Unisol
Unisol
Unisol
An online guidance system for all UK universities, enabling students to assess academic institutions based on their background and future prospects, while concurrently facilitating universities and affiliated entities to carry out transactions.
An online guidance system for all UK universities, enabling students to assess academic institutions based on their background and future prospects, while concurrently facilitating universities and affiliated entities to carry out transactions.
An online guidance system for all UK universities, enabling students to assess academic institutions based on their background and future prospects, while concurrently facilitating universities and affiliated entities to carry out transactions.
Position - UI/UX
Length - 8 Weeks
Methodology - Stanford D
Position - UI/UX
Length - 8 Weeks
Methodology - Stanford D
Position - UI/UX
Length - 8 Weeks
Methodology - Stanford D
0.1 Overview
After the United States, international students choose to study in the United Kingdom. In higher education during the academic year 2020–2021, around 6,05,130 foreign students were enrolled (HESA,2021). One-third of all university tuition in the UK is paid by international students. As a result, this was viewed as a chance for a new start-up business whose core competencies revolve around the delivery of online counselling services that can replace the role of in-person counselling
0.1 Overview
This study demonstrates the steps involved in conducting research to create a beneficial application that integrates the findings. It has been noticed that e-commerce is flourishing in the UK, but the construction industry is not performing as well as other business sectors. This was considered an opportunity to develop the marketplace for the construction industry.
0.1 Overview
After the United States, international students choose to study in the United Kingdom. In higher education during the academic year 2020–2021, around 6,05,130 foreign students were enrolled (HESA,2021). One-third of all university tuition in the UK is paid by international students. As a result, this was viewed as a chance for a new start-up business whose core competencies revolve around the delivery of online counselling services that can replace the role of in-person counselling
0.2 Challenges
What Challenges students face while applying to abroad universities? (Pasolea, 2022)
• Checking institutions
• Entrance requirements
• Sources of funding
• Language Course
• Scholarships• Living Expenses
• Job opportunities
• Visa
• Part-time Jobs availability
• When/How to apply?
• After getting the offer letter
• Accommodation Availability
0.2 Challenges
What Challenges students face while applying to abroad universities? (Pasolea, 2022)
• Checking institutions
• Entrance requirements
• Sources of funding
• Language Course
• Scholarships• Living Expenses
• Job opportunities
• Visa
• Part-time Jobs availability
• When/How to apply?
• After getting the offer letter
• Accommodation Availability
0.2 Challenges
What Challenges students face while applying to abroad universities? (Pasolea, 2022)
• Checking institutions
• Entrance requirements
• Sources of funding
• Language Course
• Scholarships• Living Expenses
• Job opportunities
• Visa
• Part-time Jobs availability
• When/How to apply?
• After getting the offer letter
• Accommodation Availability
0.3 Current Method
Limitations
UK agent as middleman
Communication Gap
Limited reach
Manpower
Biased suggestions
Paid Services
0.3 Current Method
Limitations
UK agent as middleman
Communication Gap
Limited reach
Manpower
Biased suggestions
Paid Services
0.3 Current Method
Limitations
UK agent as middleman
Communication Gap
Limited reach
Manpower
Biased suggestions
Paid Services
0.4 Problem Statement
People, whether native or non-native to the UK, encounter challenges in selecting and contrasting their preferred universities from a distance, depending on their prior experiences, using a single platform.
0.4 Problem Statement
People, whether native or non-native to the UK, encounter challenges in selecting and contrasting their preferred universities from a distance, depending on their prior experiences, using a single platform.
0.4 Problem Statement
People, whether native or non-native to the UK, encounter challenges in selecting and contrasting their preferred universities from a distance, depending on their prior experiences, using a single platform.
0.5 My Approach
The application may serve as a conduit between international students and their preferred university. The conceptual framework considers each agency that contributes to the economics of the current system. The Stakeholder Ecosystem, depicted in the figure below, shows how different stakeholders will utilize the app. The proposed application can be predicted to use by students, their parents, and the university. Third-party organisations may use this application to do business.
0.5 My Approach
The application may serve as a conduit between international students and their preferred university. The conceptual framework considers each agency that contributes to the economics of the current system. The Stakeholder Ecosystem, depicted in the figure below, shows how different stakeholders will utilize the app. The proposed application can be predicted to use by students, their parents, and the university. Third-party organisations may use this application to do business.
