The Evergreen Initiative
The Evergreen Initiative
A mobile platform for activating environmental awareness
and cultivating a conservation-conscious community in the Pacific Northwest.
A mobile platform for activating environmental awareness and cultivating a conservation-conscious community in the Pacific Northwest.
INTRODUCTION
INTRODUCTION
The Evergreen Initiative is a mobile app designed to raise environmental awareness and spark action in Seattle and across the Pacific Northwest.
The Evergreen Initiative is a mobile app designed to raise environmental awareness and spark action in Seattle and across the Pacific Northwest.
By gamifying plant conservation and building a community-driven experience, we made activism more accessible and rewarding — empowering people to connect, explore, and restore their local habitats and communities. Together.
By gamifying plant conservation and building a community-driven experience, we made activism more accessible and rewarding — empowering people to connect, explore, and restore their local habitats and communities. Together.
Context
Master's Project
HCDE @ UW
Client
Washington Native
Plant Society
My Role(s)
User Researcher
UX / UI Designer
Timeline
Six (6) Weeks
Autumn 2023
Team
1 PM + Tech
2 Designers
2 Researchers
Toolkit
Context
Master's Project
HCDE @ UW
Client
Washington Native
Plant Society
My Role(s)
User Researcher
UX / UI Designer
Timeline
Six (6) Weeks
Autumn 2023
Team
1 PM + Tech
2 Designers
2 Researchers
Toolkit
Context
Master's Project
HCDE @ UW
Sponsor
Washington Native
Plant Society
My Role
User Researcher
UX & UI Designer
Timeline
Six (6) Weeks
Autumn 2023
Team
1 PM + Tech
2 Designers
2 Researchers
Toolkit
Contribution & Impact
Contribution & Impact
For this project, I served in a dual researcher-designer role. As the generalist on a team of four (4), I led and contributed to key research and design efforts, shaping the product from discovery to delivery.
Below are a few highlights of my direct contributions:
My colleagues and I worked closely with the Washington Native Plant Society (WNPS), seeking
a solution to help the nonprofit organization better connect with people and increase engagement.
I conducted user interviews, a field study, and usability testing to uncover user needs and pain points, directly shaping design decisions.
I conducted user interviews, a field study, and usability testing to uncover user needs and pain points, directly shaping design decisions.
I created several task and user flows, specifically (1) the purchase and geotagging flow and (2) the event matching and registration flow.
I created several task and user flows, specifically the purchase and geotagging flow and the event matching and registration flow.
I built and refined the high-fidelity prototype based on usability feedback from the mid-fi, ensuring a more intuitive experience that met user needs.
I built and refined the high-fidelity prototype based on usability feedback, ensuring a more intuitive experience that met user needs.
I provided key usability recommendations and collaborated on the app's UI, leading the onboarding, profile, community, and social feature design.
I provided key usability recommendations and collaborated on the app's UI, leading the onboarding, profile, and community design.
THE CHALLENGE
The Pacific Northwest's biodiversity and ecosystems are at serious risk — but engaging young people in conservation efforts has proven difficult.
Climate change, invasive species, and urbanization are rapidly reshaping Washington's natural landscapes, threatening native plants, disrupting ecosystems, and putting key industries at risk. And for decades, the Washington Native Plant Society (WNPS) has championed efforts to combat these threats and protect and restore native species.
Yet despite their outreach, a crucial gap remains: engagement, particularly amongst younger generations, is low. And the future of conservation depends on planting *new* seeds of awareness and activism for it to take root.
THE CHALLENGE
The PNW's biodiversity and ecosystems are at serious risk — but engaging young people in conservation efforts has proven difficult.
Climate change, invasive species, and urbanization are rapidly reshaping Washington's natural landscapes, threatening native plants, disrupting ecosystems, and putting key industries at risk. And for decades, the Washington Native Plant Society (WNPS) has championed efforts to combat these threats and protect and restore native species.
Yet despite their outreach, a crucial gap remains: engagement, particularly amongst younger generations, is low. And the future of conservation depends on planting *new* seeds of awareness and activism for it to take root.
THE CHALLENGE
The Pacific Northwest's biodiversity and ecosystems are at serious risk —
but engaging young people in conservation efforts has proven difficult.
Climate change, invasive species, and urbanization are rapidly reshaping Washington's natural landscapes, threatening native plants, disrupting ecosystems, and putting key industries at risk. And for decades, the Washington Native Plant Society (WNPS) has championed efforts to combat these threats and protect and restore native species.
Yet despite their outreach, a crucial gap remains: engagement, particularly amongst younger generations, is low. And the future of conservation depends on planting *new* seeds of awareness and activism for it to take root.
