Farm Hand

Online Platform for Atlanta Farmers' market

Farmers' markets play a vital role in local food systems, enabling direct sales from producers to consumers and contributing to community food security. Unfortunately, the impact of COVID-19 has posed significant challenges for many Atlanta farmers' markets, necessitating adaptations to navigate this new normal.

At Farm-hand, I am committed to crafting an online platform that benefits both consumers and local farms. I strongly believe in ensuring everyone's access to fresh, locally-sourced food, and that's whyI have designed a platform to connect farmers and consumers, addressing the gap that emerged.

Time frame

March 2022 - June 2022 (10 weeks)

Tools

Figma, Miro, Figma jam, Illustration, Photoshop, Typeform

Project role

Individual Project

Deliverables

Interaction Design: High-fi interactive prototype

UX/UI design: User Research, System design

Brand design: Logo, Package

outcome
Research
Background Context

Atlanta has been contending with the issue of food deserts in recent years. During my time volunteering with SCAD's group, I witnessed the struggles faced by many affected individuals. To combat this problem, the state government has shown robust support for establishing farmer's markets in these food deserts. Consequently, these markets have played a pivotal role in bridging the gap in food resources, particularly in southern Atlanta.


However, the emergence of COVID-19 has presented new hurdles for these markets, affecting indoor access to food and necessitating innovative outdoor solutions that adhere to social distancing guidelines. Despite the city's concerted efforts to enhance food accessibility, disparities persistently impact the underserved areas of Atlanta.


In response,I have devised a solution aimed at fortifying the city's local food system and tackling the ongoing challenges related to food access.

Atlanta has been contending with the issue of food deserts in recent years. During my time volunteering with SCAD's group, I witnessed the struggles faced by many affected individuals. To combat this problem, the state government has shown robust support for establishing farmer's markets in these food deserts. Consequently, these markets have played a pivotal role in bridging the gap in food resources, particularly in southern Atlanta.


However, the emergence of COVID-19 has presented new hurdles for these markets, affecting indoor access to food and necessitating innovative outdoor solutions that adhere to social distancing guidelines. Despite the city's concerted efforts to enhance food accessibility, disparities persistently impact the underserved areas of Atlanta.


In response,I have devised a solution aimed at fortifying the city's local food system and tackling the ongoing challenges related to food access.

Atlanta has been contending with the issue of food deserts in recent years. During my time volunteering with SCAD's group, I witnessed the struggles faced by many affected individuals. To combat this problem, the state government has shown robust support for establishing farmer's markets in these food deserts. Consequently, these markets have played a pivotal role in bridging the gap in food resources, particularly in southern Atlanta.


However, the emergence of COVID-19 has presented new hurdles for these markets, affecting indoor access to food and necessitating innovative outdoor solutions that adhere to social distancing guidelines. Despite the city's concerted efforts to enhance food accessibility, disparities persistently impact the underserved areas of Atlanta.


In response,I have devised a solution aimed at fortifying the city's local food system and tackling the ongoing challenges related to food access.

Problem Overview

Problem

  • Many users struggle to find the information they need on farmers' market websites, making it difficult for them to make informed purchasing decisions.

  • Reviews on existing online platforms are difficult to use and may not be helpful.

  • One of the major reasons people want to use farmers' markets is for the social aspect, which is hard to achieve through an online platform.

Proposed Solutions

  • Improve the design and layout of product pages to make it easier for users to find the information they need.

  • Create more opportunities for social interaction and community building within the online platform.

  • Provide more detailed information about the farmers and producers behind the products, including their stories, farming practices, and sustainability initiatives, to help users make more informed and conscious purchasing decisions.

Research Method

To gain a comprehensive understanding of the target audience and market challenges, I conducted an online survey, individual interviews, and analyzed social media posts.

Interview

By conducting 6 interviews with target audiences and 2 experts interview for identifying their pain points and area of opportunity.

Survey

Gathered 31 participants to gain more understanding of the current problem

Competitive analysis

Not only analysis our direct competitors, but also analysis with multiple vendors who operate online farmers' markets.

Research Highlight

Interview Highlights

Survey Highlights

Research Findings

Problem

  • Many users struggle to find the information they need on farmers' market websites, making it difficult for them to make informed purchasing decisions.

  • Reviews on existing online platforms are difficult to use and may not be helpful.

  • One of the major reasons people want to use farmers' markets is for the social aspect, which is hard to achieve through an online platform.

Proposed Solutions

  • Improve the design and layout of product pages to make it easier for users to find the information they need.

  • Create more opportunities for social interaction and community building within the online platform.

  • Provide more detailed information about the farmers and producers behind the products, including their stories, farming practices, and sustainability initiatives, to help users make more informed and conscious purchasing decisions.

Development
Developing Solutions

With a deeper understanding of users' sentiments regarding potential borrowing and shopping within Farm-hand, I recognized the significance of defining the target audience and crafting the user persona based on these insights. This approach guides my design decisions as we progress through the development process.

Primary

Urban Professionals

and Busy Individuals

lived with kids

Secondary

Health-Conscious Millennials

who has the financial ability

Tertiary

Food Enthusiasts and Culinary Adventurer

Persona & User journey
Research Methods
Low fidelity Wire frame

Based on the frame work I designed,

I moved to wireframe to ensure a flawless user experience.

Final Design
Clarifying Brand Visual identity
Package Design

In my journey map analysis, I recognized a pivotal moment in the customer experience—the point where they receive their package. Understanding the significance of this touchpoint, I aimed to make it special and align it with my app's visual language, which is rooted in authenticity, hand-drawn aesthetics, and heartwarming charm.


To achieve this, I embarked on a unique approach. I created special packages that embodied the authentic essence of our brand. These packages were not merely designed; they were crafted using traditional printmaking techniques. Each package tells a story, carrying the soul of the brand, and enhancing the overall customer experience. It's a testament to my commitment to delivering not just products, but a feeling of genuine connection.

Seasonal

Wrapping paper

Process Pics

Lesson Learned
  1. Research Insights: I learned various research methods during this project, including conducting surveys and interviews. These experiences enhanced my research and engagement skills. For example, conducting interviews with local farmers taught me the value of open-ended questions for gathering detailed insights.


  2. Incorporating Feedback: User feedback, especially the request for an allergy filter, highlighted the significance of continuous design improvement based on user needs. Feedback-driven enhancements, like the allergy filter, significantly improved the user experience.


  3. Holistic Approach: Analyzing the user journey through a journey map revealed that the user experience extends beyond the point of purchase. It led to a holistic approach, where even packaging became an opportunity to reinforce authenticity and the connection between users and local farmers.

© 2023 Rayoun Choi