0.5 My Approach
The application may serve as a conduit between international students and their preferred university. The conceptual framework considers each agency that contributes to the economics of the current system. The Stakeholder Ecosystem, depicted in the figure below, shows how different stakeholders will utilize the app. The proposed application can be predicted to use by students, their parents, and the university. Third-party organisations may use this application to do business.
0.6 Design Process
Stanford d design approach was considered for the project. After the usability test, Assess/Review stage is implemented in the process to determine the strengths and challenges of the application.
0.6 Design Process
Stanford d design approach was considered for the project. After the usability test, Assess/Review stage is implemented in the process to determine the strengths and challenges of the application.
0.6 Design Process
The three phases of the lean UX process considered are as follows:
1. Think
2. Make
3. Check
Empathize
0.7 Surveys
A survey was carried out to collect quantitative data for the interview questions. Three phases were used to organise the 15 survey's questions.
1. Before applying
2. While applying
3.After Applying
Key Findings
With the aid of the survey, a simple user flow was created.
The application requirements and the capabilities of the existing counselling or enrolling system were identified. In addition to enrolment, the hardest aspect for students is finding accommodation.
Candidates need a single portal with the entire enrolment process and prefer both types of interfaces
Empathize
0.7 Surveys
A survey was carried out to collect quantitative data for the interview questions. Three phases were used to organise the 15 survey's questions.
1. Before applying
2. While applying
3.After Applying
Key Findings
With the aid of the survey, a simple user flow was created.
The application requirements and the capabilities of the existing counselling or enrolling system were identified. In addition to enrolment, the hardest aspect for students is finding accommodation.
Candidates need a single portal with the entire enrolment process and prefer both types of interfaces
Empathize
0.7 Surveys
A survey was carried out to collect quantitative data for the interview questions. Three phases were used to organise the 15 survey's questions.
1. Before applying
2. While applying
3.After Applying
Key Findings
With the aid of the survey, a simple user flow was created.
The application requirements and the capabilities of the existing counselling or enrolling system were identified. In addition to enrolment, the hardest aspect for students is finding accommodation.
Candidates need a single portal with the entire enrolment process and prefer both types of interfaces
0.8 Interviews
The researcher conducted the first pilot interview, and the second pilot interview was noted as the first interview, which was conducted by the participants themselves. The interviews were conducted remotely on Microsoft Teams for each participant.
Students were asked questions in the following order:
1. Before Applying
2. During Applying
3. After Applying
Counsellors was asked questions in the following order:
1. Business Plan
2. Expertise
3. Global expansion
4. Pain Points
0.8 Interviews
The researcher conducted the first pilot interview, and the second pilot interview was noted as the first interview, which was conducted by the participants themselves. The interviews were conducted remotely on Microsoft Teams for each participant.
Students were asked questions in the following order:
1. Before Applying
2. During Applying
3. After Applying
Counsellors was asked questions in the following order:
1. Business Plan
2. Expertise
3. Global expansion
4. Pain Points
0.8 Interviews
The researcher conducted the first pilot interview, and the second pilot interview was noted as the first interview, which was conducted by the participants themselves. The interviews were conducted remotely on Microsoft Teams for each participant.
Students were asked questions in the following order:
1. Before Applying
2. During Applying
3. After Applying
Counsellors was asked questions in the following order:
1. Business Plan
2. Expertise
3. Global expansion
4. Pain Points
Key Findings
5/8 participants want a mobile app that lets them compare institutions online based on their preferences.
6/8 participants are hesitant to pay the fees before understanding modules and discussing them with alumni.
4/8 participants said they don't want to waste any more time talking and studying.
7/8 participants want accommodations in the suggested app.
6/8 of participants believe AI recommendations are a useful and intriguing service for both the applicant and students who are unsure about their career paths.
Key Findings
5/8 participants want a mobile app that lets them compare institutions online based on their preferences.
6/8 participants are hesitant to pay the fees before understanding modules and discussing them with alumni.
4/8 participants said they don't want to waste any more time talking and studying.
7/8 participants want accommodations in the suggested app.
