Inkling Mobile App

Challenge

Discovering methods for both beginning and established writers to cultivate habits improving their creative output.

Research

Secondary: Examined habit-tracking apps (Stickk, Flora). Many apps with complex interfaces proved difficult to navigate, motivating focus toward clear, straightforward UX.

Primary: 6 Zoom interviews with writers across career stages (MFA students through publishing professionals).

Findings:

• Word-count goals benefit output production
• Time-based goals support productivity
• Consistent daily writing times strengthen practice
• Emotional obstacles hinder many writers
• External distractions impede writing
• Motivation increases when others engage with their work

Key takeaway: Emotional motivation and sense of purpose prove essential across all experience levels.

Competitor Analysis

Defining the Problem

Two personas captured early and later-stage writer experiences.

Writer Personas

Problem Statements:

• Writers need an app facilitating time-based or word count goal creation, enabling positive habit formation and creative goal achievement.
• Writers need apps connecting them to other writers, fostering community and increased motivation.

Design

User Flows

Sketches

Wireframes

Branding

Simplicity and accessibility were essential. Black-and-white palette with single accent color and simple pen-and-ink illustrations maintained minimalism while enhancing visual interest.

Style Tile

UI Screens

Onboarding

Payment

Home, Stats & Goals

Testing

5 Zoom participants evaluated onboarding, word count updates, and goal addition.

Task 1 — Onboarding (set word count goal, add payment stakes): 1:30-3:00 minutes. 3/5 users had moderate issues with goal setting page wording. 4/5 had low issues on payment page — didn't immediately scroll to "I Agree" button.

Task 2 — Update daily word count: 12-30 seconds. No issues.

Task 3 — Add a new goal: 10-25 seconds. No issues.

Priority Revisions: Rewrite goal setting language, address payment page scrolling.