Increased Awareness
and Education
Boosted Community
Engagement
Greater Volunteer
Retention
Stronger Social
Connections
Improved
Ecosystem Health
SOLUTION OVERVIEW
SOLUTION OVERVIEW
A Solution That Grows Awareness into Action
A Solution That Grows Awareness into Action
A Solution That Grows Awareness into Action
No time to read? No worries — here's the tl;dr.
Through a blend of educational content + conservation activities + gamification + social connection, Evergreen Initiative empowers people to take meaningful action, inspiring them to combat invasive species, restore local habitats, raise awareness, and nurture communities dedicated to preserving Washington's biodiversity.
No time to read? No worries — here's the tl;dr.
Through a blend of educational content + conservation activities + gamification + social connection, Evergreen Initiative empowers people to take meaningful action, inspiring them to combat invasive species, restore local habitats, raise awareness, and nurture communities dedicated to preserving Washington's biodiversity.
No time to read? No worries — here's the tl;dr.
Through a blend of educational content + conservation activities + gamification + social connection, Evergreen Initiative empowers people to take meaningful action, inspiring them to combat invasive species, restore local habitats, raise awareness, and nurture communities dedicated to preserving Washington's biodiversity.
Exploration Meets Education
Every plant has a unique story just waiting to be discovered. Users scan and geotag native plants to uncover their rich histories and build an interactive restoration map — enhancing education, deepening environmental awareness, and strengthening community conservation efforts.
Get Engaged, Earn Rewards
Gamification turns conservation into a rewarding adventure. Users participate in scavenger hunts, challenges, and activities to earn redeemable points at local businesses — making environmental action fun, interactive, and sustainable.
Connect Through Conservation
Conservation is more powerful when it's collaborative. The app matches users with local events tailored to their interests and helps them build lasting connections — turning activism into a community-driven movement.
01 Education Through Exploration
02
03
Every plant has a unique story just waiting to be discovered.
Users scan and geotag native plants to uncover their rich histories and build an interactive restoration map — enhancing education, deepening environmental awareness, and strengthening community conservation efforts.
Gamification turns conservation into a rewarding adventure.
Users participate in scavenger hunts, challenges, and activities to earn redeemable points at local businesses — making environmental action fun, interactive, and sustainable.
Conservation is more powerful (and fun!) when it's collaborative.
The app matches users with local events tailored to their interests and helps them build lasting connections — turning activism into a community-driven movement.
Featured Mockups
Featured Mockups
Hypothesized Impact
Hypothesized Impact
Activate Awareness, Cultivate Community
Activate Awareness, Cultivate Community
By fostering education, connection, and engagement, our solution could spark a movement and drive lasting involvement in conservation efforts — creating a ripple effect for healthier ecosystems and stronger communities.
Check out Metrics & Impact for how we might measure success.
By fostering education, connection, and engagement, our solution could spark a movement and drive lasting involvement in conservation efforts — creating a ripple effect for healthier ecosystems and stronger communities.
Increased Awareness
and Education
Boosted Community
Engagement
Greater Volunteer
Retention
Stronger Social
Connections
Improved
Ecosystem Health
So How Did We Get Here?
Here's the Full Story.
So How Did We Get Here?
Here's the Full Story.
So How Did We Get Here?
Here's the Full Story.
RESEARCH & INSIGHTS
RESEARCH & INSIGHTS
Primary Research Questions
Primary Research Questions
To design a solution that truly resonates with users, we needed to understand how people engage with conservation efforts, what motivates or discourages participation, and what they expect from conservation programs.
Our research focused on three (3) key questions:
To design a solution that truly resonates with users, we needed to understand how people engage with conservation efforts, what motivates or discourages participation, and what they expect from conservation programs.
Our research focused on three (3) key questions:
To design a solution that truly resonates with users, we needed to understand how people engage with conservation efforts, what motivates or discourages participation, and what they expect from conservation programs.
Our research focused on three (3) key questions:
01
How do people discover and access conservation resources and opportunities?
02
What factors motivate or deter participation in environmental initiatives (short and long term)?
03
What expectations do people have when engaging with conservation programs?
User Research
User Research
Methodologies
Methodologies
With themes of plant conservation and community building in mind, we conducted in-depth user research to gain a better understanding of our target audience as well as learn more about current preservation and engagement efforts.
To uncover perceptions, motivations, barriers, and opportunities, we triangulated the results from data derived from four (4) research methods:
With themes of plant conservation and community building in mind, we conducted in-depth user research to gain a better understanding of our target audience as well as learn more about current preservation and engagement efforts.
To uncover perceptions, motivations, barriers, and opportunities, we triangulated the results from data derived from four (4) research methods:
With themes of plant conservation and community building in mind, we conducted in-depth user research to gain a better understanding of our target audience as well as learn more about current preservation and engagement efforts.
