
Project Overview
Problem Statement
Token Engineering Academy wanted to establish itself as an immersive learning platform, immersing users in specialized blockchain content, live discussions, and real-time data feeds. The blockchain industry is growing at an unprecedented rate, and there is a need for skilled professionals who understand the underlying technology and can develop innovative solutions.
Token Engineering is an emerging discipline that combines expertise in software engineering, economics, and game theory to design and build decentralized systems. However, there is a lack of accessible and comprehensive resources to learn Token Engineering skills.
Objectives
Responsive Design of Token Engineering Academy Website
Research and Analysis to identify user needs and preferences
Project Scope
Responsive Website, Mobile
Tools
Figma, InVision, Miro
Role
UX Designer (Research, Visual
Design, Interaction Design, User
Testing)
View Life Site
The Approach
I worked with Token Engineering Academy to make a fun and interactive learning platform. It has live data and game-like features to make learning better. I also made sure it works well on mobile devices. This is because I know how important it is for users to have a good experience on any device. So, users can use the TE Academy platform anywhere, on any device they like.

Research
Research Plan
The blockchain EdTech platform is a comprehensive solution for learners to develop the necessary skills to become proficient Token Engineers. The product design process was centered around user needs and preferences, ensuring that the product meets the needs of the target audience. It lays essential foundations for creating solutions in later stages.
To inform the design process, I conducted a mix of primary and secondary research. The primary research surveyed 15+ potential users on the biggest pain points of a proposed learning platform merging courses, examination and subsequently minting out completion certificates as POAPs through the use of a crypto wallet.
Research Goals
Determine the market demand for Token Engineering education and identify the specific needs of learners in the industry.
Conduct a gap analysis of existing Token Engineering educational resources to identify areas where the proposed platform could provide unique value to learners
Investigate the effectiveness of using NFT certificates as a tangible incentive for completing Token Engineering courses and explore alternative forms of incentives
Investigate the effectiveness of various interactive and engaging learning experiences on learner motivation, engagement, and knowledge retention
Investigate the most effective ways to accommodate different learning styles and provide a personalized learning experience for each user
Assumptions
There is a significant demand for Token Engineering education among blockchain professionals and enthusiasts
Current Token Engineering educational resources are limited and do not provide a comprehensive curriculum that covers all necessary aspects of the discipline
A significant number of learners would be interested in earning NFT certificates as a tangible incentive for completing Token Engineering courses
Learners prefer interactive and engaging learning experiences, including quizzes, exercises, and simulation
The platform should be designed to provide an intuitive user experience and a visually appealing interface to enhance user engagement and motivation
The platform should be designed to accommodate various learning styles, including visual, auditory, and kinesthetic learners
Methodology
Secondary Research (Market Research, Competitive Analysis)
Primary Research (User Interviews)
Market Research
Token engineering is a rapidly growing field in the blockchain industry, with a high demand for professionals with the necessary skills and knowledge. I determined that Market research is an essential step in the development of a blockchain EdTech platform for learning token
Market Size and Potential:
The global blockchain market is expected to grow to $39.7 billion by 2025, and the demand for blockchain professionals is expected to grow in tandem. This presents a significant opportunity for the development of an EdTech platform that specializes in token engineering.
Target Audience
The target audience for the platform would primarily consist of blockchain professionals and enthusiasts, ranging from beginners to advanced learners. The platform should aim to appeal to both individuals looking to transition into a career in Token Engineering and those seeking to upskill in the field.
The platform could cater to individuals in different industries, including finance, healthcare, logistics, and more,who are interested in learning about token engineering and blockchain technology specific to their industry.
Competitive Research
It is equally important to identify the strengths and weaknesses of competitors By analyzing their offerings, course content, teaching methods, and user experience, it is possible to identify gaps in the market that can be exploited to create a competitive advantage. I analyzed 3 blockchain EdTech platforms that offer a comprehensive Token Engineering course. Each platform has unique features, course content, and learning methods..

