Remind Learning aims to transform schools into environments where students learn effectively through experimentation, using fixed modules. As trainers currently rely on external platforms, I explored what a dedicated platform could look like as a trainer and UX designer during my graduation project. This resulted in a platform as a starting point for a potential next step.
Remind Learning wanted to consolidate four external platforms into a single environment for delivering training and mentoring sessions. While the initial goal was to create one central platform, user research revealed that the main frustration lay in the experience of creating and delivering presentations. The core challenge became designing a platform that improves this process, with the slide editor and presentation features as the primary focus, supported by preparation and evaluation tools that Remind Learning was already using.
The starting point, with 'how' to keep the solutions open.
“How might we help Remind Learning design a user-centered platform for trainers and mentors that combines the functionalities of existing platforms, enabling them to prepare, deliver, and evaluate Remind trainings more efficiently, without creating a steep, time-consuming learning curve or causing frustration and resistance?”
The specific end question after iterations during the proces.
“How might we help Remind Learning design a user-centered platform for trainers and mentors that combines the functionalities of existing platforms, enabling them to prepare, deliver, and evaluate Remind trainings more efficiently, without creating a steep, time-consuming learning curve or causing frustration and resistance?”
During the process, I deliberately applied the Double Diamond methodology to alternate between broad exploration and focused decision-making. By continuously gathering and applying insights, the user remained central throughout every phase.
It quickly became clear that the new Remind platform needed to be more than just a digital environment. To truly support teachers and trainers in preparing and delivering training sessions, the platform had to align with their workflows.
Using the SUE Behavioural Design methodology, I explored not only what tools trainers use, but more importantly, why they choose to use or avoid them. Translating these behavioral insights into design resulted in a platform that motivates users while supporting Remind’s organizational goals.
I applied a variety of research methods. This included contextual-, qualitative-, and quantitative research.
Through clustering and dot voting, I organized and prioritized insights and ideas to define clear design directions. I recognized that the middle of the trainer and mentor process was the most challenging, especially when preparing, creating, and delivering a training. As a result, the design challenge shifted from improving the entire process to focusing specifically on preparing and creating the training/lesson.
Then I created personas to represent the different user types. I tried to ensure that the most critical insights were embedded in each persona. Across both personas, a clear split in needs and expectations emerged:
Also I developed an experience map to visualize the user journey, highlight friction points.
After creating these two journeys and personas, I validated the main functions with both user groups. I then summarized them into Jobs to Be Done.
Because I had a three-month timeframe, I had to make choices and set a focus point after discussing with the client. I identified the following key points:
With these focus I started to do brainstorms.
After clustering I came up with three concepts with different solutions.
To test my ideas on a small scale, I created paper prototypes for some of the concepts and reviewed them with the stakeholders. I also placed the concepts into a Harris profile to see which ideas best fit the requirements.
Environment per user role
Ability to create a training for a trainer or a mentor lesson for a mentor in their own environment.
Choose an Remind training or lesson
Quickly select a Remind lesson or switch between lessons.
Gain inspiration
Gain inspiration before creating a lesson to get more out of a training as a trainer.
Edit slides
Ability to edit slides already created by Remind in the editing system & adapt difficult text on slides to make it more understandable for the target audience.
Context per slide & taking notes
Ability to take notes during the lesson in the presentation so that lesson moments or student responses are not forgotten, and to deliver a training or mentor lesson with contextual notes that are hidden from the audience and only visible to the presenter.
Extra help
Ability for mentors to understand the platform and receive guidance through a mascot called Learny (from the Remind style guide), as they do not use the platform as often as trainers.
Dutch prototype
English prototype
Yes, the platform is technically feasible. During the design process, I consulted technical experts. A developer confirmed that all desired features are achievable and explained how, while an AI expert provided guidance on chatbot integration, aligning with my EdTech trend research showing AI’s importance for stakeholders and future relevance.
Together with the client, I presented the HiFi prototype to international developers interested in realizing the project. They described it as 'straightforward', but advised thinking bigger to make it more cost-effective, scalable, and aligned with Remind’s overall mission. The value proposition supports this advice, suggesting expansion to include two additional user groups: admins and students.
“Can this platform be realized now?” - Trainer D
“This system has everything I need as a trainer.” - Trainer M
“It takes me less time as a mentor to prepare a mentor lesson.” - Mentor J
“I understand all the functions on the platform without any explanation." - Mentor M
“It’s great that you can now inspire each other too.” - Trainer C
I conducted an ethical and societal reflection on platform misuse, autonomy, inclusivity, accessibility, sustainability, and future-proofing. Key considerations for the future include:
Recommendations aligned with Remind’s mission, to think big:
The outcome of this project.
