PostUp
Find a place to work, wherever you are
PROJECT TYPE: Mobile App
ROLE: Lead UX/UI Designer
INTRODUCTION
This case study explores the development of PostUp, a solution designed to address the challenges freelancers face when searching for suitable public workspaces. Many freelancers struggle to find locations that meet their needs for amenities, seating, and a work-friendly environment, often relying on general-purpose tools like Google Maps or Yelp that fail to account for their unique requirements. To tackle this issue, I employed a modified 5-day GV Design Sprint, compressing its structured process to ideate, design, and prototype a tailored app for this user group.
Through user research, I identified key pain points: freelancers need reliable Wi-Fi, available outlets, quiet spaces, and sufficient privacy for calls and client meetings. They value locations that balance affordability with amenities and a welcoming atmosphere. Inspired by features from apps like Airbnb, Google Maps, and Yelp, I designed PostUp to combine detailed search and filter capabilities, user-generated reviews, and an interactive map to create an intuitive and effective workspace-finding tool.
As the sole designer, I analyzed research data, sketched concepts, and developed the prototype while considering its feasibility and user experience via usability testing. The final solution prioritizes freelancers’ specific needs and lays the groundwork for a practical and scalable platform.
DAY 1 - MAPPING
PROBLEM
Many freelancers struggle to find “good” public places where to do work outside of their home. Searching for appropriate locations is time consuming and often results in less-than-desirable outcomes when the location found fails the freelancer’s hopes, needs, or expectations.
SUMMARY OF RESEARCH INSIGHTS
Freelancers don’t have a custom tool that satisfies their specific needs, namely, to find “the right” place to work from when on-the-go. They rely on Google or Yelp searches and online reviews when deciding on potential working locations, especially when in unfamiliar parts of town. Most PostUp users desire a work-friendly location that has available seating and isn’t too noisy for taking calls or meetings with clients and coworkers. Basic amenities needed (especially for longer work sessions at a place) include reliable wifi, outlets, restrooms, and sufficient space to set up a proper (e.g., somewhat private) work station. Good food or coffee is an added bonus. While freelancers prefer not to spend too much money at the locations they find for work, they are willing to do it in order to gain access to the place’s amenities without hostility from the place’s staff and/or management.
MAP OF POSSIBLE END-TO-END USER EXPERIENCE
DAY 2 - SKETCHING
LIGHTNING DEMOS
To prepare for the Lightning Demos, I began by researching apps that could inspire design features for PostUp. I immediately thought of Airbnb, an app I use frequently and appreciate for its intuitive design. Specifically, I focused on Airbnb’s filter options, interactive map, and post-service rating system, all of which could inform PostUp’s features.
After considering Airbnb, I wanted to find other apps with strong community, map, or review elements. Google Maps and Yelp came to mind, but I wanted to explore more niche options. I searched Google on my iPhone and found a 2018 article (https://wifitribe.co/blog/find-coworking-space/) listing potential coworking apps (e.g., Workform, Work Hard Anywhere), but most were outdated, buggy, or non-functional. Apps like Virtlo and Nomad Life, found through the App Store, seemed promising but ultimately lacked functionality and an inspiring user experience.
Finally, I reviewed Google Maps and Yelp directly. While not specific to coworking, they offer robust mapping, search, and rating features that are valuable for PostUp.​​​
Chosen Apps for Lightning Demos
After evaluating various options, I decided to focus on three apps for the Lightning Demos:
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Airbnb: For its filtering options, interactive maps, and post-service rating system.
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Google Maps: For its extensive mapping and location-based search capabilities.
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Yelp; For its effective user review and rating features.
These apps offer specific, well-executed features that can provide inspiration for PostUp’s design.
#AIRBNB
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Key Relevant Features:
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Responsive, sensitive, and interactive map - moves with one finger
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Clickable locations/places on map - showing quick preview when clicked on
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Very detailed filters for location/place search
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Clear directions about how to get to location you’ve selected - by walking, driving or public transportation
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Amenities listed prominently and clearly
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Great exit survey to review a place and improve filtered search
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Photos, ratings and reviews available
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Feature showing price range
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Option to mark a place as favorite
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Option to enter any location manually
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Contact info for the place/location upon booking
#GOOGLE MAPS
Key Relevant Features:
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Responsive, sensitive, and interactive map - moves with one finger; shows places by category/type directly on map (e.g., restaurant symbol, cafe symbol location, etc.)