User Persona
Based on my research, I developed user personas and journey maps to define user goals, motivations, and behaviors. This helped to create a user-centered design approach and ensure that the product meets the needs of the target audience.

User Interview
I conducted primary research to validate some of our assumptions and gain insights from potential users. I carried out user interviews and surveys to understand their needs, preferences, and pain points when it comes to learning token engineering. Here are some highlights from the research:
Users are interested in a self-paced course that allows them to learn at their own pace and convenience
Most users prefer an interactive and hands-on approach to learning. They want to work on real-world projects and learn through experimentation
Users are interested in a course that covers the basics of token engineering, smart contract development, token economics, and governance
Users would like to see some form of certification or recognition for completing the course, such as an NFT certificate
Assumptions Validated
I also conducted a survey to validate some of our assumptions about the potential user base for the platform. I received 15 responses from people who had an interest in blockchain and token engineering. Some of the key findings from the survey include
The majority of respondents were between the ages of 25 and 40, with a significant percentage being students or working professionals. Validated
Most respondents had some knowledge or experience with blockchain technology, but only a few had experience with token engineering. Validated. Most respondents had limited experience with token Engineering
Respondents would be more likely to take the course if it offered some form of certification or recognition for completing the course. Validated. More than 90% participants said they prefer to be awarded a certificate for course completion
Respondents were interested in a course that was affordable, comprehensive, and provided a hands-on learning experience.
Research Synthesis
Empathy Map
I then created an empathy map to better aggregate the thoughts, feelings, and behaviors of our potential users from all the data I have collated. Here is what I learned:

Insights
Users are excited about the potential of blockchain technology and want to be part of its growth.
Users are intimidated by the complexity of token engineering and worry that it may be too difficult for me to understand.
Users are concerned about the lack of recognition and certification my knowledge and skills in token engineering.
Users are Motivated to learn about token engineering, but also overwhelmed and unsure of where to start.
Needs
Users need to know they can go online for resources and courses to learn about token engineering
Users need to talk to other blockchain enthusiasts or professionals to gain insights and advice on how to learn about token engineering
Users want to attend blockchain events or conferences to network and gain exposure to the industry.
Strategy
How Might We
I then proceeded to developed a "How might we" strategy to guide my ideation process and ensure that I am addressing the most important challenges and opportunities.
How might we make learning about token engineering more accessible and understandable for beginners?
How might we design an interactive and engaging learning experience that keeps users motivated and excited to learn?
How might we partner with blockchain companies or organizations to offer real-world case studies and projects that apply token engineering concepts and skills?
How might we ensure that our platform is inclusive and accessible for a diverse audience with different backgrounds and learning preferences
How might we continuously gather feedback and insights from our users to improve and refine our platform over time?
By framing the challenges and opportunities as "How might we" questions, I can approach them with a problem-solving mindset and generate creative and impactful ideas that align with our users' needs and preferences. I can also use these questions to prioritize the product roadmap and ensure that I am delivering value and impact to the users.
Design
Site Map
Based on my previous research, I identified the key features and functionalities that the platform should offer to provide the best possible learning experience for our users. I then organized these features and functionalities into a logical and user-friendly site map that will allow users to easily navigate the platform and find the resources they need to succeed in the field of token engineering.

Wireframe
I then developed wireframes and prototypes to visualize the product's architecture and functionalities. This helped to ensure that the product's design is intuitive, easy to use, and meets user need. It also meant I was able to examine my ideas before making digital prototypes.

