Simplistic and Informed PC Building
Creating a streamlined approach to selecting parts for one’s next personal computer without hassle or complexity.
The Challenge:
Build an ease-of-use application for custom computer part selection
The Team:
This is a solo passion projected aimed at honing UX skills in design and research.
The Duration:
This project was worked on over a six week period.
Learn From What Exists
Multiple website already implement personal computer building features, though they can be overly complicated and confusing. Some features are more useful than others.
Some Notable Features:
Guided and Unguided Builds - Giving Beginners a anchor point
Wattage Calculation - Preselected power supplies based on system power draw
Compatibility Filtration - Ensuring parts will work together seamlessly
What do builders find vital when selecting their parts?
The notable points from interviewing builders were that there was a consistent need to exit the building website to do 3rd party research for even the most basic inquiries about parts. Having generalized information about parts would be useful.
Who will use this app?
Users would generally be new to personal computer building
They would appreciate guided part selection
Minimal outside research would have to be done
Appreciates fast selection of parts and seamless compatibility
Would like to have easy access to vital information on the app.
Building for the Builder
Lets implement the features we’ve learned Tom would appreciate in his building process.
Unguided or Guided Builds
Built-in Wattage Calculator
Compatibility of Parts
(Motherboard with CPU)
Integration of general component information to guide understanding and selection of components. This is available throughout the build process.
Lets put it to the test
Through usability testing, paint points such as the immediate need for filtration as well as the lack of clarification on build progression were expressed and promptly modified.
Original design without progression check for selected components.
Final design signifying selected components with build progress.
Results and Reflection
This passion project proved to be intriguing as it brought in subjects, specifically computer building, that I am passionate about. Ultimately I found that there were times that I could be biased in research so I did my best to look at it from an outside perspective. I was able to accomplish this through user interviews as well as research on existing websites that provide a similar service of component selection. This project offered a great opportunity to further develop my knowledge and expertise in Figma. Ultimately, I enjoyed continuing to hone my user experience design and research skills with a subject I am already passionate about.
