Laura
Peters
SUMMARY
SUMMARY
SUMMARY
As the Lead Designer on this group project, I evaluated Laurier’s Service Laurier webpages (2025) to identify usability, content, and layout issues. My role involved leading research efforts, conducting usability testing, interviews, surveys, card sorts, and tree testing to uncover user pain points. I also organized team meetings, prepared client presentations, and authored key project documents. Using Figma, Optimal Workshop, and persona development, our team compiled a final research report outlining actionable recommendations to improve the site’s overall user experience.
Client
Service Laurier
Wilfrid Laurier University
Tools & Software Used
Figma
Usability Testing
Interviews
Surveys
Tree Testing
Research to Ideation
​We used a variety of research methods, including interviews, surveys, competitive analysis, tree testing, usability testing, and card sorting. Our findings revealed that students often struggled to understand differences between certain labels and page structures. Certain navigation names caused confusion, leading users to get stuck when trying to complete their tasks.
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To transition from research to ideas, we analyzed similarities across all data sources to identify the most significant pain points. We also met with our client to understand their challenges, particularly the high volume of student inquiries during peak periods like September. Their goal was to improve navigation so students could find key information without needing to contact the office.
Recommendations
​Our recommendations included introducing a centralized news board that serves as a student landing page, featuring timely and relevant resources. For example, in September, the board could highlight links for course changes, OSAP applications, tuition payments, and graduation details. This approach streamlines access to information, reduces navigation difficulties, and helps decrease unnecessary inquiries to Service Laurier.
