DropYourAI
2023
UX/UI design
responsive web+mobile
branding
product management
art direction
motion design
With the increasing number of AI tools emerging daily, there arose a need to consolidate these tools onto a single platform.
DropYourAI was conceived as a library designed to provide AI tools supported by AI-driven smart search functionality.
MY ROLE
I've been leading product and design management for DropYourAI from the outset. Our journey started with understanding the integration of AI into our system, identifying suitable frameworks, designing user interfaces, enhancing usability, managing databases, and closely monitoring user feedback and support data post-launch to address any issues.
Continuously driven by user needs, we iteratively improved the product by introducing new modules
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Inception and Ideation
We started DropYourAI because we saw the need for one place to find all AI tools. We set goals and made a clear vision for the project: to create an easy-to-use library with all AI tools. We wanted to make it simple for everyone to access AI resources worldwide.
We looked into how we could use AI and what technologies we needed. We talked to users to find out what they needed and what problems they had. We decided on design principles: we wanted things to be simple, easy to use, and work well.
Planning Product & Design
We used feedback from users and support data to make decisions. We kept improving the product by making it easier to use and adding new features. We always worked to meet users' changing needs and keep up with new technology.
Product Management & Iteration
THE CHALLANGE
Since its inception, DropYourAI has navigated the evolving landscape of AI integration, striving to streamline the process of incorporating AI search functionality. Recognizing the challenge of making AI search straightforward, our team has diligently explored various strategies and technologies to ensure user-friendly implementation.
By prioritizing simplicity and accessibility in the design approach, we aim to empower users to leverage AI capabilities effortlessly, enhancing their overall experience on the platform.
Simplifying AI Search Functionality
As DropYourAI aims to curate and list thousands of AI tools, another significant challenge emerges: prioritizing and organizing this vast array of products effectively. To address this challenge, we have implemented robust categorization and filtering mechanisms, allowing users to narrow down their search and find relevant tools efficiently.
Additionally, our iterative development approach enables us to continuously refine the product catalog, prioritizing the most valuable and sought-after tools based on user feedback and market demand.
Through these efforts, we strive to offer users a curated selection of high-quality AI resources, tailored to their specific needs and preferences.
Organizing the AI Universe
To make AI search easier, DropYourAI created a simple search interface. With smart filters, users can find what they need quickly.
For organizing thousands of AI tools, DropYourAI sorted them into categories. Users can easily find the tools they want. We keep improving the catalog based on what users need, so they always get the best tools.
“We are dedicated to making AI tools accessible to everyone.”
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User personas & expectations
Limited time for exploring and evaluating different AI options due to a busy schedule.
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Efficient search functionality.
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Comprehensive categorization of AI tools.
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User-friendly interface.
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Access to cutting-edge AI technologies.
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Regular updates and new additions to the tool library.
Uncertainty about the reliability and quality of AI tools available online.
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Clear documentation and integration guides.
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Reliable and well-tested AI tools.
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Community support and forums for troubleshooting.
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Compatibility with popular programming languages and frameworks.
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Seamless integration process with minimal setup required.
Sarah, the Data Scientist
John, ai enthusiast
THE DISCOVERY
I conducted customer and market research to guide our planning stage. These are the main findings that shaped the initial version of the product.
Customer Insights
Reliable Integration
Efficient Discovery
Users seek reliable AI tools with clear documentation to facilitate seamless integration into their projects.
Users prioritize efficient tool discovery, indicating the need for intuitive search functionality.
User-Friendly Interface
users prioritize user-friendly interfaces that simplify tool discovery and integration processes.
A quick glance at DropYourAI
THE SERVICE
Users can find the AI tools they need with ease by typing their intentions with artificial intelligence into the search bar, simplifying the process of locating specific resources tailored to their requirements.
Seamless AI Tool Discovery
Users can acquire detailed information about the tools they discover, enabling informed decision-making and efficient evaluation.
Comprehensive Tool Insights
Users can save tools for later review, ensuring they never lose track of valuable resources and allowing for easy access during future projects.
Convenient Tool Management
Starting the design process
THE FRAMEWORK
Three primary questions informed my design strategy:
How do users search for ai tools?
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How long does it take to try each tool?
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Do they need to remember each tool?
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In the initial concept phase, we researched how users could conduct searches and concluded that we needed to establish a search algorithm based on our findings. Additionally, we needed to ensure that users could easily access their desired artificial intelligence tools from among dozens available.
To address these issues, we began conducting interviews with AI tool users.
Support them find what they are looking for
Prioritize users' inputted keywords in the search algorithm, along with sub-keywords related to the keywords found in our database by the search AI.
Provide previews, usage demonstration videos, and content summaries with bullet points for each tool on the product page to save users time from trying each tool individually. Additionally, offer a "short description" for users to quickly grasp the purpose of the tools during their initial scan.
Implement a feature allowing users to save tools to their profiles for later reference, as users may not remember every tool they come across, enabling them to filter and revisit tools conveniently.
Finding accurate results is the most important
The most important thing is to show users exactly what they are looking for. In the algorithm, priority should be given to ensuring that the keyword entered in the search bar matches the short description of the tools. Therefore, when creating the database, we must prioritize the short description. We should start building the system accordingly.