Prototype and Testing
Usability Testing
As part of the development process, I conducted usability testing to ensure that our platform is user-friendly and easy to navigate. The purpose of this testing was to identify any usability issues that might affect the user experience and to improve the overall usability of the platform. I then prepared a usability testing plan to act as a test guide for both me and participants.
Conducting the Test
During the testing, I observed the users as they completed the tasks and asked them to think aloud about their experience. I also collected data on how long it took them to complete each task, whether they encountered any issues, and how easy or difficult they found the platform to use. I created transcripts for each participants as I noted their observations, how they navigated the platform, confusions, lag, and difficulty in completing a task.
Affinity Map
After conducting usability testing, I analyzed the results to identify common themes and issues. To help organize and make sense of the data, I created an affinity map. To create the affinity map, I first wrote down all of the observations and feedback I received from the users during the usability
testing. I then grouped these observations into common themes and created a visual representation of the results.
Navigation
Users had difficulty finding certain features on the platform, such as the course catalog or their account settings. This was a common issue that emerged during the testing and was identified as an area that required improvement.
Course Contents
Several users found some of the course content to be too technical and difficult to understand. They also wanted more examples to help them understand the concepts. This was a common theme that emerged during the testing and highlighted the need to simplify the language used in the courses and provide more examples.
Mobile Optimization
Some users encountered usability issues when trying to access the platform on their mobile devices. This theme emerged from a small group of users but was still identified as an area that required improvement
Updates to Wireframes
The affinity map was an effective tool for organizing and analyzing the results of the usability testing. It helped me identify common themes and issues that emerged during the testing and allowed me to prioritize which areas required improvement. By addressing the issues identified in the affinity map, I improved the user experience on the platform

Design Solution
Branding
I designed Token Engineering Academy's brand to appeal to those familiar with crypto, giving it a fresh educational feel. Inspired by popular tech in education, the goal is to symbolize empowerment, innovation, and discovery, positioning the Academy as a leader in shaping the blockchain and token engineering future.

Sign Up Page
The Sign up process for new users is through social signups.

Home Page
After discussions, I decided to have a call to action button on a landing page to direct users to additional information about the platform, and because Enrolling in a course is the core feature of the platform, introduced the TE academy course fundamentals to be viewed easily by the first time user.

Explore Courses
I added more details to the Course cards, including the course title, subtitle, number of students enrolled, and a tag for the course category. The Course page now also offers more information about each course and a Button to enroll.

Events Page
Showed featured events in a gallery, included a section for future events, and also for past events.

User Profile
Showed featured events in a gallery, included a section for future events, and also for past events.

All Screens

Mobile Screens

Conclusion and Impact
Active Users
Since October 2022, TE Academy’s comprehensive study programs have brought over 3000 active users to the Optimism Collective. After months of studying, students have minted 1000+ NFT proofs reflecting personal achievements and students keep these account-bound NFTs forever.
The TE weekly newsletter shares the most relevant token engineering developments with 5K+ subscribers with an 40% open rate, and features Optimism in every edition
TE Newsletter
The TE weekly newsletter shares the most relevant token engineering developments with 5K+ subscribers with an 40% open rate, and features Optimism in every edition.
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Project Overview
Problem Statement
Token Engineering Academy wanted to establish itself as an immersive learning platform, immersing users in specialized blockchain content, live discussions, and real-time data feeds. The blockchain industry is growing at an unprecedented rate, and there is a need for skilled professionals who understand the underlying technology and can develop innovative solutions.
Token Engineering is an emerging discipline that combines expertise in software engineering, economics, and game theory to design and build decentralized systems. However, there is a lack of accessible and comprehensive resources to learn Token Engineering skills.
Objectives
Responsive Design of Token Engineering Academy Website
Research and Analysis to identify user needs and preferences
Project Scope
Responsive Website, Mobile
Tools
Figma, InVision, Miro
Role
UX Designer (Research, Visual
Design, Interaction Design, User
Testing)
View Life Site
The Approach
I worked with Token Engineering Academy to make a fun and interactive learning platform. It has live data and game-like features to make learning better. I also made sure it works well on mobile devices. This is because I know how important it is for users to have a good experience on any device. So, users can use the TE Academy platform anywhere, on any device they like.