6/8 of participants believe AI recommendations are a useful and intriguing service for both the applicant and students who are unsure about their career paths.
Key Findings
⦁ 4/6 participants desire an app that allows them to look up building supplies and find out where they can be found.
⦁ 5/6 participants are hesitant to pay the seller money before viewing the item in person.
⦁ 3/6 participants don't want to waste any more time negotiating.
⦁ 4/6 participants desire aspects like finance in the proposed app.
⦁ 5/6 participants think of bidding as an interesting and beneficial service for the application.
0.9 Affinity Diagram
The interviews produced a variety of perspectives based on the participants professional perspectives. Information regarding a user method, an application, and complex challenges were organised and condensed using the affinity map and themes.
0.9 Affinity Diagram
The interviews produced a variety of perspectives based on the participants professional perspectives. Information regarding a user method, an application, and complex challenges were organised and condensed using the affinity map and themes.
0.9 Affinity Diagram
The interviews produced a variety of perspectives based on the participants professional perspectives. Information regarding a user method, an application, and complex challenges were organised and condensed using the affinity map and themes.
Define
10. Empathy Mapping
The mapping helped to combine interview results about user requirements. Personas and concept deliverables are connected by mapping. Two user personas were created, one representing a student and the other a counsellor
Define
10. Empathy Mapping
The mapping approach assisted in synthesising interview findings concerning a user's requirements. Mapping created a bridge between personas and concept deliverables. One user persona was identified as a buyer, and the other was characterised as a seller.
Define
10. Empathy Mapping
The mapping approach assisted in synthesising interview findings concerning a user's requirements. Mapping created a bridge between personas and concept deliverables. One user persona was identified as a buyer, and the other was characterised as a seller.
11. Persona
Based on the Empathy Mapping personas were created.
Persona 1 (Student) - The persona described is that of a vendor that wantsThe first persona is a student with a bachelor's in architecture. This persona, known as a student, was created using the information gathered through interviews with prospective university students and current students.
Persona 2 (Counsellor) - The start-up company's CEO, who helps students with enrolment and career assistance, is represented by the persona displayed below. He wants to take his start-up global and create an app that would digitise traditional counselling.
11. Persona
Based on the Empathy Mapping personas were created.
Persona 1 (Student) - The persona described is that of a vendor that wantsThe first persona is a student with a bachelor's in architecture. This persona, known as a student, was created using the information gathered through interviews with prospective university students and current students.
Persona 2 (Counsellor) - The start-up company's CEO, who helps students with enrolment and career assistance, is represented by the persona displayed below. He wants to take his start-up global and create an app that would digitise traditional counselling.
11. Persona
Based on the Empathy Mapping personas were created.
Persona 1 (Student) - The persona described is that of a vendor that wantsThe first persona is a student with a bachelor's in architecture. This persona, known as a student, was created using the information gathered through interviews with prospective university students and current students.
Persona 2 (Counsellor) - The start-up company's CEO, who helps students with enrolment and career assistance, is represented by the persona displayed below. He wants to take his start-up global and create an app that would digitise traditional counselling.
Customer Journey Map
Customer journey maps are used to show the relationship between a student, university, required agencies and a counsellor through time and across all the channels they use to communicate with one another.
Key Findings-
Possible opportunities created-
Use of technology like AI for course suggestion. Compare all Universities in United Kingdom on a single platform.
Help with the experts for course guidance. Forum to connect with alumni and make groups with same interest.
Self-check eligibility.
Find suitable Option for deadline.
One portal for every solution from admission to accommodation.
Auto generated message.
Visa Help
Customer Journey Map
Customer journey maps are used to show the relationship between a student, university, required agencies and a counsellor through time and across all the channels they use to communicate with one another.
Key Findings-
Possible opportunities created-
Use of technology like AI for course suggestion. Compare all Universities in United Kingdom on a single platform.
Help with the experts for course guidance. Forum to connect with alumni and make groups with same interest.
Self-check eligibility.
Find suitable Option for deadline.
One portal for every solution from admission to accommodation.
Auto generated message.
Visa Help
12.0Customer Journey Map
Customer journey maps are used to depict the challenges that a customer may encounter while purchasing a product, as well as the obstacles that a vendor may have while attempting to sell his products online.
