I designed an online sustainability resource hub to help people become more well-informed consumers.
Spring 2021
Timeline
4 Weeks
Skills
User Research, Visual Design, Interaction Design, Systems Design, Testing
Deliverables
Prototypes, 3D Renders
Fast fashion is a big problem.
it's hard to be a sustainable shopper,
especially when you don't know where to start and who to trust.
Research Methodology
Key Insights
Key Stakeholders
1. Consumers
2. Brands & Companies
3. Manufacturers
4. Academics & Legislators
Opportunity
How might we create a database around sustainability in the fashion industry in order to provide context to empower consumers with the choice to be more ethical, sustainable shoppers?
Ideation
Information
• Glossary of sustainability jargon
• Sustainable options (designers)
• Sustainable Materials list
• Profile
• Sustainability measurement methodology
User Testing
Feedback
• "Index" seems confusing, could change to "Resources"
• Have variety in layout to grab and hold attention
• "Trending" section might be more useful than "Recommended"
• Could have a more personalized feel to the site
Feedback
• Organize information on Wool in a more readable way, easier to digest at a glance
• Rather than designer options, it would be amazing if people could order swatches from the site!
Feedback
• Rather than just one section, could organize between "Up-and-coming Materials" and "Ready for Production Materials", as this better reflects the reality of material manufacturing
Solution
Fiber is an online resource hub for sustainability, providing a connection between consumers, companies, and suppliers.
On Fiber, individuals can
• Find options to shop more ethically and sustainably
• Learn about sustainability initiatives and guidelines
• Connect with vetted suppliers and purchase materials
Methodology
Companies and manufacturers will be featured on the website if they are Fiber Certified.
For a company to get Fiber Certified, they must meet a minimum number of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals* and prove how they are adhering and making progress towards the goals.
*methodology modeled off of Reformation's 2020 Sustainability Report
Fiber Walkthrough
1. Resources
• Explore sustainable designers, with information on each companies certifications and their progress towards the UN sustainability goals
• Browse educational resources, such as podcasts and books
2. Sustainable Practices
• Learn the latest initiatives and practices in the fashion industry
• Find sustainable habits, such as upcycling and thrifting
• Comment on and discuss articles with the Fiber community
3. Sustainable Materials
• Find new innovative materials
• Includes a section on up & coming materials, and a second section on materials ready for production and purchasable on the site
4. Legislation
• Learn about latest acts, laws, and regulations
• Find ways to get involved, such as signing petitions and joining groups
Looking Back at It
Through this project, I am so thankful I learned a great amount about the fast fashion industry. As someone who wants to shop more sustainably - and still sometimes buys from fast fashion brands - I wanted to learn more and share how one's shopping habits and choices have impact.
One thing this project proved to me was the importance of user research. The main pages and resources available on the website were honed down through interviews with industry professionals and seeing which aspects drew the most interest. Through this experience, I gained a deeper knowledge of the design and technical skills needed to present large amounts of information within an online space.
Thank you!