Research
Research Plan
The blockchain EdTech platform is a comprehensive solution for learners to develop the necessary skills to become proficient Token Engineers. The product design process was centered around user needs and preferences, ensuring that the product meets the needs of the target audience. It lays essential foundations for creating solutions in later stages.
To inform the design process, I conducted a mix of primary and secondary research. The primary research surveyed 15+ potential users on the biggest pain points of a proposed learning platform merging courses, examination and subsequently minting out completion certificates as POAPs through the use of a crypto wallet.
Research Goals
Determine the market demand for Token Engineering education and identify the specific needs of learners in the industry.
Conduct a gap analysis of existing Token Engineering educational resources to identify areas where the proposed platform could provide unique value to learners
Investigate the effectiveness of using NFT certificates as a tangible incentive for completing Token Engineering courses and explore alternative forms of incentives
Investigate the effectiveness of various interactive and engaging learning experiences on learner motivation, engagement, and knowledge retention
Investigate the most effective ways to accommodate different learning styles and provide a personalized learning experience for each user
Assumptions
There is a significant demand for Token Engineering education among blockchain professionals and enthusiasts
Current Token Engineering educational resources are limited and do not provide a comprehensive curriculum that covers all necessary aspects of the discipline
A significant number of learners would be interested in earning NFT certificates as a tangible incentive for completing Token Engineering courses
Learners prefer interactive and engaging learning experiences, including quizzes, exercises, and simulation
The platform should be designed to provide an intuitive user experience and a visually appealing interface to enhance user engagement and motivation
The platform should be designed to accommodate various learning styles, including visual, auditory, and kinesthetic learners
Methodology
Secondary Research (Market Research, Competitive Analysis)
Primary Research (User Interviews)
Market Research
Token engineering is a rapidly growing field in the blockchain industry, with a high demand for professionals with the necessary skills and knowledge. I determined that Market research is an essential step in the development of a blockchain EdTech platform for learning token
Market Size and Potential:
The global blockchain market is expected to grow to $39.7 billion by 2025, and the demand for blockchain professionals is expected to grow in tandem. This presents a significant opportunity for the development of an EdTech platform that specializes in token engineering.
Target Audience
The target audience for the platform would primarily consist of blockchain professionals and enthusiasts, ranging from beginners to advanced learners. The platform should aim to appeal to both individuals looking to transition into a career in Token Engineering and those seeking to upskill in the field.
The platform could cater to individuals in different industries, including finance, healthcare, logistics, and more,who are interested in learning about token engineering and blockchain technology specific to their industry.
Competitive Research
It is equally important to identify the strengths and weaknesses of competitors By analyzing their offerings, course content, teaching methods, and user experience, it is possible to identify gaps in the market that can be exploited to create a competitive advantage. I analyzed 3 blockchain EdTech platforms that offer a comprehensive Token Engineering course. Each platform has unique features, course content, and learning methods..

User Persona
Based on my research, I developed user personas and journey maps to define user goals, motivations, and behaviors. This helped to create a user-centered design approach and ensure that the product meets the needs of the target audience.

User Interview
I conducted primary research to validate some of our assumptions and gain insights from potential users. I carried out user interviews and surveys to understand their needs, preferences, and pain points when it comes to learning token engineering. Here are some highlights from the research:
Users are interested in a self-paced course that allows them to learn at their own pace and convenience
Most users prefer an interactive and hands-on approach to learning. They want to work on real-world projects and learn through experimentation
Users are interested in a course that covers the basics of token engineering, smart contract development, token economics, and governance
Users would like to see some form of certification or recognition for completing the course, such as an NFT certificate
Assumptions Validated
I also conducted a survey to validate some of our assumptions about the potential user base for the platform. I received 15 responses from people who had an interest in blockchain and token engineering. Some of the key findings from the survey include
The majority of respondents were between the ages of 25 and 40, with a significant percentage being students or working professionals. Validated
Most respondents had some knowledge or experience with blockchain technology, but only a few had experience with token engineering. Validated. Most respondents had limited experience with token Engineering
Respondents would be more likely to take the course if it offered some form of certification or recognition for completing the course. Validated. More than 90% participants said they prefer to be awarded a certificate for course completion
Respondents were interested in a course that was affordable, comprehensive, and provided a hands-on learning experience.
Research Synthesis
Empathy Map
I then created an empathy map to better aggregate the thoughts, feelings, and behaviors of our potential users from all the data I have collated. Here is what I learned:

Insights
Users are excited about the potential of blockchain technology and want to be part of its growth.
Users are intimidated by the complexity of token engineering and worry that it may be too difficult for me to understand.
Users are concerned about the lack of recognition and certification my knowledge and skills in token engineering.
Users are Motivated to learn about token engineering, but also overwhelmed and unsure of where to start.
Needs
Users need to know they can go online for resources and courses to learn about token engineering
Users need to talk to other blockchain enthusiasts or professionals to gain insights and advice on how to learn about token engineering
Users want to attend blockchain events or conferences to network and gain exposure to the industry.
Strategy
How Might We
I then proceeded to developed a "How might we" strategy to guide my ideation process and ensure that I am addressing the most important challenges and opportunities.
How might we make learning about token engineering more accessible and understandable for beginners?
How might we design an interactive and engaging learning experience that keeps users motivated and excited to learn?
How might we partner with blockchain companies or organizations to offer real-world case studies and projects that apply token engineering concepts and skills?
How might we ensure that our platform is inclusive and accessible for a diverse audience with different backgrounds and learning preferences
How might we continuously gather feedback and insights from our users to improve and refine our platform over time?
By framing the challenges and opportunities as "How might we" questions, I can approach them with a problem-solving mindset and generate creative and impactful ideas that align with our users' needs and preferences. I can also use these questions to prioritize the product roadmap and ensure that I am delivering value and impact to the users.
Design
Site Map
Based on my previous research, I identified the key features and functionalities that the platform should offer to provide the best possible learning experience for our users. I then organized these features and functionalities into a logical and user-friendly site map that will allow users to easily navigate the platform and find the resources they need to succeed in the field of token engineering.

Wireframe
I then developed wireframes and prototypes to visualize the product's architecture and functionalities. This helped to ensure that the product's design is intuitive, easy to use, and meets user need. It also meant I was able to examine my ideas before making digital prototypes.

Prototype and Testing
Usability Testing
As part of the development process, I conducted usability testing to ensure that our platform is user-friendly and easy to navigate. The purpose of this testing was to identify any usability issues that might affect the user experience and to improve the overall usability of the platform. I then prepared a usability testing plan to act as a test guide for both me and participants.
Conducting the Test
During the testing, I observed the users as they completed the tasks and asked them to think aloud about their experience. I also collected data on how long it took them to complete each task, whether they encountered any issues, and how easy or difficult they found the platform to use. I created transcripts for each participants as I noted their observations, how they navigated the platform, confusions, lag, and difficulty in completing a task.
Affinity Map
After conducting usability testing, I analyzed the results to identify common themes and issues. To help organize and make sense of the data, I created an affinity map. To create the affinity map, I first wrote down all of the observations and feedback I received from the users during the usability
testing. I then grouped these observations into common themes and created a visual representation of the results.
Navigation
Users had difficulty finding certain features on the platform, such as the course catalog or their account settings. This was a common issue that emerged during the testing and was identified as an area that required improvement.
Course Contents
Several users found some of the course content to be too technical and difficult to understand. They also wanted more examples to help them understand the concepts. This was a common theme that emerged during the testing and highlighted the need to simplify the language used in the courses and provide more examples.
Mobile Optimization
Some users encountered usability issues when trying to access the platform on their mobile devices. This theme emerged from a small group of users but was still identified as an area that required improvement
Updates to Wireframes
The affinity map was an effective tool for organizing and analyzing the results of the usability testing. It helped me identify common themes and issues that emerged during the testing and allowed me to prioritize which areas required improvement. By addressing the issues identified in the affinity map, I improved the user experience on the platform

Design Solution
Branding
I designed Token Engineering Academy's brand to appeal to those familiar with crypto, giving it a fresh educational feel. Inspired by popular tech in education, the goal is to symbolize empowerment, innovation, and discovery, positioning the Academy as a leader in shaping the blockchain and token engineering future.

Sign Up Page
The Sign up process for new users is through social signups.

Home Page
After discussions, I decided to have a call to action button on a landing page to direct users to additional information about the platform, and because Enrolling in a course is the core feature of the platform, introduced the TE academy course fundamentals to be viewed easily by the first time user.