To uncover perceptions, motivations, barriers, and opportunities, we triangulated the results from data derived from four (4) research methods:
User Interviews
4 Participants
User Surveys
13 Participants
Org. Research
WNPS
Contextual Inquiry
In the Field
User Interviews
4 Participants
User Surveys
13 Participants
Org. Research
WNPS
Contextual Inquiry
In the Field
User Interviews
4 Participants
User Surveys
13 Participants
Org. Research
WNPS
Contextual Inquiry
In the Field
User Interviews
User Interviews
Digging Deeper
Digging Deeper
We conducted 1:1 semi-structured interviews with four (4) participants recruited via local plant enthusiast and social groups on Facebook and Instagram. Each interview lasted approximately 1 hr and consisted of 6-8 open-ended questions.
We conducted 1:1 semi-structured interviews with four (4) participants recruited via local plant enthusiast and social groups on Facebook and Instagram. Each interview lasted approximately 1 hr
and consisted of 6-8 open-ended questions.
We conducted 1:1 semi-structured interviews with four (4) participants recruited via local plant enthusiast and social groups on Facebook and Instagram. Each interview lasted approximately 1 hr and consisted of 6-8 open-ended questions.
Why Conduct User Interviews?
Method Rationale
Why Conduct User Interviews?
Method Rationale
Why Conduct User Interviews?
Why Conduct User Interviews?
What We Learned
What We Learned
Insight
Limited Awareness and Visibility
Participants were interested in learning about conservation efforts, but didn't know where to start. They struggled to find reliable info about local efforts, organizations, and events.
Insight
Limited Awareness and Visibility
Participants were interested in learning about conservation efforts, but didn't know where to start. They struggled to find reliable info about local efforts, organizations, and events.
Insight
Meaningful Incentives Drive Engagement
Participants sought more than just the promise of positive environmental impact and were more likely to be motivated by opportunities to build social connections and directly contribute to their own communities.
Insight
Meaningful Incentives Drive Engagement
Participants sought more than just the promise of positive environmental impact and were more likely to be motivated by opportunities to build social connections and directly contribute to their own communities.
Insight
Convenience Matters
Participants indicated they'd be more likely to attend conservation events if they were nearby, accessible, timely, and easy to find information about and register to attend.
Insight
Convenience Matters
Participants indicated they'd be more likely to attend conservation events if they were nearby, accessible, timely, and easy to find information about and register to attend.
Online Surveys
Online Surveys
Branching Out
Branching Out
Along with user interviews, we crafted a quantitative survey to gather additional data from a broader audience. Our survey consisted of 15 questions, touching on a range of topics. Results allowed us to better understand general curiosity and awareness, as well as gauge interest in conservation efforts and community events.
Insights were derived from thirteen (13) responses.
Along with user interviews, we crafted a quantitative survey to gather additional data from a broader audience. Our survey consisted of 15 questions, touching on a range of topics. Results allowed us to better understand general curiosity and awareness, as well as gauge interest in conservation efforts and community events.
Insights were derived from thirteen (13) responses.
Along with user interviews, we crafted a quantitative survey to gather additional data from a broader audience. Our survey consisted of 15 questions, touching on a range of topics. Results allowed us to better understand general curiosity and awareness, as well as gauge interest in conservation efforts and community events.
Insights were derived from thirteen (13) responses.
Why Send Out Surveys?
Why Send Out Surveys?
Why Send Out Surveys?
Method Rationale
Why Send Out Surveys?
Method Rationale
What We Learned
What We Learned
Insight
Barriers to Participation
Participants cited several challenges to participation, including lack of awareness, financial constraints, limited educational outreach, and uncertainty about the efficacy of their efforts.
Insight
Barriers to Participation
Participants cited several challenges to participation, including lack of awareness, financial constraints, limited educational outreach, and uncertainty about the efficacy of their efforts.
Insight
Barriers to Participation
Participants cited several challenges to participation, including lack of awareness, financial constraints, limited educational outreach, and uncertainty about the efficacy of their efforts.
Insight
Enthusiasm for Engagement
Participants expressed interest in plant stewardship, community events, and volunteering, highlighting an opportunity for organizing more structured programs and activities.
Insight
Enthusiasm for Engagement
Participants expressed interest in plant stewardship, community events, and volunteering, highlighting an opportunity for organizing more structured programs and activities.
Insight
Enthusiasm for Engagement
Participants expressed interest in plant stewardship, community events, and volunteering, highlighting an opportunity for organizing more structured programs and activities.
Insight
Building Confidence in Taking Action
While some felt confident in individual preservation efforts, others felt more capable within group settings. Guided opportunities could encourage more autonomous actions over time.
Insight
Building Confidence in Taking Action
While some felt confident in individual preservation efforts, others felt more capable within group settings. Guided opportunities could encourage more autonomous actions over time.
Insight
Building Confidence in Taking Action
While some felt confident in individual preservation efforts, others felt more capable within group settings. Guided opportunities could encourage more autonomous actions over time.