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Directions to get there - by walking, driving, or public transportation
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Google-powered search
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Photos, ratings, and reviews available
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Feature showing whether a place is open and peak traffic hours per day
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Option to mark a place as favorite
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Option to enter location manually (if you don’t want the phone to pickup your current location)
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Contact info for the place/location
#YELP
Key Relevant Features:
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Responsive, sensitive, and interactive map - moves with one finger; shows places numbered
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Flexible search - using various search words
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Good
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Option to save a location/place
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Very detailed filters for location/place search
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Option to enter location manually (if you don’t want the phone to pickup your current location)
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Photos, ratings, and reviews available
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Amenities listed prominently and clearly
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Contact info for the place/location​
SELECTING THE MOST CRITICAL SCREEN
I consider the “Select a Place” screen to be the most critical in the user journey for PostUp. This screen is where the user narrows down their choices and makes the key decision about which location to visit. Once users make their choice, the hardest part of the journey—identifying the right place—is complete. From there, the remaining steps are more straightforward: they just need to visit the location to experience it in person. Thus, this screen represents the peak of the user’s journey, where all the research and decision-making align, making it the most impactful in converting interest into action.
CRAZY 8S
SOLUTION SKETCH
DAY 3 - DECIDING
PROCESS
For this project, I considered several solutions to create an intuitive user experience inspired by familiar apps like Google Maps, Airbnb, and Yelp. My strategy was to leverage well-established design patterns while adding unique touches to enhance convenience and user engagement.
I opted for a solution that would guide users through clear, purposeful steps from search to decision-making and beyond. First, I included an introductory screen with two primary actions: selecting a location (a geographical area) and choosing a type of place (like a cafe or restaurant). This screen provides clarity by showing users where to start, rather than dropping them directly into a map view and potentially getting them overwhelmed.
Once the user makes these selections, a large, interactive map opens, with collapsible search results (list of all places) that can be expanded or hidden as needed. To improve usability, I designed the experience so that highlighting (tapping on) a specific place on the map shows only that place’s details, reducing clutter and helping users focus.
To aid decision-making, I introduced a feature where users can shortlist their top three places, view them side-by-side, and compare features before making a final choice. This added step provides users with a structured, side-by-side evaluation process (as opposed to just clicking on map items, one-by-one) which many similar apps lack. After selecting a place, the map directs them there, and upon arrival, they’re encouraged to check in. The check-out prompt at departure invites them to complete an exit survey, giving them the option to review, save as favorite, or share additional feedback. After finishing, the app thanks the user and returns to the introductory screen.
In choosing this flow, I aimed to blend familiarity with thoughtful guidance and additional steps to make the experience both straightforward and uniquely engaging. Below is my 15-panel storyboard visualizing the above process.
15-PANEL STORYBOARD
DAY 4 - PROTOTYPING
MID-FI WIREFRAMES
INTERACTIVE PROTOTYPE
For the purpose of sprint expedience, I used Marvel (marvelapp.com) to create my 15-screen prototype https://marvelapp.com/prototype/1bc4ai39:
This prototype was designed to get the user started with a streamlined search experience for finding the most suitable location—whether by geographical area or type of establishment (cafe, restaurant, bistro, etc.). Rather than starting with a map, the app opens with a dual search field, aiming to simplify the process. Users can choose to search by location (“search where?”) or by type of place (“search what?”), each leading to a more detailed screen with further filters and options. For location searches, recent searches are readily available to provide quick access. In searching by type, the app offers relevant filters based on user research insights, including criteria like Wi-Fi availability, power outlets, food options, price range, noise level, and seating setup or availability.
Once the user completes their search, the map populates with matching locations. There’s also a bottom sheet modal displaying these places in order of proximity to the user’s current location. Users can select an “eye” icon next to any location to mark it for further viewing and comparison. Clicking on a specific map pin shows only that location’s details in the bottom sheet modal, allowing for easy decision-making without overwhelming information.
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For users who prefer to compare options, the “compare” tab consolidates information from multiple places side-by-side, organized according to the user’s preselected filters. This approach enables a single-screen view of choices, rather than navigating between tabs or apps. Once a location is chosen, the app provides a familiar navigation experience, similar to Google or Apple Maps, for directions—an intentional choice to leverage existing user habits for seamless integration.
Upon arrival, the app prompts the user to “check in” to log their visit. When leaving, they’re prompted to “check out,” capturing how long they stayed. These actions can be automated through GPS tracking. After each visit, the user is invited to complete a short survey about their experience, helping improve the app’s recommendations and accuracy through crowd-sourced data, akin to Airbnb’s post-visit reviews. Users can also review locations both internally and externally, though this feature is not shown in the current prototype.
Reflecting on the prototyping process, it has been a valuable journey in refining user flow and minimizing friction, allowing me to thoughtfully address each aspect of the decision-making process.
In testing this prototype, my goal was to assess whether users find the dual search field intuitive, allowing for efficient navigation between location and type-based searches, and if the side-by-side comparison and bottom sheet elements support quick, confident decision-making. Additional focus areas include understanding user engagement with the check-in/check-out features, particularly if automated through GPS, and evaluating how motivated users feel to complete post-visit surveys and feedback, as these elements are essential for refining recommendations. Ultimately, the testing aims to confirm that the app delivers a streamlined, user-friendly experience that aligns with familiar navigation patterns and enhances user satisfaction.
