A platform where writers build a community of readers who they share interests with.
I started this project because there has yet to be a platform as accessible for writers the way other social media platforms have been able to succeed. A redesign would be valuable since Substack is fairly new, and I found issues on the homepage that made me wonder if other users agree.
Role
UX Designer
Tools
Figma
Optimal Workshop
Duration
August 2023 - Current
Goals
Improve the accessibility of Substack by ensuring that all features and functionalities can be accessed and operated effectively using a keyboard alone.
Problem
Accessibility barriers within Substack's user experience hinder full engagement and access for users with disabilities or limited access to the mouse.
Design Thinking
Understanding the User
Competitive Analysis
WordPress
Strengths: Various skip buttons are accessible with only a keyboard, offering, users the option to avoid unnecessary information.
Weakness: Using a dotted line as a focus indicators can confuse the user as it is small and easily blends in with the text.
Medium
Strengths: Keyboard focus is visible, making it easy for the user to know their location on the page.
Weakness: The option to exit the pop-up using keyboard access is missing.
The focus indicators on Substack will be bold, straight lines. The user testing should focus on the preference of the user for indicator colors and shapes.
With my design, I plan to implement navigation through logical tab order and the option to skip or exit with a keyboard.