Organizational Research
Organizational Research
In the Weeds
In the Weeds
We evaluated he Washington Native Plant Society's website — along with other similar conservation nonprofits — to learn about what organizations are doing to promote native plant conservation and habitat restoration, the types of events they are running, and what information they provide for users.
We evaluated he Washington Native Plant Society's website — along with other similar conservation nonprofits — to learn about what organizations are doing to promote native plant conservation and habitat restoration, the types of events they are running, and what information they provide for users.
We evaluated he Washington Native Plant Society's website —
along with other similar conservation nonprofits — to learn about what organizations are doing to promote native plant conservation and habitat restoration, the types of events they are running, and what information they provide for users.
What We Learned
What We Learned
Insight
Cognitive Overload
The WNPS website lacks a clear content strategy, functioning more like a dense database. Overloaded with information, it creates an overwhelming experience instead of providing accessible, easily digestible content.
Insight
Cognitive Overload
The WNPS website lacks a clear content strategy, functioning more like a dense database. Overloaded with information, it creates an overwhelming experience instead of providing accessible, easily digestible content.
Insight
Cognitive Overload
The WNPS website lacks a clear content strategy, functioning more like a dense database. Overloaded with information, it creates an overwhelming experience instead of providing accessible, easily digestible content.
Contextual Inquiry
Contextual Inquiry
In the Field
In the Field
To deepen our understanding of the challenges facing the WNPS, we conducted a field study — a method that allowed us to gather firsthand insights by immersing ourselves directly in the WNPS community. We attended a WNPS-hosted event, where we engaged with organizers and a diverse mix of participants, from seasoned volunteers with extensive knowledge of native plants to newcomers who had recently moved to the city.
To deepen our understanding of the challenges facing the WNPS, we conducted a field study — a method that allowed us to gather firsthand insights by immersing ourselves directly in the WNPS community. We attended a WNPS-hosted event, where we engaged with organizers and a diverse mix of participants, from seasoned volunteers with extensive knowledge of native plants to newcomers who had recently moved to the city.
To deepen our understanding of the challenges facing the WNPS, we conducted a field study — a method that allowed us to gather firsthand insights by immersing ourselves directly in the WNPS community. We attended a WNPS-hosted event, where we engaged with organizers and a diverse mix of participants, from seasoned volunteers with extensive knowledge of native plants to newcomers who had recently moved to the city.
Why Use Contextual Inquiry?
Method Rationale
Why Use Contextual Inquiry?
Method Rationale
Why Use Contextual Inquiry?
Why Use Contextual Inquiry?
What We Learned
What We Learned
Insight
Bridging Knowledge Gaps
Novice volunteers felt uncertain about expectations, their own expertise, and stepping out of their comfort zone — limiting engagement. Connecting them with experienced volunteers can boost confidence and create opportunities for knowledge-sharing.
Insight
Bridging Knowledge Gaps
Novice volunteers felt uncertain about expectations, their own expertise, and stepping out of their comfort zone — limiting engagement. Connecting them with experienced volunteers can boost confidence and create opportunities for knowledge-sharing.
Insight
Bridging Knowledge Gaps
Novice volunteers felt uncertain about expectations, their own expertise, and stepping out of their comfort zone — limiting engagement. Connecting them with experienced volunteers can boost confidence and create opportunities for knowledge-sharing.
Insight
Lack of Continuity
Engagement drops off after events, with limited opportunities for reconnection. A solution that fosters community and ongoing interaction can encourage sustained participation and long-term involvement.
Insight
Lack of Continuity
There is a notable decline in engagement and re-connection after events end. Our goal is to provide a solution that encourages community and connection, leading to repeated and continuous engagement.
Insight
Lack of Continuity
There is a notable decline in engagement and re-connection after events end. Our goal is to provide a solution that encourages community and connection, leading to repeated and continuous engagement.
Strategic Alignment
Strategic Alignment
Finding Common Ground
Finding Common Ground
Understanding the overlap between business and user goals was key to creating a solution that would resonate and drive engagement. Identifying shared priorities — like focusing on local impact, building community connections, and simplifying access to resources — helped us tailor our design to meet both user needs and organizational objectives, ensuring that our solution would be both user-centered and mission-aligned.
Understanding the overlap between business and user goals was key to creating a solution that would resonate and drive engagement. Identifying shared priorities — like focusing on local impact, building community connections, and simplifying access to resources — helped us tailor our design to meet both user needs and organizational objectives, ensuring that our solution would be both user-centered and mission-aligned.
Understanding the overlap between business and user goals was key
to creating a solution that would resonate and drive engagement. Identifying shared priorities — like focusing on local impact, building community connections, and simplifying access to resources — helped us tailor our design to meet both user needs and organizational objectives, ensuring that our solution would be both user-centered and mission-aligned.
DESIGN PROCESS
DESIGN PROCESS
How might we transform environmental conservation into an engaging and participatory experience that fosters community and connection?
