Project Overview
The Bullhorn.fm app aimed to revolutionize podcasting by introducing live interaction features and showcasing the feature set capabilities provided by CarrierX, the API platform that runs FreeConferenceCall.com. The goal was to enable listeners to ask questions, vote on polls, chat with fellow listeners, and call in live during episodes, thereby increasing engagement and transforming the podcasting world.
My Role
As the Design Director for FreeConferenceCall.com, I was brought in to assist the Bullhorn.fm product designers due to my successful work on FreeConferenceCall.com. My responsibilities included cleaning up design screens for consistency, creating a design system, managing design tickets, hiring designers, and overseeing project progress. Working with a small team of just one full-time designer, whom I hired, and two part-time designers who were also working on FreeConferenceCall projects, we managed to achieve significant milestones.
Impact and Results
At its final state, the mobile app allowed listeners to enjoy their favorite podcasts normally. Exclusive to Bullhorn.fm, the app featured live episodes managed with Bullhorn's live studio, which included:
Chat with other live listeners
Ask questions to podcast hosts and upvote questions asked by others
Live callers enabled by podcast hosts, similar to a radio station
Video calls, utilizing the CarrierX API feature from FreeConferenceCall.com
4.5 stars on the Android App Store with 30,000 downloads and 4.2 stars on the Apple App Store.
Process and Research
The design process began with requests from the project manager, based on user feedback, business impact, or trending features. We conducted competitive research by exploring similar apps like Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Pandora, and Spotify, mapping out their functionalities, and identifying features we wanted to implement. Initial wireframes were created and shared with the team for internal review. We engaged the development team early to discuss feasibility and necessary adjustments.
We developed prototypes in Figma to demonstrate functionality, conducting internal tests with the dev team and company employees who matched our target market. After validating the screens, they entered the development pipeline. A user researcher joined our team later to conduct user tests and provide feedback on the builds.
Challenges and Problem-Solving
Speed Over Accuracy: Given the pressure to launch within a short deadline, we initially skipped vital steps like user testing to meet deadlines. However, I advocated for the inclusion of a user researcher, who later helped us conduct effective user tests and gather valuable feedback. This post-launch feedback was fantastic, allowing us to revise the app effectively. We significantly improved the app's functionality and user experience, ultimately refining the platform to better meet user needs.
Balancing Multiple Projects: As a design director, I juggled multiple responsibilities. By prioritizing tasks, delegating effectively, and maintaining clear communication with my team, we managed to deliver quality work on time.
Leadership and Direction: Bullhorn.fm initially lacked a clear leadership structure. By adding key team members, such as a dedicated product designer, part-time user researcher and a part-time senior product designer, we provided the necessary guidance and management. This ensured that the project stayed on track and met its objectives.
Feedback
Users who understood the concept loved it, especially the "live call-in" feature, which allowed for dynamic content creation.
Personal Growth and Lessons Learned
Growth: This project helped me learn to balance multiple projects, prioritize my impact, and communicate effectively with different departments. Here are things I took from it:
Prototypes and Feedback: Quick surveys, direct user interactions, and rapid prototypes using platforms like UserTesting or Miro can efficiently gather insights.
Project Purpose: Prioritize understanding the project's purpose and market needs before development.
Clear Goals: Ensure clear goals and genuine problem-solving drive the design process.
Early User Research: Hire a user researcher early to focus on rapid prototyping and user feedback.
Proud Achievements: Despite remote work challenges, my team met deadlines, innovated, and created an app that users loved.
Thank you
This case study highlights my journey, growth, and the valuable lessons learned while working on the Bullhorn.fm app. My experience reflects my passion for problem-solving and dedication to creating impactful design solutions.