Explore Courses
I added more details to the Course cards, including the course title, subtitle, number of students enrolled, and a tag for the course category. The Course page now also offers more information about each course and a Button to enroll.

Events Page
Showed featured events in a gallery, included a section for future events, and also for past events.

User Profile
Showed featured events in a gallery, included a section for future events, and also for past events.

All Screens

Mobile Screens

Conclusion and Impact
Active Users
Since October 2022, TE Academy’s comprehensive study programs have brought over 3000 active users to the Optimism Collective. After months of studying, students have minted 1000+ NFT proofs reflecting personal achievements and students keep these account-bound NFTs forever.
The TE weekly newsletter shares the most relevant token engineering developments with 5K+ subscribers with an 40% open rate, and features Optimism in every edition
TE Newsletter
The TE weekly newsletter shares the most relevant token engineering developments with 5K+ subscribers with an 40% open rate, and features Optimism in every edition.
Browse Other Projects
Giveth
Building the Future of Giving
Giveth
Giveth aims to facilitate seamless global giving, rewarding those driving positive
See More
xTOKEN Terminal
Mining, Origination, Auction, Bonds
xToken Terminal
XTOKEN Terminal is a platform designed to provide DeFi permissionless access to financial primitives
See More
Vaulty Banking Mobile App




Vaulty
Vaulty is a digital bank with a vision to provide a seamless, secure, and user-friendly mobile banking experience for its customers
See More


Project Overview
Project Scope
Responsive Website, Mobile
Tools
Figma, InVision, Miro
Role
UX Designer (Research, Visual
Design, Interaction Design, User
Testing)
Problem Statement
Token Engineering Academy wanted to establish itself as an immersive learning platform, immersing users in specialized blockchain content, live discussions, and real-time data feeds. The blockchain industry is growing at an unprecedented rate, and there is a need for skilled professionals who understand the underlying technology and can develop innovative solutions.
Token Engineering is an emerging discipline that combines expertise in software engineering, economics, and game theory to design and build decentralized systems. However, there is a lack of accessible and comprehensive resources to learn Token Engineering skills.
Objectives
Responsive Design of Token Engineering Academy Website
Research and Analysis to identify user needs and preferences
View Life Site
The Approach
I worked with Token Engineering Academy to make a fun and interactive learning platform. It has live data and game-like features to make learning better. I also made sure it works well on mobile devices. This is because I know how important it is for users to have a good experience on any device. So, users can use the TE Academy platform anywhere, on any device they like.


Research
Research Plan
The blockchain EdTech platform is a comprehensive solution for learners to develop the necessary skills to become proficient Token Engineers. The product design process was centered around user needs and preferences, ensuring that the product meets the needs of the target audience. It lays essential foundations for creating solutions in later stages.
To inform the design process, I conducted a mix of primary and secondary research. The primary research surveyed 15+ potential users on the biggest pain points of a proposed learning platform merging courses, examination and subsequently minting out completion certificates as POAPs through the use of a crypto wallet.
Research Goals
Determine the market demand for Token Engineering education and identify the specific needs of learners in the industry.
Conduct a gap analysis of existing Token Engineering educational resources to identify areas where the proposed platform could provide unique value to learners
Investigate the effectiveness of using NFT certificates as a tangible incentive for completing Token Engineering courses and explore alternative forms of incentives
Investigate the effectiveness of various interactive and engaging learning experiences on learner motivation, engagement, and knowledge retention
Investigate the most effective ways to accommodate different learning styles and provide a personalized learning experience for each user
Assumptions
There is a significant demand for Token Engineering education among blockchain professionals and enthusiasts
Current Token Engineering educational resources are limited and do not provide a comprehensive curriculum that covers all necessary aspects of the discipline
A significant number of learners would be interested in earning NFT certificates as a tangible incentive for completing Token Engineering courses
Learners prefer interactive and engaging learning experiences, including quizzes, exercises, and simulation
The platform should be designed to provide an intuitive user experience and a visually appealing interface to enhance user engagement and motivation
The platform should be designed to accommodate various learning styles, including visual, auditory, and kinesthetic learners
Methodology
Secondary Research (Market Research, Competitive Analysis)
Primary Research (User Interviews)
Market Research
Token engineering is a rapidly growing field in the blockchain industry, with a high demand for professionals with the necessary skills and knowledge. I determined that Market research is an essential step in the development of a blockchain EdTech platform for learning token
Market Size and Potential:
The global blockchain market is expected to grow to $39.7 billion by 2025, and the demand for blockchain professionals is expected to grow in tandem. This presents a significant opportunity for the development of an EdTech platform that specializes in token engineering.
Target Audience
The target audience for the platform would primarily consist of blockchain professionals and enthusiasts, ranging from beginners to advanced learners. The platform should aim to appeal to both individuals looking to transition into a career in Token Engineering and those seeking to upskill in the field.
The platform could cater to individuals in different industries, including finance, healthcare, logistics, and more,who are interested in learning about token engineering and blockchain technology specific to their industry.
Competitive Research
It is equally important to identify the strengths and weaknesses of competitors By analyzing their offerings, course content, teaching methods, and user experience, it is possible to identify gaps in the market that can be exploited to create a competitive advantage. I analyzed 3 blockchain EdTech platforms that offer a comprehensive Token Engineering course. Each platform has unique features, course content, and learning methods..


