Front-loading auto-fill information input on a job search application
Improving Indeed’s auto-fill application process to allow users to input their application information during account creation
Scope of Project
Company: General Assembly
Role: UX Researcher & UX Designer
Timespan: 2 weeks
Team Location: Remote
Prompt: I was tasked to create a new feature for an existing job-search app in order to address a user-driven frustration. Utilizing the Double-Diamond design process to facilitate design by gathering real-world research, I decided to address user pain-points within Indeed’s auto-fill application system.
Process
I worked with three additional user researchers to interview entry- and mid-career professionals. After gathering and synthesizing data, I brainstormed ideas based on impact vs. feasibility. From there, I pinpointed one idea that could help optimize the auto-fill and applying process. I created a to-be user flow then made sketches of the user flow. Using Figma, I made mid-fidelity wireframes that I turned into a prototype. Finally, I conducted usability testing on the prototype and fine-tuned it based on quantitative metrics and qualitative feedback.
User Research
As a team of four user researchers, we interviewed five entry- and mid-career professionals that have either recently completed a job search or are currently searching for a job. We asked them a series of questions to pinpoint the highs and lows of using mobile job searching apps. From there, we gathered the data and synthesized it into themes using an affinity map.
“If I’m using the phone, I don’t want to be typing in a lot of stuff. It’d be nice if I can just find a place [and] click submit.”
Persona
I created Alex to associate with the users and their frustrations. By making a persona, the ups and downs of the user data come to life. Alex summarizes the on-the-go lifestyles of the various users we interviewed. Based on Alex’s frustrations and needs, I created a problem statement and How Might We…statement.
Problem statement
Alex needs a more efficient and accessible auto-fill application process so she can quickly apply to jobs while maintaining her active lifestyle.
How might we reduce auto-fill errors on applications to maximize efficiency?
Creation
After pinpointing the need that I wanted to address—auto fill frustrations—I developed a user flow to outline show where my idea occurs in the job application process. The user flow also details how I decided to alter the process of applying for jobs with the auto fill function.
The area highlighted shows a new pathway that prompts the user to fill in their application information upon account creation.
Sketches and Wireframes
These sketches represent the method of inputting job searcher information.
These wireframes represent the same method of inputting information, but in mid-fidelity
Usability Testing and Iteration
After creating a working prototype, I created a simple standard to gather quantitative and qualitative metrics. Based on the user metrics, 66% of users chose to input and save their information before searching for jobs. Furthermore, 100% of users decided to save their auto filled application information for use on future job applications. Based on qualitative feedback, I did make some changes to the user interface of the prototype in order to foster a clearer understanding of the process.
Next Steps
Refine: I believe with a refined interface and more studies on what information is needed to create a well-rounded application, this function can begin to enter into a more dynamic and complete usability testing phase.
Design: Once refined, this process can be added to Indeed’s existing user flow. Based on usability testing, users will be able to input their data while creating an account in order to facilitate a much faster job search/apply phase.
Expand: There are companies that use Indeed to post job openings, then direct applicants to their own, external site. This process could be made into an Indeed plug-in that will create auto-filled applications on external websites.