Key Findings-
Possible opportunities created-
⦁ Locate the vendors according to the ratings.
⦁ Explore the materials library.
⦁ Enter Budget
⦁ Services Provided and Biding Options
⦁ Request for credits
⦁ Subscription charges to lower down fake vendors.
⦁ Easy flow to upload and promote a product.
⦁ Auto-generated message to lower time consumption.
⦁ Filter according to the type of customer to identify genuine customers.
13.0POV
To concentrate on users, insights, which were discovered in the empathise stage, the Point of View statement was used to give direction to specific assumptions. The needs and insights of the student and counsellor from the POV statement needs, and insights of student and counsellor is shown in below figure, where the needs are obtained from the narrative scenario and CJM..
13.0POV
To concentrate on users, insights, which were discovered in the empathise stage, the Point of View statement was used to give direction to specific assumptions. The needs and insights of the student and counsellor from the POV statement needs, and insights of student and counsellor is shown in below figure, where the needs are obtained from the narrative scenario and CJM..
13.0POV
To concentrate on users, insights, which were discovered in the empathise stage, the Point of View statement was used to give direction to specific assumptions. The needs and insights of the student and counsellor from the POV statement needs, and insights of student and counsellor is shown in below figure, where the needs are obtained from the narrative scenario and CJM..
14.0Ideation
Throughout this stage, remedies to the problems and requirements were created. The below mentioned techniques were carried out in Ideation phase.
How Might We
Rapid Idea Generation
4W's
Brain Writing
Crazy 8
NUF test
14.0Ideation
Throughout this stage, remedies to the problems and requirements were created. The below mentioned techniques were carried out in Ideation phase.
How Might We
Rapid Idea Generation
4W's
Brain Writing
Crazy 8
NUF test
14.0Ideation
Throughout this stage, remedies to the problems and requirements were created. The below mentioned techniques were carried out in Ideation phase.
How Might We
Rapid Idea Generation
4W's
Brain Writing
Crazy 8
NUF test
15.0Competitive Analysis
The competitive analysis was carried out to gain a better grasp of the existing market and to spot new opportunities.
Key Findings
Business Model -Every programme under study, both B2C and B2B, relies on users as well as outside sources and serves as a middleman.
Problems- University comparison, user flow, university information and ideas, feeling lost on the website, and the lack of direct counselling.
Opportunities - To create an application with an integrated portal connecting all necessary organisations directly or indirectly connected to university processes.
Strengths- University comparison, Accommodation services, and coaching for courses.
Some distinctive aspects that can be included are:
1. University Comparison –Go to University.
2. news update – Uni Compare.
3. Chatbots - QSWUR
4. Accommodation - Uni compare
5. Webinars - Go to university
6. Finance – Uni Compare
15.0Competitive Analysis
The competitive analysis was carried out to gain a better grasp of the existing market and to spot new opportunities.
Key Findings
Business Model -Every programme under study, both B2C and B2B, relies on users as well as outside sources and serves as a middleman.
Problems- University comparison, user flow, university information and ideas, feeling lost on the website, and the lack of direct counselling.
Opportunities - To create an application with an integrated portal connecting all necessary organisations directly or indirectly connected to university processes.
Strengths- University comparison, Accommodation services, and coaching for courses.
Some distinctive aspects that can be included are:
1. University Comparison –Go to University.
2. news update – Uni Compare.
3. Chatbots - QSWUR
4. Accommodation - Uni compare
5. Webinars - Go to university
6. Finance – Uni Compare
15.0Competitive Analysis
The competitive analysis was carried out to gain a better grasp of the existing market and to spot new opportunities.
Key Findings
Business Model -Every programme under study, both B2C and B2B, relies on users as well as outside sources and serves as a middleman.
Problems- University comparison, user flow, university information and ideas, feeling lost on the website, and the lack of direct counselling.
Opportunities - To create an application with an integrated portal connecting all necessary organisations directly or indirectly connected to university processes.
Strengths- University comparison, Accommodation services, and coaching for courses.
Some distinctive aspects that can be included are:
1. University Comparison –Go to University.
2. news update – Uni Compare.