User Persona
Based on my research, I developed user personas and journey maps to define user goals, motivations, and behaviors. This helped to create a user-centered design approach and ensure that the product meets the needs of the target audience.


User Interview
I conducted primary research to validate some of our assumptions and gain insights from potential users. I carried out user interviews and surveys to understand their needs, preferences, and pain points when it comes to learning token engineering. Here are some highlights from the research:
Users are interested in a self-paced course that allows them to learn at their own pace and convenience
Most users prefer an interactive and hands-on approach to learning. They want to work on real-world projects and learn through experimentation
Users are interested in a course that covers the basics of token engineering, smart contract development, token economics, and governance
Users would like to see some form of certification or recognition for completing the course, such as an NFT certificate
Assumptions Validated
I also conducted a survey to validate some of our assumptions about the potential user base for the platform. I received 15 responses from people who had an interest in blockchain and token engineering. Some of the key findings from the survey include
The majority of respondents were between the ages of 25 and 40, with a significant percentage being students or working professionals. Validated
Most respondents had some knowledge or experience with blockchain technology, but only a few had experience with token engineering. Validated. Most respondents had limited experience with token Engineering
Respondents would be more likely to take the course if it offered some form of certification or recognition for completing the course. Validated. More than 90% participants said they prefer to be awarded a certificate for course completion
Respondents were interested in a course that was affordable, comprehensive, and provided a hands-on learning experience.
Research Synthesis
Empathy Map
I then created an empathy map to better aggregate the thoughts, feelings, and behaviors of our potential users from all the data I have collated. Here is what I learned:


Insights
Users are excited about the potential of blockchain technology and want to be part of its growth.
Users are intimidated by the complexity of token engineering and worry that it may be too difficult for me to understand.
Users are concerned about the lack of recognition and certification my knowledge and skills in token engineering.
Users are Motivated to learn about token engineering, but also overwhelmed and unsure of where to start.
Needs
Users need to know they can go online for resources and courses to learn about token engineering
Users need to talk to other blockchain enthusiasts or professionals to gain insights and advice on how to learn about token engineering
Users want to attend blockchain events or conferences to network and gain exposure to the industry.
Strategy
How Might We
I then proceeded to developed a "How might we" strategy to guide my ideation process and ensure that I am addressing the most important challenges and opportunities.
How might we make learning about token engineering more accessible and understandable for beginners?
How might we design an interactive and engaging learning experience that keeps users motivated and excited to learn?
How might we partner with blockchain companies or organizations to offer real-world case studies and projects that apply token engineering concepts and skills?
How might we ensure that our platform is inclusive and accessible for a diverse audience with different backgrounds and learning preferences
How might we continuously gather feedback and insights from our users to improve and refine our platform over time?
By framing the challenges and opportunities as "How might we" questions, I can approach them with a problem-solving mindset and generate creative and impactful ideas that align with our users' needs and preferences. I can also use these questions to prioritize the product roadmap and ensure that I am delivering value and impact to the users.
Design
Site Map
Based on my previous research, I identified the key features and functionalities that the platform should offer to provide the best possible learning experience for our users. I then organized these features and functionalities into a logical and user-friendly site map that will allow users to easily navigate the platform and find the resources they need to succeed in the field of token engineering.