How might we transform environmental conservation into an engaging and participatory experience that fosters community and connection?
How might we transform environmental conservation into an engaging and participatory experience that fosters community and connection?
Design Goals
Design Goals
Guiding Design Principles
Guiding Design Principles
After analyzing the data found during our research phase and reframing our problem statement, we crafted a set of design goals to guide our process and our prototype.
From our user feedback, we determined that the design solution should…
After analyzing the data found during our research phase and reframing our problem statement, we
crafted a set of design goals to guide our process
and our prototype.
From our user feedback, we determined that the design solution should…
After analyzing the data found during our research phase and reframing our problem statement, we crafted a set of design goals to guide our process and our prototype.
From our user feedback, we determined that the design solution should…
CONCEPT DEVELOPMENT
Transforming Concepts Into Features
Building off the data and insights from our research, we began the ideation stage of our design process.
Building off the data and insights from our research, we began the ideation stage of our design process.
Feature Ideation
Ideation & Sketching
We started with sketching! No rules for this session; we just wanted to produce cool ideas and concepts. Between the four of us, we sketched over 20 different ideas. Below are some concepts that emerged from our quick, 10-minute brainstorming exercise.
We started with sketching! No rules for this session; we just wanted to produce cool ideas and concepts. Between the four of us, we sketched over 20 different ideas. Below are some concepts that emerged from our quick, 10-minute brainstorming exercise.
Defining the UX
From the information gathered from our research — as well as some ideas from our brainstorming session — we began crafting the user experience.
Task Flows
Plotting the Path
We mapped out task flows to inform our prototype, imagining some of the core actions and basic features:
Task Flow #1 — Sow Your Newly Purchased Plant
Task Flow #2 — Find and Attend an Event
User Flows
Branching Pathways
Branching off from the diagrammed task flows, we created some basic scenarios and user flows, tracing the persona's journey through the design.
Branching off from the diagrammed task flows, we created some basic scenarios and user flows, tracing the persona's journey through the design.
User Flow #1 — Sow Your Newly Purchased Plant
Scenario: Sophie recently bought a plant through WNPS. She wants to plant it in her backyard, but is unsure what care and supplies are needed.
Scenario: Sophie recently bought a plant through WNPS. She wants to plant it in her backyard, but is unsure what care and supplies are needed.
User Flow #2 — Register for an Event
Scenario: Sophie recently bought a plant through WNPS. At the plant sale, she learned about their restoration efforts and wants to attend some local events to get involved.
Scenario: Sophie recently bought a plant through WNPS. At the plant sale, she learned about their restoration efforts and wants to attend some local events to get involved.
MID-FIDELITY WIREFRAMES
MID-FIDELITY WIREFRAMES
Wireframe Mockups
Wireframe Mockups
Translating the sketched concepts into mid-fidelity wireframes, we began to layout all the pages we'd need for a rough prototype to test with users. Below are a few of the onboarding screens and key pages:
Translating the sketched concepts into mid-fidelity wireframes, we began to layout all the pages we'd need for a rough prototype to test with users. Below are a few of the onboarding screens and key pages:
PROTOTYPE DEVELOPMENT
Mid-Fidelity Prototype
With the bones of our application realized, we created a mid-fidelity prototype of our design solution. A brief flow of the prototype is below:
With the bones of our application realized, we created a mid-fidelity prototype of our design solution. A brief flow of the prototype is below:
01
Scan the QR Code
The user buys a plant from a partnered organization and scans the QR code on the plant's tag.
The user buys a plant from a partnered organization and scans the QR code on the plant's tag.
02
Claim Your Plant
They’re prompted to "claim" the plant by geotagging the location where they plant it.
They’re prompted to "claim" the plant by geotagging the location where they plant it.
03
Grow Your Garden
The app then provides planting instructions, details on who sourced the plant, and FAQs on care tips.
The app then provides planting instructions, details on who sourced the plant, and FAQs
on care tips.
USABILITY TESTING
USABILITY TESTING
Rooting Out Issues
Rooting Out Issues
Using a mid-fidelity prototype in Figma, we conducted in-person moderated usability tests with four (4) users, interviewed individually, allowing for immediate feedback and clarification.
Participants were presented with a scenario and directed to complete a series of tasks. Users were familiarized with and asked to practice the "think aloud" protocol, providing a continuous commentary of their thoughts, perceptions, and experiences as they navigated the app and interacted with the various features.
Using a mid-fidelity prototype in Figma, we conducted in-person moderated usability tests with four (4) users, interviewed individually, allowing for immediate feedback and clarification.
Participants were presented with a scenario and directed to complete a series of tasks. Users were familiarized with and asked to practice the "think aloud" protocol, providing a continuous commentary of their thoughts, perceptions, and experiences as they navigated the app and interacted with the various features.
