Application Design II - Task 2: Interaction Design Proposal and Planning

23.10.2024 - 10.11.2024 / Week 05 - Week 07
Tan Zhao Yi / 0363285
Application Design II / Bachelor of Design (Hons) in Creative Media
Task 2: Interaction Design Proposal and Planning



LIST


Task 2: Interaction Design Proposal and Planning




INSTRUCTION




LECTURE

Lecture 3: Micro-Interaction

Micro-Interaction
  • Trigger
    • Initiates the micro-interaction.
    • User-initiated: Clicking, swiping, tapping, or scrolling.
    • System-initiated: Triggered by conditions like custom events, leading to notifications or animations.
  • Rules
    • Determines the action after a trigger.
    • Defines what happens next (e.g., opening an animation, logging out).
    • Must be logical to users (e.g., clicking a flashlight icon turns it on).
  • Feedback
    • Keeps users informed about the process.
    • Example: Inline validation during payment (red for errors, green for success).
  • Loops and Modes
    • Mode: The current setting that remains until changed (e.g., selected project in a time tracker).
    • Loop: Defines how long the interaction continues (e.g., time tracking continues until paused).
Some examples of successful micro-interaction:
1. Checklist Progress Bar
Checklist Progress Bar

2. Password Error Feedback
Password Error Feedback

3. Talana Tooltips
Talana uses UI patterns like tooltips, banners, and modals to communicate with their users.  For example, their contextually triggered tooltips help users discover new features that they might need at a particular moment.
Talana Tooltips

4. Hotspot to help user navigate with the page
Hotspot

5. Main dashboard preloader
It looks like a banner at the bottom of the screen and contains an animation showing the activity is in progress and a message, ‘Hold on tight, you’re almost there!’ to reassure the user.
Micro-interaction examples: Userpilot’s preloader
Main Dashboard Preloader

6. Dynamic Loading Page
Dynamic Loading Page

7. Gamified Animations
Kontentino's Celebretory Modal

8. Lock Screen (sign-in process)
RememBear - signing in

9. Celebratory GIFs
Micro-interaction examples: Mailchimp’s celebratory GIF
Mailchimp’s celebratory GIF

10. System Feedback
The Google Assistant's floating dots provide dynamic visual feedback, indicating the app's status in processing voice commands. When a user says, "Hey, Google," the dots begin to bounce, signifying that the assistant is listening. As the user speaks, these dots transform into animated sound waves, confirming that the assistant is actively processing the input. This real-time visual response enhances user experience by clearly communicating the app's engagement with voice commands.
Micro-interaction examples: Google Assistant floating dots
Google Assistant Floating Dots

11. Tap and Hold effect
Micro-interaction examples: Facebook reaction emojis
Facebook Reaction Emoji

12. Typing...
Micro-interaction examples: HubBot
Bouncing dots that indicates Typing..

13. Mouse-over Effect
Hover Effect

14. Error 404 Page
Dribble - Error 404 Page

Activity
We started our simple animation in Figma. We were introduced to the bouncy preloader, and the modal.
Animating in Figma

Final Outcome in Figma
Lecture 4: GSAP Tutorial
GSAP
GSAP (GreenSock Animation Platform) is a powerful JavaScript library that makes it easy to create animations on websites. Think of it as a toolbox for making things move and change smoothly—like text sliding in, images fading out, or buttons bouncing.

Key Benefits:
  • Smooth animations with simple code.
  • Highly customizable—animate almost anything.
  • Performance-optimized—animations are fast and responsive.
In Week 6, we were given a zip file of HTML and CSS, then we need to add animation on it.
Animation - JavaScript
The animation applied will be:
  • Logo rotating to its place
  • Featured title slides out from left
  • Play and Stop music feature
Initially, many of us struggled to successfully animate the website. However, after several rounds of adjustments and reviews, I discovered that even minor errors could lead to significant issues.


Task 2: Interaction Design Proposal and Planning

We are required to develop a comprehensive interaction design plan for our final web-based mobile application, including detailed wireframes, user flow diagrams, and prototypes of both micro and macro animations. The goal is to visually and conceptually prepare the interaction design and animations that will enhance the user experience of our application. 

Requirements:

Interaction Design Documents:
Create detailed flowcharts and wireframes that map out the user journey and key interaction points within the application. These documents should clearly illustrate the layout of each screen and the navigation structure of the app.

Animation Prototyping:
  • Micro Animations: Prototype small-scale animations that enhance the user's interaction with the application. These might include button effects, hover animations, loading indicators, and feedback messages. Use tools like Figma to create simple animations that demonstrate the intended effects.
  • Macro Animations: Develop concepts for larger-scale animations that significantly affect the user interface, such as transitions between different app states or animated introductions. For complex animations, you may use Adobe After Effects or similar tools to create more detailed prototypes. If actual animation creation is not feasible, you may alternatively provide references to existing animations that closely represent your intended design.
  • Visual and Written ExplanationAccompany your prototypes with a written explanation or a visual presentation that describes how these animations and interactions contribute to the usability and aesthetic of the application. Discuss the purpose behind each animated element and how it integrates into the overall user experience design.

