Learn digital design tools collaboratively.
Lead Product Designer
2024
EdTech / SaaS
Product Strategy • UX Research
Overview
Synthink is a web platform designed to boost software skills by connecting peers and experts in a dynamic space for remote learning.
The Challenge
Improving skills takes time and effort. Even with plenty of online resources, going through the process alone makes it hard to stay on track.
The Goal
To empower individuals by fostering a collaborative and supportive online environment where peer-driven feedback bridges the gap between passive learning and mastery.
Research Insights
Generic methods fail most users; motivation peaks when solving problems in groups with expert guidance.
Blend guided tutorials with social features—feedback, advice, and collaboration all in one place.
Discovery
The Realization
During my Bachelor's, I noticed in a 3D modeling course that everyone struggled much more when working alone than when we collaborated. This spark led to a deep dive into pedagogical theories like Lev Vygotsky's Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD).
Needs Assistance
Tutorials are step-by-step, but real learning needs human feedback on implementation.
Multiple Software Use
Users juggle multiple tools; the platform needs to handle specialized utility switches.
Collaborative Motivation
Group projects complement shortcomings and lead to significantly stronger outcomes.
Generic Fatigue
Course popularity is decreasing; users want bite-sized, interactive peer engagement.
Empathize
Understanding the Archetypes
I developed two distinct personas—Isak (The Learner) and Björn (The Expert)—to shape the environment. One seeks community and constant feedback, while the other thrives on sharing passion and building social mentorship.
The Outcome
A high-fidelity platform focused on peer connectivity, real-time feedback, and bite-sized learning modules.
Intelligent Search & Suggest
Browse design tools with smart filters and quick-access chips. Users get immediate suggestions based on their skills and learning goals.
Peer Sessions
Real-time collaboration sessions where learners can join task-specific groups, see participant levels, and receive expert rating overlays on their work.
Skill Tracking
A comprehensive dashboard summarizing tracked skills, followed courses, and past collaborative sessions to maintain a clear growth trajectory.
Design Decisions
Refining Interactions
Enhanced suggestion chips and reordered primary CTAs based on tester behavior to boost clarity and confidence.
Bento Session View
Replaced cluttered lists with a compact grid layout with hover details to reduce overwhelm in session tracking.
Reflection
Guided learning works best when paired with community and authentic feedback.
Synthink pushed me to focus on designing for real human needs rather than just feature lists. I learned that social learning isn't just about "chatting"—it's about finding a path that matches a user's specific pace, style, and goals.
Iteration was key. Usability testing surfaced friction in how users approach collaboration, forcing me to rethink interaction details like button hierarchy and compact session views. Design systems were the backbone that kept it all consistent.