Newlab Case Study
UX/UI Research & Design
The user interface of the Newlab website was selected for an educational investigation into user research, heuristic evaluation, and design development.
This case study includes a comprehensive view and critical evaluation of the organization’s website, beginning with a brief comparative analysis of competitor sites, which helped reveal language, mapping, and accessibility differences between systems—unveiling possible usability issues within Newlab’s website.
A series of scenarios and tasks for heuristic evaluation, based on Jakob Nielsen’s ten usability heuristics, were developed. Previous user research guided the evaluation structure to adopt a user-centric approach. Data from three UX/UI student evaluators (Emma Szabo and Ashlee Fong, led by Lead Evaluator Alé Rogers) yielded two recommendations from the Lead Evaluator:
Recommendation #1: Reframe language in conjunction with information mappings in order to heighten discoverability amongst affordances and provide a clearer mental model.
For optimized usability, create a “Join us” section and subsequent options to present all opportunities for joining Newlab. This heightens discoverability and allows for a better understanding of the different ways to join Newlab (see Figure 5).
Recommendation #2: Reduce cognitive load by restructuring information architecture and removing unnecessary visual treatment.
Excessive spacing on Newlab’s site is visual clutter that does not serve a functional purpose. While space is a suitable framing device, too much can overwhelm cognitive processes. Newlab should minimize spatial structures, reestablish visual hierarchy, and use space effectively.
*Note: This project uses existing designs for educational purposes only. All original content remains the property of Newlab.