Using a mid-fidelity prototype in Figma, we conducted in-person moderated usability tests with four (4) users, interviewed individually, allowing for immediate feedback and clarification.
Participants were presented with a scenario and directed to complete a series of tasks. Users were familiarized with and asked to practice the "think aloud" protocol, providing a continuous commentary of their thoughts, perceptions, and experiences as they navigated the app and interacted with the various features.
Scenario & Task List
Scenario & Task List
Imagine the Following Scenario…
Imagine the Following Scenario…
You've recently purchased a plant from the Washington Native Plant Society's plant sale.
You've taken it home and noticed the QR code on the plant label.
You've recently purchased a plant from the Washington Native Plant Society's plant sale.
You've taken it home and noticed the QR code on the plant label.
You've recently purchased a plant from the Washington Native Plant Society's plant sale. You've taken it home and noticed the QR code on the plant label.
How Might You ...?
How Might You ...?
Sow Your New Plant
Find tips for planting and care.
Explore Your Plant's History
Learn about your recent purchase.
Register For An Event
Find an event and sign up.
Data Analysis
Data Analysis
Uncovering the Pain Points
Uncovering the Pain Points
Building off our thematic findings from the usability test, we identified the following key pain points:
Building off our thematic findings from the usability test, we identified the following key pain points:
Navigation
Navigation
Users reported difficulty navigating through the information architecture of the app.
Users reported difficulty navigating through the information architecture of the app.
Plant Documentation
Plant Documentation
Users were unclear about the process of claiming their plants and what it might involve.
Users were unclear about the process of "claiming" and what it might involve.
Limited Geotagging Feature
Limited Geotagging Feature
Users were pleased with geotagging, but felt that meaningful information was missing.
Users were pleased with geotagging, but felt that meaningful information was missing.
Disconnection from Information
Disconnection from Information
Users felt disconnected from some information, but wanted to learn more about the cultural and ecological history of their plants.
Users felt disconnected from some information, but wanted to learn about the cultural and ecological history of their plants.
Limited Gamification
Limited Gamification
Users were excited about the gamification elements, but wanted more from the rewards system.
Users were excited about the gamification, but wanted more from the rewards system.
Lack of Social Connection
Lack of Social Connection
Users wanted more ways to interact and stay connected with people in the community.
Users wanted more ways to interact and stay connected with people in the community.
DESIGN ITERATION
DESIGN ITERATION
Incorporating User Feedback
Incorporating User Feedback
Based on our usability analysis, we iterated on the design and made the following adjustments:
Based on our usability analysis, we iterated on the design and made the following adjustments:
Based on our usability analysis, we iterated on the design and made the following adjustments:
Before Usability Testing
Before Usability Testing
After Usability Testing
After Usability Testing
VISUAL STYLE GUIDE
Designing the Interface
For the visual design, we kept the typography very simple and filled the color palette with variations of natural green, with a pop of golden yellow on the call-to-action buttons for contrast.
For the visual design, we kept the typography very simple and filled the color palette with variations of natural green, with a pop of golden yellow on the call-to-action buttons for contrast.
FINAL SOLUTION
FINAL SOLUTION
High-Fidelity Mockups
High-Fidelity Mockups
After settling on the interface design, we combined the mid-fidelity wireframes with the UI elements to produce our final design solution.
After settling on the interface design, we combined the mid-fidelity wireframes with the UI elements to produce our final design solution.
After settling on the interface design, we combined the mid-fidelity wireframes with the UI elements to produce our final design solution.
Featured Mockups
Featured Mockups
Prototyping
Prototyping
Interactive Figma Prototype
Interactive Figma Prototype
Scan the QR code with a mobile device to interact with a hi-fidelity prototype of the the design solution via Figma. Alternatively, a web link to the prototype is available here. Enjoy!
Interact with a hi-fidelity prototype of the the design solution via Figma. Link to the prototype is available here. Enjoy!
Scan the QR code with a mobile device to interact with a hi-fidelity prototype of the the design solution via Figma. Alternatively, a web link to the prototype is available here. Enjoy!
FINAL SOLUTION
Key Features & Interactions
Check out some of the key features and interactions below! I've highlighted some of our design decisions and the reasoning behind them.
Check out some of the key features and interactions below! I've highlighted our design decisions and the reasoning behind them.
01
Geotag Your Plant
Design Decision
Users scan their plant's QR code and are prompted to geotag it in the app, allowing users to track restoration efforts citywide.
Design Rationale
User feedback revealed a strong interest in understanding
the broader impact of their contributions. Geotagging helps users visualize restoration progress, fostering a sense of community and strengthening local connections.
02
Explore Plant History
Design Decision
Users can explore the history, ecological importance, and cultural significance of native plants in their community.
This feature fosters awareness and education, encouraging deeper environmental connection by revealing the unique stories behind the plants users grow, tag, and encounter.
