Airsoft Arena
This project focuses on working with clients, especially with technical constraints small businesses won’t have a development team to redesign their websites.
The Project
Background
Airsoft Arena is an indoor airsoft field known for its Close-Quarters Battle(CQB). It boasts the Midwest's largest indoor airsoft field and tactical training facility. The website needs a redesign because it looks very outdated.
Project Scope
A responsive website design for desktop that is simple and easy to use and understand.
Duration
2 Weeks (80Hrs)
Tools
Figma
Pen and Paper
Google Doc
The Process
Assumptions
The website needed an updated version because it looks like it was made in 2000. Additionally, there was outdated information that need to be changed.
Current Website
What Is Airsoft
“Airsoft is a team game in which participants eliminate opposing players by tagging them out of play with spherical plastic projectiles shot with mock air weapons called airsoft guns.”
User Research
As a player and user myself, I have been planning to contribute to my local airsoft community by creating a platform that simplifies the process of accessing information and discovering shared resources among local fields. The main objective is to foster growth within the community. I am grateful for the support and information provided by fellow local players and staff, as their input has been invaluable.
Target Audience
Are people who are interested in the sport.
First timers.
People who are ready to play.
Why do people play this game?
To stay fit and exercise
Airsoft is a great new hobby
It’s realistic
The replicas
To help veterans relax
Make friends
See new place
Airsoft is cheaper than paintball
I play airsoft because of video games
Competitive Analysis
Here are four different competitive businesses near the Airsoft Aena. I wanted to see how they display their information, and this is what I have learned.
All 4 websites feel like they were made in 2000.
There is poor UI design principles in all 4 websites, I would say they all need a redesigned platform.
User Interviews
I was able to do an in-person interview with people I know within the community and see their perspectives, on the sport.
Key moments that I have learned throughout my research..
Airsoft is a great way how to tell stories.
This helps me learn how to deal with teamwork with strangers.
A great way of making new friends.
A place where I can find new places to travel too.
Stakeholder Interview
Is there anything you dislike about the website?
It's just very old this is the same website we have used since we opened around 2013.
Is there anything you like to change?
Yes there is a lot I would like to change..
People can’t find the wavier form that is easy.
The time is all wrong.
Things on the rental page we don't do anymore also.
How old is this website?
Around 2013.
Why did you choose to go with this website?
The cousin of the owner of the store was a coder.
Airsoft Arena Assistant Manager
Affinity Map
After all the interviews, I made an affinity map to see what are some common problems and concerns users had with the platform itself. Here are some of the key issues I have found that I thought would bring up a good focus point for the redesign.
Research Findings and Insights
This is what I have found out about doing the surveys, competitive analysis, and online research..
Most first-time players are invited by a friend or they have found the information on the Internet.
People are willing to travel to different fields and try a different experiences.
Most of the fields around the area are outdoors.
People are here to have fun .
Defining The Persona
Persona A
When doing my research, I learned that there were two types of people. Within the interviews, I thought it would be great to showcase both types: those who have been playing for a long time and others who are just starting. This way, you get a sense of what both personalities need within the website.
Persona B
As a beginner player B is much more concerned about how to use the website and may not trust the website.Because they are afraid of being scammed and not getting shipped their items. . because they have much lower confidence in the website than persona A.
Design Exploration
Road Map
After conducting extensive research up to this point, I have come to the conclusion that there are certain aspects of this website that require redesigning. I decided to focus on the main pages, of these experiences as the must-have.
Site Map
Here is my thought process regarding what the website currently has and what needs to be added for the redesign. I chose to focus on building out the game mode experiences because out of all the other competitors, no one had a good explanation as to what types of games users will be playing.
To view this image larger please click here.
Task Flow
Here is the user flow for a user to book an online spot, for the Airsoft Arena.
Branding
During the conversation with the clients, I suggested redesigning their logo as the current one appeared outdated and reminiscent of the 2000s era. However, when I presented them with three different mock-ups of redesigned logos, the client refused the idea. They expressed contentment with the original design. Despite going back and forth on the matter, the client remained firm in their stance, stating that they did not desire a redesigned brand for their website. but wished to keep the old one.
UI Kit
For the UI kit, I have chosen the color base of the original logo design to make things more consistent. This color also complements the CQB style of airsoft experiences. Also, I have used a lot of user photography to showcase some perspective-taking of their own experiences.
Low Fidelity
After conducting extensive research, I have formed some initial thoughts on how to address and resolve the initial problems and design issues.. One of the areas that I have focused on was the calendar and booking experiences.
High Fidelity
After incorporating numerous revisions with the invaluable assistance of my mentors and peers, I am delighted to present my final high-fidelity design.
Selected Screen
Testing/Prototyping
Prototype Flow
I had the opportunity to test the prototype at the Airsoft Arena and gather feedback from both staff and players regarding the new booking system.
Prototypes were done in person at the Airsoft Arena field.
The player playing that day.
Age range 18-40.
Asking them how was the overall flow of the new website.
Asking what they thought about the booking system.
Prototype Results
Revisions
Just like in the art world revisions are helpful. When you have a group of peers or a mentor who is able to tell you what doesn't look right. Because of these critiques. I was able to make three versions and I tested each version. In the image, you can see how I made the changes.
Version 1
Version 2
Version 3
Wrap Up
Conclusion
The Airsoft Arena is pleased with the website's new upgrade, but there are still a few more revisions needed.
Based on my observations, people tend to receive quicker responses on social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.
It's important to note that this website provides more comprehensive information that may not be readily available on social media. It serves as a cohesive hub that brings together various platforms they are utilizing.
Finding a compromise with stakeholders is indeed a valuable skill to possess. As a designer, it's essential to understand that creative freedom may not always be guaranteed, and being open to collaboration and finding common ground is crucial.