A. Research
In Week 5 class, Mr.Shamsul asked us to find the micro and macro animations that we intended to implement in our final redesigned application. I searched for some interesting existing animations in Dribbles for inspiration.
  • Micro Animations
1. Animated Header
The animated header can serve as a preloader when entering the app. As the logo / header animation progresses, it visually represents the app's loading process, enhancing user experience by providing feedback during loading.
Fig 1.1. Animated Header

2. Animated Submenu Icons
Since I have numerous icons, adding animation would make them more engaging. I plan to animate the icons in the side menu bar and the tick icon in the confirmation message to create a more dynamic experience. Additionally, I will add a hover effect when user clicks on the button.
Fig 1.2. Animated Submenu Icons

3. Transaction History
I can animate an overview of transaction history or spending analysis while user clicked on the button at the first time, then proceed to the detail page if they click twice, or create a button to View Details.
Fig 1.3. Animated Transaction History

4. To-do Interaction
This animation inspired me to redesign my budgeting tools into a to-do list format, as I found the traditional table layout too dull. 
Fig 1.4. Original Budgeting Tools
Now, when users click on items they've paid for, the text will turn gray and be crossed out, providing a more interactive and visually engaging experience.
5. Dashboard
In this animation, the side navigation bar can be collapsed or expanded with an arrow, helping to create a clearer and more organized interface. This feature allows users to adjust the layout for better visibility and ease of use.
Fig 1.6. Collapsed Dashboard

6. Cards Animation
While user scroll through the stacked cards, the cards will expand and allow user to choose which card to view.
Fig 1.7. Credit Card UI Animation
  • Macro-Animation
1. Animated Background and Dissapearing Logo
Upon loading the app, users are directed to the lock screen, where a subtle background animation adds visual interest. The preloader disappears gracefully with a smooth transition animation (as referenced below), creating a seamless entry into the app. This combination of animations not only enhances the app’s visual appeal but also provides a polished, dynamic user experience.
Fig 1.8. ATIRA: Animation

2. Preloader
This reference inspired me to incorporate a full-screen animation to keep users engaged while waiting for content to load. By adding subtle, dynamic visuals, I aimed to reduce the perception of waiting time and prevent users from feeling bored, creating a more immersive and enjoyable experience during transitions.
Fig 1.9. Reading App Animation

3. Loading Components
For screens with multiple components, I plan to implement dynamic loading animations to enhance the user experience. These animations will provide visual feedback during content loading, helping users understand that the app is actively processing their requests. 
Fig 1.10. Figma Loading Motion - UI Design
B. App Flow Map
After the consultation of Task 1, I will continue working on the redesigned screens only, which is:
  • Login
  • Home
  • Notifications
  • Side Navigation Bar
  • Transfer
  • Accounts
An app flow map visually organizes and outlines the user’s journey through the app, starting from main entry points like the login screen and branching into core sections, such as Notifications, Account Management, and Fund Transfer. It provides a clear sequence for each path, showing how users navigate from one feature to another with actions like taps or slides. 
By mapping these flows, I can identify and optimize navigation paths to ensure a smooth, intuitive experience, minimizing unnecessary steps and aligning with the app’s goal of providing logical, accessible functionality. This blueprint helps in creating a cohesive design that aligns with both user needs and brand objectives.