3. Chatbots - QSWUR
4. Accommodation - Uni compare
5. Webinars - Go to university
6. Finance – Uni Compare
18.0Imformation Architecture
Considering the testing results and findings from the design process large amount of information was divided into small portions with labels and stages so that it could be quickly accessible and used effectively. The information Architecture shown below is shown for three interfaces.
1. Student
2. Counsellor
3. University
16.0Business Plan
Following the design phase, it became apparent that integrating and granting access to several agencies with various professional backgrounds could create complications in the application. The findings of the design process and interviews indicate that the primary users valued the availability of secondary services. Instead of granting access to services like VISA, accommodation, and language classes that might be related to the business, it was considered crucial to advertise their company link instead. When students sign up for their services, the company can make a profit on a commission basis.
16.0Business Plan
Following the design phase, it became apparent that integrating and granting access to several agencies with various professional backgrounds could create complications in the application. The findings of the design process and interviews indicate that the primary users valued the availability of secondary services. Instead of granting access to services like VISA, accommodation, and language classes that might be related to the business, it was considered crucial to advertise their company link instead. When students sign up for their services, the company can make a profit on a commission basis.
16.0Business Plan
Following the design phase, it became apparent that integrating and granting access to several agencies with various professional backgrounds could create complications in the application. The findings of the design process and interviews indicate that the primary users valued the availability of secondary services. Instead of granting access to services like VISA, accommodation, and language classes that might be related to the business, it was considered crucial to advertise their company link instead. When students sign up for their services, the company can make a profit on a commission basis.
17.0Prototype
This phase incorporated the ideas from the Crazy 8 phase to provide a quick and simple method for turning abstract design thoughts into real-world, testable artefacts. Before creating the paper prototype screens, the basic site map was made to gain an idea of how the application's user flow should be.
Following three interfaces were thought of
1. Student Login (Users can access all the universities and upload/download documents)
2. University Login (Users can revert to applied students)
3. Counsellor Login (Users can use platform for business)
17.0Prototype
This phase incorporated the ideas from the Crazy 8 phase to provide a quick and simple method for turning abstract design thoughts into real-world, testable artefacts. Before creating the paper prototype screens, the basic site map was made to gain an idea of how the application's user flow should be.
Following three interfaces were thought of
1. Student Login (Users can access all the universities and upload/download documents)
2. University Login (Users can revert to applied students)
3. Counsellor Login (Users can use platform for business)
17.0Prototype
This phase incorporated the ideas from the Crazy 8 phase to provide a quick and simple method for turning abstract design thoughts into real-world, testable artefacts. Before creating the paper prototype screens, the basic site map was made to gain an idea of how the application's user flow should be.
Following three interfaces were thought of
1. Student Login (Users can access all the universities and upload/download documents)
2. University Login (Users can revert to applied students)
3. Counsellor Login (Users can use platform for business)
18.0Information Architecture
Considering the testing results and findings from the design process large amount of information was divided into small portions with labels and stages so that it could be quickly accessible and used effectively. The information Architecture shown below is shown for three interfaces.
1. Student
2. Counsellor
3. University
19.0Final Screens
19.0Final Screens
20.0Testing
For Testing the tasks were based on
For Student
1. Browsing webinars and accommodation.
2. Completing enrolment process from searching to uploading of documents.
3. Tracking the application.
4. Communicating with the counsellor.
For Counsellor
1. Tracking student application.
2. Communicating with student
For University Representative
1. Tracking student application.
2. Editing the displayed information.
Key Findings
1 out of 8 had problems while editing the fee structure.
Solution- Save button was provided after editing.
2 out 8 got confused while finding alternative to the course.
Solution- The alternative labels were added to the universities screen.
1 out 8 suggest increasing the text size of the comparison screen.
Solution- This was incorporated.
1 out of 8 participants have a problem while adding universities to compare.
Solution- By providing buttons to add and then compare universities.
20.0Testing
For Testing the tasks were based on
For Student
1. Browsing webinars and accommodation.
2. Completing enrolment process from searching to uploading of documents.
3. Tracking the application.
4. Communicating with the counsellor.
For Counsellor
1. Tracking student application.
2. Communicating with student
For University Representative
1. Tracking student application.
2. Editing the displayed information.
Key Findings
1 out of 8 had problems while editing the fee structure.
Solution- Save button was provided after editing.