Design Rationale
Access to plant history sparks curiosity and strengthens user appreciation. By understanding the cultural and ecological roles of native plants, users are more likely to value their importance and be motivated to take an active role in conservation efforts.
Access to plant history sparks curiosity and strengthens user appreciation. By understanding the cultural and ecological roles of native plants, users are more likely to value their importance and be motivated to take an active role in conservation efforts.
03
Get Engaged, Earn Points
Design Decision
Users participate in neighborhood scavenger hunts and
other challenges, following clues to discover local plants in
the database. This gamified approach encourages social interaction and strengthens community connections.
Users participate in neighborhood scavenger hunts and
other challenges, following clues to discover local plants in
the database. This gamified approach encourages social interaction and strengthens community connections.
Design Rationale
Gamification makes conservation fun and accessible, encouraging users to actively explore their environment.
A points-based reward system fosters ongoing participation and reinforces community ties, diversifying engagement and turning activism into a collaborative experience.
04
Redeem Rewards
Design Decision
Users earn points for tagging plants, participating in activities, and attending events. These points can be redeemed for discounts at local coffee shops, free plants at native plant sales, and other community perks — all by simply scanning a redemption code at participating businesses.
Design Rationale
Tangible rewards strengthen engagement by connecting conservation efforts to real-world benefits. Gamification encourages ongoing participation and feedback showed that users were especially motivated when rewards were directly tied to their local community.
Tangible rewards strengthen engagement by connecting conservation efforts to real-world benefits. Gamification encourages ongoing participation and feedback showed that users were especially motivated when rewards were directly tied to their local community.
05
Find Events Near You
Design Decision
The app's event-matching tool helps users browse local events or take a quiz to find activities based on their interests, helping users discover social and volunteer opportunities while setting clear expectations on time commitment, friend attendance, and other key details.
The app's event-matching tool helps users browse local events or take a quiz to find activities based on their interests, helping users discover social and volunteer opportunities while setting clear expectations on time commitment, friend attendance, and other key details.
Design Rationale
User research revealed strong interest in events, but many struggled to find opportunities aligned with their interests and goals. This feature removes that barrier by personalizing event recommendations and streamlining the registration process.
User research revealed strong interest in events, but many struggled to find opportunities aligned with their interests and goals. This feature removes that barrier by personalizing event recommendations and streamlining the registration process.
06
Stay Connected
Design Decision
Users can connect with others in their community who share similar interests. Keep in touch, start conversations, and share plant-related questions or photos in the community forum.
Users can connect with others in their community who share similar interests. Keep in touch, start conversations, and share plant-related questions or photos in the community forum.
Design Rationale
To strengthen community ties and combat the “Seattle Freeze,” we introduced friending, chat, and discussion features that encourage users to build meaningful social bonds.
To strengthen community ties and combat the “Seattle Freeze,” we introduced friending, chat, and discussion features that encourage users to build meaningful social bonds.
METRICS & IMPACT
METRICS & IMPACT
Hypothesized Impact
Hypothesized Impact
By fostering education, connection, and engagement, our solution could spark a movement and drive lasting involvement in conservation efforts — creating a ripple effect for healthier ecosystems and stronger communities.
By fostering education, connection, and engagement, our solution could spark a movement and drive lasting involvement in conservation efforts — creating a ripple effect for healthier ecosystems and stronger communities.
By fostering education, connection, and engagement, our solution could spark a movement and drive lasting involvement in conservation efforts — creating a ripple effect for healthier ecosystems and stronger communities.
Increased Awareness
and Education
Boosted Community
Engagement
Greater Volunteer
Retention
Stronger Social
Connections
Improved
Ecosystem Health
Increased Awareness
and Education
Boosted Community
Engagement
Greater Volunteer
Retention
Stronger Social
Connections
Improved
Ecosystem Health
Increased Awareness
and Education
Boosted Community
Engagement
Greater Volunteer
Retention
Stronger Social
Connections
Improved
Ecosystem Health
Measuring Success
What Metrics Might Determine Success?
To measure the value and impact of the Evergreen Initiative application, we might examine the following metrics:
To measure the value and impact of the Evergreen Initiative application, we might examine the following metrics:
Metrics & KPIs
Value Proposition
Value Proposition
Learn, Earn, & Connect
Learn, Earn, & Connect
Our solution helps users discover and engage more with the plant conservation cause, connect with others in their community, and earn redeemable rewards for their participation. The application provides value to not only our users, but also the stakeholders at the WNPS, the local communities of Seattle, and the environment itself.
Our solution helps users discover and engage more with the plant conservation cause, connect with others in their community, and earn redeemable rewards for their participation. The application provides value to not only our users, but also the stakeholders at the WNPS, the local communities of Seattle, and the environment itself.