Fig 2.1. App Flow Map
C. Lockscreen > Login
Fig 3.1. Lockscreen > Login
  • Micro-animation
Fig 2.1. shows the newest redesigned version of lock screen and log in screen. My plan is to create a animated Public Bank logo as the app preloader
Fig 3.2. Public Bank Logo
After the app is being loaded, the logo will disappear in the reverse style of it was created. The user will be directed to the lockscreen, allowing them to choose their preferred method to log in, which is Face ID or entering their phone number and password.
On the lock screen, the gradient background will feature animated color transitions.
Fig 3.4. Gradient Animation
  • Macro-Animation
The log in container will slide up once they click on the Log in button.
Fig 3.5. Log In Page Animation
D. Home
Fig 4.1. Home
  • Micro-Animation
On the Home Screen, the Transfer section will be designed as a carousel, enabling users to scroll through their list of recipients seamlessly until they find the desired contact. While developing this animation, I chose to keep the "Transfer" label and the scan icon fixed at the top, ensuring that these elements remain accessible and visually stable. This setup allows for smoother navigation and maintains a consistent user experience by making essential functions easy to find and interact with, even while scrolling through multiple recipients.
Fig 4.2. Carousel Scrolling
The "+" button will feature a hover effect to enhance interactivity and visual feedback for users. When users hover over the button, it will subtly change color, signaling that it’s clickable. This effect draws attention to the button, making it more intuitive and encouraging user engagement with the feature.
Fig 4.3. "+" Button Hover Effect
E. Notifications
Fig 5.1. Redesigned Notifications
  • Micro-Animation
Initially I wanted to add an animation of the red line sliding to label of each screen, but I couldn't achive that through Figma. I will try it while using Adobe Dreamveaver, but as a back up plan, I will be using the dissolve effect for the label animation.
Fig 5.2. Hover and Dissolve Effect
  • Macro-Animation
On the home page, when the user clicks the notification button positioned on the left side, the notification screen smoothly slides in from the left, aligning with the button's location. This transition offers a natural, visually intuitive flow that directs the user’s focus toward new notifications. Similarly, when the user chooses to exit the notification screen, the page will slide back to the right, returning to the main home page. This sliding effect provides a sense of spatial orientation as users navigate between screens.
Fig 5.3. Notifications Screen Slides In
F. Side Navigation Bar
Fig 6.1. Redesigned Side Navigation Bar
Originally, I planned to include a micro-animation similar to those in Fig 1.6 and 6.2. However, I realized these animations don’t translate well to mobile app design, as users can’t hover with a cursor on mobile devices.
Side Menu Design
Fig 6.2. Side Menu Design
  • Macro-Animations
The transition works similarly to the notification screens: since the hamburger icon is on the left, the menu slides in from the left as well. Users can click anywhere outside the menu to close it, allowing for a quick and intuitive way to exit. Else, they can click on the back button to exit.
Fig 6.3. Side navigation bar slides in from left
G. Accounts
Fig 7.1. Redesigned Accounts
  • Micro-Animation
This section includes minimal micro-animations, but the buttons displayed on the screen incorporate a hover effect. This effect provides a subtle, interactive response when users tap or hover over each button, creating a more engaging and responsive experience.
  • Macro-Animation
The animation in this section highlights the account card after users select the one they wish to view. Upon tapping, the card lifts slightly, providing a subtle 3D effect. Users can then flip the card to reveal detailed information, such as the CCV, expiration date, and other key details, enhancing the interactive and engaging feel of the experience.
Fig 7.2. Flipping Card
H. Transfer
Fig 8.1. Redesigned Fund Transfer
  • Micro-Animation
I plan to animate the red gift box in the confirmation message, but the final animation will depend on how the visual effect looks once I complete the animation process. This will help determine whether the animation enhances the overall user experience or needs further adjustments.
Fig 8.2. Intended Gift Box Animation
  • Macro-Animation
Since the process involves transferring funds, after the user clicks on the button to proceed, the page will smoothly slide to the left. This transition visually indicates that the user is moving to the next step in the process, providing a clear and intuitive flow as they continue with the fund transfer.
When the user fills out the text box, the drop shadow effect will temporarily disappear. Once the user finishes entering the information, the drop shadow effect will reappear, providing a visual cue that the text box has been completed. 
Fig 8.3. Micro and Macro Animations of Fund Transfer section

As mentioned in Figure 1.9, I plan to incorporate an engaging animation that will display while users wait for their fund transfers to be processed. As the transaction processes, animated coins will fall gradually, filling up the screen. When the screen is completely filled with coins, it indicates that the transaction has finished loading. This animation is designed to enhance the user experience by providing visual feedback during the transfer process, making the waiting period feel shorter and more interactive. 
I. Masterplan
The masterplan will encompass a range of animations, including both micro and macro elements. Micro animations will focus on subtle, detail-oriented movements that enhance user interactions, such as button presses, hover effects, and transitions, creating a smoother and more intuitive experience. Macro animations, on the other hand, will involve larger, more noticeable animations that guide users through the app or emphasize important features, like page transitions, loading sequences, and interactive storytelling elements. Together, these animations will work to create a cohesive and engaging experience, balancing functional feedback with immersive visual appeal.

 
Fig 9.1. Masterplan

Final Task 2: Interaction Design Proposal and Planning
Fig 10.1. Final Task 2: Interaction Design Proposal and Planning - Slides

Fig 10.2. Final Task 2: Interaction Design Proposal and Planning - Presentation Video


REFLECTION

Experience
At first, balancing subtle animations with larger, attention-grabbing ones felt challenging. I learned that while micro animations, like button hovers, enhance user engagement by guiding actions, macro animations need to stay smooth and not overwhelm the user. This process helped me understand how animations contribute to a cohesive design, making the app feel more interactive and friendly.

Observations
I noticed that micro animations, such as hover effects or sliding lines, make the app feel more alive without distracting the user. These small touches give users feedback and make navigation feel intuitive. On the other hand, macro animations, like carousels or page transitions, have a more noticeable impact on the experience. They need to be thoughtfully timed and paced to keep users engaged without creating visual clutter. Observing these effects helped me see how both animation types work together to improve the overall user journey.

Findings
Through this project, I found that animations, whether small or large, play a crucial role in enhancing usability and aesthetics. Micro animations add polish, making interactions feel smoother and more responsive, while macro animations guide users through the app’s main actions in an enjoyable way. I also discovered that too much animation can overwhelm users, so striking the right balance is essential for creating a pleasant, effective design. These insights will be useful for future projects where engaging user experience is a priority.

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