UI/UX Recommendations for HushClub

Executive Summary

HushClub aims to create a unique platform for anonymous sharing of mental health experiences through voice notes, addressing the stigma associated with mental health discussions. This recommendation outlines user journeys, wireframes, and design best practices to ensure an intuitive and supportive experience for users. The focus will be on creating a user-friendly app that fosters community support while maintaining privacy and safety.

User Personas & Scenarios

Key User Personas

1. Anxious Emma: A 25-year-old graduate student who values anonymity and seeks a supportive community for sharing her feelings.
2. Supportive Sam: A 30-year-old counselor wanting to connect with individuals needing help while preserving their identities.
3. Curious Connor: A 22-year-old college student exploring his mental health; looking for validation and connection without judgment.
4. Empathetic Ella: A 28-year-old social worker focused on sharing experiences and supporting others in a safe space.

User Scenarios

• Emma uses the app to share her anxiety experiences and receives comforting feedback, helping her feel understood.
• Sam engages by listening to voice notes, providing support through anonymous responses that encourage users.
• Connor uses the platform to manage stress by sharing his feelings and listening to peers, enhancing his sense of community.

Information Architecture

Site Map

• Home
  • Community Feed
  • Record Voice Note
  • User Messages
• Profile
  • User Settings
  • Subscription Options
  • Privacy Settings
• Resources
  • Articles and Guides
  • Community Guidelines
  • Support and FAQs

User Flows

User Flow for Sharing a Voice Note:

1. Launch App: User opens HushClub.
2. Sign In/Registration: User signs in or registers (ensuring anonymity).
3. Navigate to Community Feed: User accesses the community feed displaying existing voice notes.
4. Record New Voice Note: Selects “Record” to share an experience.
5. Review and Share: User listens to the recording, makes changes, and shares it anonymously.
6. Engagement: Receives reactions and supportive feedback on the posted note.

User Flow for Listening and Responding:

1. Launch App: User opens HushClub.
2. Navigate to Community Feed: User views latest voice notes.
3. Select Voice Note: Users click on a note to listen.
4. Active Engagement: Option to react or leave a supportive message.
5. Feedback Mechanism: User provides anonymous feedback to improve community support.

Wireframes

Wireframe 1: Home Screen

• Header: App logo, Profile icon, Notifications icon.
• Main Area: Scrollable community feed with voice note snippets (play button, user identifier).
• Bottom Navigation: Home, Record, Profile, Resources.

Wireframe 2: Record Voice Note Screen

• Header: Title “Share Your Voice”.
• Main Area: Large record button in the center.
• Footer: Option to review recording or discard.

Wireframe 3: Community Feed Screen

• Header: Search bar for users to find specific notes.
• Main Area: List of voice notes with play buttons, anonymous user identifiers, and reaction buttons (thumbs up, heart).
• Floating Action Button: Quick access to record a new voice note.

Design System Recommendations

Color Palette

• Primary Color: Soft Blue (#A1CFE2)
• Secondary Color: Light Green (#D6EAD6)
• Accent Color: Warm Coral (#FF6F61)
• Background Color: Off-white (#F9F9F9)

Typography

• Primary Font: ‘Montserrat’ for headings, providing a modern look.
• Secondary Font: ‘Open Sans’ for body text, ensuring readability.

UI Component Patterns

• Buttons: Rounded edges, soft colors for call-to-action buttons (e.g., Record, Share).
• Input Fields: Soft background with placeholders indicating functionality.
• Icons: Simple and intuitive icons for ease of understanding (play, pause, write).

Mobile Considerations

• Ensure all features are fully responsive, with tap targets designed for ease of use on mobile devices.
• Implement swipe gestures for navigating between audio notes and sections.
• Utilize screen space efficiently for clear presentation of content without cluttering the interface.

Accessibility Guidelines

• Provide alternative text for all images and icons.
• Ensure color contrasts meet WCAG AA standards for visibility.
• Include captions for audio notes when needed for users with hearing impairments.
• Implement voice-over support for main functions to accommodate users with visual impairments.

Implementation Notes for Developers

• Technology Stack:
  • Frontend: React Native
  • Backend: Node.js and Express for robust server communication.
  • Storage: Implement secure voice storage and data anonymization to protect user identities.
• Monitoring & Moderation: Set up tools for automated moderation and reporting of harmful content.

References & Inspiration

• Voice Note Applications: Look into successful platforms like Anchor or SoundCloud for UI inspiration on voice notes.
• Community Forum Designs: Analyze platforms like Reddit and Whisper for community interaction designs.
• Mental Health Focus: Study mental health apps like BetterHelp for content moderation strategies and user engagement.

These recommendations will ensure HushClub’s design aligns with its mission of being a welcoming and safe space for users to share their mental health experiences while utilizing innovative voice-sharing technology. This approach will enhance user engagement, retention, and overall satisfaction.