2 out 8 got confused while finding alternative to the course.
Solution- The alternative labels were added to the universities screen.
1 out 8 suggest increasing the text size of the comparison screen.
Solution- This was incorporated.
1 out of 8 participants have a problem while adding universities to compare.
Solution- By providing buttons to add and then compare universities.
21.0Discussion
Strength
Based on the user's preferences, a platform enables an effective application process and easy access to any university. To increase income and discover the simplest way to consult and monitor student applications, part-time counsellors may find it helpful to use a platform. One of the factors contributing to Unisol's success may be reviewing and comparing choices for UK institutions based on each requirement needed by an international student. To reach numerous students, new universities may run advertisements and host webinars.
Future Work
Since the entire globe is turning digital, it can be said that this industry has enormous potential. Artificial intelligence and virtual reality can be used to improve the user experience. According to the interview and study, the application was exclusively meant for students and counsellors. However, the idea of a university login developed during the interview could be advantageous for all the primary users. With more qualitative data from enrolment teams or university representatives, the application can be strengthened.
The mobile version and university dashboard are only intended to provide an overview of the application and the development of the full version can be the primary future work. More user testing with stakeholders could enhance categories, eliminate features that aren't useful, and speed up the process by adding a step that, from the perspective of the university representative.
15.0Final Screens
18.0Information Architecture
Considering the testing results and findings from the design process large amount of information was divided into small portions with labels and stages so that it could be quickly accessible and used effectively. The information Architecture shown below is shown for three interfaces.
1. Student
2. Counsellor
3. University
21.0Review and Implementation
Strength
Based on the user's preferences, a platform enables an effective application process and easy access to any university. To increase income and discover the simplest way to consult and monitor student applications, part-time counsellors may find it helpful to use a platform. One of the factors contributing to Unisol's success may be reviewing and comparing choices for UK institutions based on each requirement needed by an international student. To reach numerous students, new universities may run advertisements and host webinars.
Future Work
Since the entire globe is turning digital, it can be said that this industry has enormous potential. Artificial intelligence and virtual reality can be used to improve the user experience. According to the interview and study, the application was exclusively meant for students and counsellors. However, the idea of a university login developed during the interview could be advantageous for all the primary users. With more qualitative data from enrolment teams or university representatives, the application can be strengthened.
The mobile version and university dashboard are only intended to provide an overview of the application and the development of the full version can be the primary future work. More user testing with stakeholders could enhance categories, eliminate features that aren't useful, and speed up the process by adding a step that, from the perspective of the university representative.
20.0Testing
For Testing the tasks were based on
For Student
1. Browsing webinars and accommodation.
2. Completing enrolment process from searching to uploading of documents.
3. Tracking the application.
4. Communicating with the counsellor.
For Counsellor
1. Tracking student application.
2. Communicating with student
For University Representative
1. Tracking student application.
2. Editing the displayed information.
Key Findings
1 out of 8 had problems while editing the fee structure.
Solution- Save button was provided after editing.
2 out 8 got confused while finding alternative to the course.
Solution- The alternative labels were added to the universities screen.
1 out 8 suggest increasing the text size of the comparison screen.
Solution- This was incorporated.
1 out of 8 participants have a problem while adding universities to compare.
Solution- By providing buttons to add and then compare universities.
21.0Discussion
Strength
Based on the user's preferences, a platform enables an effective application process and easy access to any university. To increase income and discover the simplest way to consult and monitor student applications, part-time counsellors may find it helpful to use a platform. One of the factors contributing to Unisol's success may be reviewing and comparing choices for UK institutions based on each requirement needed by an international student. To reach numerous students, new universities may run advertisements and host webinars.
Future Work
Since the entire globe is turning digital, it can be said that this industry has enormous potential. Artificial intelligence and virtual reality can be used to improve the user experience. According to the interview and study, the application was exclusively meant for students and counsellors. However, the idea of a university login developed during the interview could be advantageous for all the primary users. With more qualitative data from enrolment teams or university representatives, the application can be strengthened.
The mobile version and university dashboard are only intended to provide an overview of the application and the development of the full version can be the primary future work. More user testing with stakeholders could enhance categories, eliminate features that aren't useful, and speed up the process by adding a step that, from the perspective of the university representative.
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