Designing an Online Store That Appeals to University Students Based on Navigability and Design

Abstract: In Linköping, 85% of university students require a costume at least twice a year, but there is no easy, sustainable way for them to acquire one. This project aims to address that need by creating an online store in the form of a web application that provides a platform for students to buy and sell second-hand costumes. The focus of the project is to develop a user-friendly design and navigability that appeals to students, with input from earlier research in the field and two real user tests. The research findings suggest that it is possible to create a web application with high appeal using an iterative approach based on the theory of navigability and design together with user testing. The layout of well-known websites should be considered when designing the web application, and a low-depth and narrow design proved to be easily navigable by users. Providing responses and feedback on the website is important for a professional and clear user experience. Moreover, allowing users to reach the same page in different ways, reduces the risk of feeling lost and improves the overall user experience.