DAY 5 - TESTING
PARTICIPANTS & RECRUITMENT
On the first day of the sprint, I identified and contacted five interviewees who were either freelancers or remote workers, frequently opting to work from public spaces between meetings (about 80% of their time). User testing sessions were scheduled for the fifth day of the sprint. To ensure participation, I confirmed appointments with all five participants on Day 1 and followed up with reminders on Day 3. The participants, aged 40 to 45, included three women and two men. Recruitment was conducted via email, text, and Facebook Messenger, leveraging personal contacts, friends, and acquaintances. All five participants agreed to take part in the usability test.
INTERVIEWING & TESTING EXPERIENCE
The interviews lasted between 25 and 50 minutes, although participants initially agreed to sessions of 15–20 minutes, as they found the topic personally relevant and engaging. Sessions were conducted via Zoom and Google Meet, during which participants shared their screens while interacting with the prototype and provided real-time impressions and feedback. I felt I established strong rapport with the participants, which encouraged them to be candid and critical without hesitation, ensuring rich and actionable insights from the testing experience.
SUMMARY OF INTERVIEW FINDINGS
The research findings highlight user preferences and challenges across five key areas: navigation, search functionality, map interface, feature usage, and feedback mechanisms. Overall, participants found the app intuitive and appreciated its minimalist design, which aligns with popular navigation and search platforms like Google and Apple Maps. However, there is room to improve navigation by adding more “back” buttons and clarifying less intuitive symbols like the “eye” icon. While some users valued detailed filters upfront, others preferred simplicity, suggesting that filters could be introduced later in the flow to reduce cognitive load. Features like the “compare” option and call functionality were well-received, but their utility varied among users, with some defaulting to proximity-based decisions rather than in-depth comparisons.
Participants frequently emphasized the importance of clear communication and context for novel features like check-in/check-out and exit surveys. These elements were not universally understood, with several users recommending motivational prompts and explicit rewards to encourage participation. Visuals, concise labels, and familiar icons emerged as critical design priorities, especially for users who rely heavily on visual decision-making or have limited patience for complex processes. Feedback mechanisms such as sliders and star ratings were seen as effective ways to evaluate experiences, particularly when tied to actionable categories like Wi-Fi quality or noise level. By addressing these pain points and prioritizing simplicity, clarity, and visual hierarchy, the app can better accommodate user needs and enhance engagement across diverse use cases.
CONCLUSION
In reflecting on the app’s positioning, I believe PostUp would be more effective as a feature integrated into an existing platform rather than a standalone app requiring a subscription. This approach would leverage the user base and infrastructure of a larger, established app, making it more accessible to users without the barrier of an additional app installation or subscription fee. Given this perspective, I intentionally omitted a payment screen from the prototype at this stage, focusing instead on refining the core functionality and user experience to demonstrate its value as a complementary feature. This decision allows for flexibility in exploring partnerships or integration opportunities in the future.
Insights from the user testing process revealed several opportunities to refine the app and enhance user experience. If given more time to work on the PostUp prototype, I would likely focus on improving navigation, usability, and engagement as outlined in the following next steps:​​​​​​​​​​
FUTURE STEPS
Enhancing Navigation and Usability
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Add “back” buttons to all screens for smoother navigation and to reduce frustration.
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Redesign unclear icons, like the “eye” symbol for comparison, aligning them with user expectations and adding tooltips or hover actions for clarity.
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Ensure frequently used functions, such as search and compare, are intuitive and easily accessible throughout the user journey.
Streamlining Search and Filter Experience
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Simplify the search interface by consolidating fields into a single, user-friendly search bar for broad or specific queries.
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Introduce filters later in the flow—after initial results are displayed—to reduce cognitive load.
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Prioritize key filters, such as operating hours, noise level, and proximity, while collapsing secondary options into a dropdown menu.
Refining Map and List Interfaces
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Add labels to map markers to differentiate the user’s location from search results.
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Organize search results by distance, clearly communicating this sorting logic to users.
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Improve the pull-up modal’s design to make it more prominent and user-friendly.
Improving Feedback Mechanisms
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Provide clear explanations of check-in and check-out features, emphasizing their community and experience-enhancing benefits.
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Use motivational messaging like “Your opinion helps improve the app for freelancers like you” to encourage survey participation.
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Introduce sliders and star ratings to simplify feedback on attributes like Wi-Fi quality and noise level.
Enhancing Visual Design and Hierarchy
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Use icons and visual cues in filters and navigation to support visually inclined users.
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Adopt a clean, minimalist design emphasizing photos, ratings, and reviews as key decision factors.
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Highlight actions like comparison and feedback submission with visual prompts to improve engagement.
Addressing User Motivations and Behavioral Patterns
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Implement optional incentives, such as gamification or small rewards, to increase feedback participation.​​
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Showcase community benefits to encourage hesitant users to leave reviews and ratings.