Pink* at Confluence

At the Whiteboard

3:00p - 4:00p

Next step, understand the research.

We transferred each bit of data from our directed storytelling sessions to sticky notes, then arranged and rearranged them at the whiteboard using several conceptual models, each yielding a unique set of insights.

Arranging the data according to the academic timeline of an undergraduate student revealed that Confluence and the job search become salient their junior year. It’s at that point we see a need for job experience on their resumé, a portfolio that showcases unique projects, and the ability to speak confidently with prospective employers. Conversely, we see a lack of salience prior to their junior year, a period of time that could be leveraged to fulfill those needs.

Rearranging the data according to relationships and the four orders of design, we uncovered four distinct potential focus areas:

a) redesigning the Career Center resources to support the specific needs of students applying for design-related opportunities;

b) redesigning aspects of Confluence to optimize the experience for designers with regard to their specific set of needs and expectations;

c) designing a service that supports and enables peer-to-peer collaboration, such as resumé and portfolio design, peer reviews, and critiques; and,

d) designing a service that connects students with employers, alumni, and university resources to support them in their job search.

We considered the suggestions and feedback from people passing by our booth, but despite their overwhelming desire for us to redesign aspects of Confluence and Career Center resources, we decided it would be best to focus on the creation of a new service.

Photos from our stationary camera.