hub to preview all your designs, products, sections and budget in one place.
Homepage promoting clear navigation of a user's designs, and continually use of the visualization tool.
Sampling of components from design system "Stella"
The impact