Our solution helps users discover and engage more with the plant conservation cause, connect with others in their community, and earn redeemable rewards for their participation. The application provides value to not only our users, but also the stakeholders at the WNPS, the local communities of Seattle, and the environment itself.
RETROSPECTIVE
RETROSPECTIVE
Project Reflection
Project Reflection
Our OG goal was to raise environmental awareness and support for WNPS, while helping Seattleites connect over their love of plants. But during initial ideation, we struggled to decide which aspect of the problem should be prioritized — plant conservation or social connection?
User research and usability testing clarified that social connection was key, but education and conservation remained essential to our mission. By iterating and trusting our research, I think we achieved a balanced solution that successfully blends education, engagement, and activism.
Our OG goal was to raise environmental awareness and support for WNPS, while helping Seattleites connect over their love of plants. But during initial ideation, we struggled to decide which aspect of the problem should be prioritized — plant conservation or social connection?
User research and usability testing clarified that social connection was key, but education and conservation remained essential to our mission. By iterating and trusting our research, I think we achieved a balanced solution that successfully blends education, engagement, and activism.
Our OG goal was to raise environmental awareness and support for WNPS, while helping Seattleites connect over their love of plants. But during initial ideation, we struggled to decide which aspect of the problem should be prioritized — plant conservation or social connection?
User research and usability testing clarified that social connection was key, but education and conservation remained essential to our mission. By iterating and trusting our research, I think we achieved a balanced solution that successfully blends education, engagement, and activism.
Lessons Learned
Lessons Learned
Key Takeaways
Key Takeaways
Test Early and Often
Seek out real user feedback as quickly as possible. Conducting research early on and revisiting those insights throughout the project helped us ground our design decisions.
Balancing User Needs and Organizational Goals
It was challenging to find the right balance between providing useful, educational information and a socially-focused experience. Understanding that overlap helped our solution stay mission-driven, but address real user motivations and barriers.
As the first project of my masters program, I learned a great deal about the design process through this sprint.
Some of my main learnings were as follows:
As the first project of my masters program, I learned a great deal about the design process through this sprint.
Some of my main learnings were as follows:
As the first project of my masters program, I learned a great deal about the design process through this sprint. Some of my main learnings were as follows:
Test Early and Often
Seek out real user feedback as quickly as possible. Conducting research early on and revisiting those insights throughout the project helped us ground our design decisions.
Balancing User Needs and Organizational Goals
It was challenging to find the right balance between providing useful, educational information and a socially-focused experience. Understanding that overlap helped our solution stay mission-driven, but address real user motivations and barriers.
Test Early and Often
Seek out real user feedback as soon as possible. Conducting research early on and revisiting those insights throughout the project helped us ground our design decisions.
Balancing User Needs and
Organizational Goals
It was challenging to find the right balance between providing useful, educational information and a socially-focused experience. Understanding that overlap helped our solution stay mission-driven, but address real user motivations and barriers.
Alternative Approaches
Alternative Approaches
What I Might Have Done Differently
What I Might Have Done Differently
If I could do it all again, I might make the following tweaks:
If I could do it all again, I might make the following tweaks:
If I could do it all again, I might make the following tweaks:
Test Concepts, Not Just Usability
I would have allowed more time for concept testing in the ideation phase. The unique balance of features were crucial to the direction of our design and getting feedback earlier would have saved us valuable time and resources under the tight constraints.
Expand on Gamification and Community Engagement Features
I would have liked to explore additional ways to strengthen community connections and expand gamification features for a more robust and engaging experience.
Test Concepts, Not Just Usability
I would have allowed more time for concept testing in the ideation phase. The unique balance of features were crucial to the direction of our design and getting feedback earlier would have saved us valuable time and resources under the tight constraints.
Expand on Gamification and Community Engagement Features
I would have liked to explore additional ways to strengthen community connections and expand gamification features for a more
robust and engaging experience.
Test Concepts, Not Just Usability
I would have allowed more time for concept testing in the ideation phase. The unique balance of features were crucial to the direction of our design and getting feedback earlier would have saved us valuable time and resources under the tight constraints.
Expand on Gamification and Community Engagement Features
I would have liked to explore additional ways to strengthen community connections and expand gamification features for a more robust and engaging experience.
Future Considerations
Future Considerations
What's Next?
What's Next?
In future iterations, I would like to explore the following:
In future iterations, I would like to explore the following:
In future iterations, I would like to explore the following:
Plant Identification
Plant Identification
Work on a plant scanning and identification feature.
Develop a plant scanning and identification feature.
Expand Gamification
Expand Gamification
Build out the gamification features with more diversity and rewards.
Build out the gamification features with more diversity and rewards.
Expand Social Engagement Features
Expand Social Engagement Features
Explore more interactions between users in the community, both in-app and in-person.
Explore more interactions between users in the community, both in-app and in-person.
THANK YOU FOR VISITING!
THANK YOU FOR VISITING!
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