Wireframe
I then developed wireframes and prototypes to visualize the product's architecture and functionalities. This helped to ensure that the product's design is intuitive, easy to use, and meets user need. It also meant I was able to examine my ideas before making digital prototypes.


Prototype and Testing
Usability Testing
As part of the development process, I conducted usability testing to ensure that our platform is user-friendly and easy to navigate. The purpose of this testing was to identify any usability issues that might affect the user experience and to improve the overall usability of the platform. I then prepared a usability testing plan to act as a test guide for both me and participants.
Conducting the Test
During the testing, I observed the users as they completed the tasks and asked them to think aloud about their experience. I also collected data on how long it took them to complete each task, whether they encountered any issues, and how easy or difficult they found the platform to use. I created transcripts for each participants as I noted their observations, how they navigated the platform, confusions, lag, and difficulty in completing a task.
Affinity Map
After conducting usability testing, I analyzed the results to identify common themes and issues. To help organize and make sense of the data, I created an affinity map. To create the affinity map, I first wrote down all of the observations and feedback I received from the users during the usability
testing. I then grouped these observations into common themes and created a visual representation of the results.
Navigation
Users had difficulty finding certain features on the platform, such as the course catalog or their account settings. This was a common issue that emerged during the testing and was identified as an area that required improvement.
Course Contents
Several users found some of the course content to be too technical and difficult to understand. They also wanted more examples to help them understand the concepts. This was a common theme that emerged during the testing and highlighted the need to simplify the language used in the courses and provide more examples.
Mobile Optimization
Some users encountered usability issues when trying to access the platform on their mobile devices. This theme emerged from a small group of users but was still identified as an area that required improvement
Updates to Wireframes
The affinity map was an effective tool for organizing and analyzing the results of the usability testing. It helped me identify common themes and issues that emerged during the testing and allowed me to prioritize which areas required improvement. By addressing the issues identified in the affinity map, I improved the user experience on the platform


Design Solution
Branding
I designed Token Engineering Academy's brand to appeal to those familiar with crypto, giving it a fresh educational feel. Inspired by popular tech in education, the goal is to symbolize empowerment, innovation, and discovery, positioning the Academy as a leader in shaping the blockchain and token engineering future.


Sign Up Page
The Sign up process for new users is through social signups.


Home Page
After discussions, I decided to have a call to action button on a landing page to direct users to additional information about the platform, and because Enrolling in a course is the core feature of the platform, introduced the TE academy course fundamentals to be viewed easily by the first time user.


Explore Courses
I added more details to the Course cards, including the course title, subtitle, number of students enrolled, and a tag for the course category. The Course page now also offers more information about each course and a Button to enroll.


Events Page
Showed featured events in a gallery, included a section for future events, and also for past events.


User Profile
Showed featured events in a gallery, included a section for future events, and also for past events.


All Screens


Mobile Screens


Conclusion and Impact
Active Users
Since October 2022, TE Academy’s comprehensive study programs have brought over 3000 active users to the Optimism Collective. After months of studying, students have minted 1000+ NFT proofs reflecting personal achievements and students keep these account-bound NFTs forever.
The TE weekly newsletter shares the most relevant token engineering developments with 5K+ subscribers with an 40% open rate, and features Optimism in every edition
TE Newsletter
The TE weekly newsletter shares the most relevant token engineering developments with 5K+ subscribers with an 40% open rate, and features Optimism in every edition.
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