Additionally, AI tool owners should accurately enter this short description when submitting their tools, so we need to design the submit form accordingly.
I've designed the user flow to ensure a seamless and intuitive navigation experience, making it easy for users to explore the platform and access the features they need.
At DropYourAI, our primary focus is on delivering accurate results while providing core yet comprehensive information about the tools available on our platform. We strive to ensure accessibility for users of all backgrounds, making our platform user-friendly and inclusive.
Leveraging the support of AI technology intelligently, we aim to enhance the user experience and streamline processes effectively
DETAILED DESIGN
Communicating Design
For DropYourAI, my next step entailed segmenting the design compositions and assembling them into a prototype using Figma. Initially, my concentration was on depicting the most crucial areas of the design, ensuring clarity and functionality. As the project advanced, I directed my efforts towards refining micro-interactions to enhance the overall user experience.
Prototyping proved to be a vital tool for gathering valuable feedback from the team and obtaining approval. By effortlessly sharing these prototypes as working links, I facilitated collaboration and streamlined the feedback process. Additionally, these prototypes were repurposed for usability testing, enabling us to iteratively refine the product and ensure its continuous improvement."
A flexible architecture
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One of the most important revenue sources for the site was the income generated from listing AI tools. To encourage listing AI tools, we decided to feature three tools on the homepage (with a higher price). However, we noticed that users weren't engaging much with this homepage promotion.
By adding a small text below the three tools - 'If you have an AI tool, click here to get featured now!' - the rate of AI tools getting listed on the homepage increased by 87%.
With a wide variety of AI tools available, categorizing them into the correct categories posed a significant challenge. To address this issue, we utilized the card sorting method as a solution.
Focus on layout and highlights
from 8 participants
“…In my opinion, marketing and business are two distinct fields, and coding should also be separated on its own because there are many tools related to coding, and I would like to see them all together.”
“Marketing, Business and Productivity should be different categories.”
"I believe architecture is also related to design."
"Should we group general topics like dating, health, and education under a 'Life' category?"
I devised the flow with the aim of ensuring users can find anything they are looking for on DropYourAI. By prioritizing user confidence in their search queries, the platform seamlessly guides users to their desired outcomes.
In instances of uncertainty, the app prompts users to specify their requirements, ensuring a tailored and efficient search experience.
Bringing all insights and design decisions to life involves translating them into actionable steps for implementation. This includes collaborating closely with developers, conducting iterative design reviews, and refining prototypes based on user feedback.
By aligning the vision with technical capabilities and user needs, we ensure that the final product effectively reflects the insights and decisions made throughout the design process.
Bringing It All To Life
IMPLEMENTATION
The gallery below shows some of the designs
Search results
Homepage
AI influencers
Product details
During the validation phase, we gathered valuable data from users through a contact form, focusing on two key topics:
Collecting data from users
VALIDATION
Receiving daily recommendations
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Filtering free or freemium tools
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Simplifying the submission form
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“I'd like to see the free tools first and try them out before anything else. Also, is it possible for me to view random tools every day?”
Interestingly, the themes we identified during this period were the same issues we found after the launch.
Based on user feedback requesting to prioritize free tools, we've revamped the platform to prominently display free options at the forefront. This ensures that users can easily discover and explore tools without any financial commitment, aligning with their preferences and needs for affordability and accessibility.
Enhanced Free Tool Visibility
THE EVOLUTION
Responding to user requests for a dynamic and engaging experience, we've introduced a new feature allowing users to view random tools daily. This feature adds an element of surprise and discovery to the platform, enabling users to encounter new and interesting tools regularly, fostering continued engagement and exploration.
Daily Boosted Tool Feature
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“It's become like a virtual library where everyone can find what they're looking for.”
With an impressive debut, our journey of innovation sets sail as we welcome 2000 users in the first week. This remarkable start underscores the platform's appeal and the growing interest in our offerings.
As we embark on this exciting venture, we're energized by the enthusiasm of our early adopters and committed to delivering a transformative experience that exceeds expectations. With each new user, our community grows stronger, driving us forward on our path to success.
A Promising Beginning
THE IMPACT
“Such a user-friendly platform! I easily found the AI tool I needed without any hassle.”
"Love the daily random tool feature! It keeps things interesting and helps me discover new tools."
“The option to filter free tools is a game-changer. It's great to have the opportunity to try out tools before committing."
Throughout our journey, I've gleaned invaluable insights that have shaped our approach and fueled our progress. From understanding user preferences to refining our features, each step has been a learning opportunity.
One of the key takeaways has been the importance of user feedback in driving product improvement.
Additionally, I've learned the significance of adaptability and agility in responding to the evolving needs of our users and the market landscape.
These lessons continue to guide our decisions as we navigate the path forward, ensuring that we remain responsive, innovative, and focused on delivering value to our community.
Insights from Our Journey
REFLECTIONS
ArchiVinci AI
ux/ui design │ website│web app │generative AI integration
DropYourAI
ux/ui design │ website │ branding │ AI integration
Oscar Car Rental
new feature │ redesign website │ mobile app │ user testing
Furniture Shop App
ux/ui design │ mobille app │ AR/VR design │AR integration