CS3216 Case Study I on UI/UX of "Get Help!"

Looking at Get Help! Screen shots, I have these to comment.
1. Useability vs Aesthetics

Asthetics factors: To match the theme of “help wanted!”, consider using logo and aesthetics that shows or convey the  Geneva Red Cross or equivalent. First impression counts, especially elements of urgency to complete the feel (timer!) 

Scream slogan like “Help me!!! By nnn date, time or else I die!” Be cheekiness does help get attention and users!

Useability:  Let elements of creative difference from the average Joe’s help wanted site. Novel functionality such as activating a time countdown and while value reward  diminishes is one example (inversely proportional) to the help wanted.

2. Number of options/ freedom given to user when posting a need.

It depends on product positioning of website Get Help! Now it is “free for all”, no catogerisation, that is too broad. If site is designed for IT project related urgency  or emergency, then option is really having tools to assist help needed user to filter out unnecessary info. Value add to users, helping them to keep it short and sweet.

3. Cycle of interaction & incentives ( Are the elements of the app engaging?)

Cycle of interaction is probably already minimalist, and thought through. With regards to incentives, what is important is before incentive. Could site have been more engaging if app owners /moderators are seen to be expert in one domain, when setting out this Get Help – Credibility of site is important to attract users and helpers, the draw of networking of like minded ones. Of course incentives are nice, but many who seek to help gained in intangible terms, that is an important lure – seen as experts or become better (knowledge, pedadogy) by helping others.

During the workshop, it was interesting to learn from Su Yuen that Kisses reward makes helpers happier than points!  Talking about emotional draw, what an insight!

 4. Other problems the team might have faced.

Likely problem: Gaining traction. Helping everyone or every situation is kind of ambiguous. It's like two ways of reading this word NOWHERE.

Consider these.

- Clear product differentiation, positioning.
- Tools and aesthetics that amplify Help Needed URGENTLY!
- Be in the domain of expert of Help so that articles can be written by site owners while helping others and roping other into helper.
- Product differentiation options: Tech Startup,
- Incorporate a web personality: example, Light and hearty and/or cheecky? "Help for Programming Guru and Goondoo!" Slogan: Hey, the world won't collapsed even if no hero comes to your rescue.

I am running out of ideas and I have still another case study to write - writer's BLOCK! OH...... HELP!!!!!

Psst, anybody reading, anyone out there?! Can help finish writing my other Case Study II (not difficult one......good rewards assured. don't let prof knows; psst, Su Yuen, can re-activate your site, may be able to get some help?  pleezzzzeeee.... : (