Storyboarding in UX Design

Introduction to Storyboarding

• Definition: A series of panels or frames that visually describe and explore a user's experience with a product.
• Purpose: Transition from identifying the user's problem to ideating solutions.
• Comparison: Similar to storyboarding in movies/commercials but focused on user experience.

Importance in UX Design

• Visual Connection: Links research insights to the flow of user experience.
• Communication Tool: Helps explain ideas to stakeholders by visualizing product usage.
• Focus: Centers on the most crucial parts of the user’s experience.

Elements of a Storyboard

1. Character: The user in the story.
2. Scene: The user’s environment.
3. Plot: The benefit or solution provided by the design.
4. Narrative: The user’s need/problem and the design's solution.

Storyboard Template

• Scenario: A short sentence explaining the user and their problem.
• Visuals: Sketches that guide through the user's experience.
• Captions: Descriptions combining visuals and scenario, explaining user interaction. Useful for hard-to-sketch interactions.

Example: Six-Panel Storyboard

• Problem Statement: Amal is an athlete needing to sign up for workout classes.
• Goal Statement: Help athletes sign up for classes early and quickly.
• Storyboard Walkthrough:
  1. Amal is frustrated at the gym due to unavailability of classes.
  2. Amal opens an app on his phone at home.
  3. Zoom in on Amal scheduling a workout class via a calendar app.
  4. Amal selects a workout class.
  5. Confirmation screen for class registration.
  6. Amal attends the class happily.

Conclusion

• Basics of storyboards covered.
• Upcoming: Exploration of types of storyboards and their appropriate usage.