Bachelor Graduation Project: The Guitar Teacher App
Following velma, I developed and designed an iOS app with a commercial focus. The goal was to analyze the music instrument and guitar learning device market, identify target groups, and create a learning app that meets user needs, aesthetic preferences, and boosts learning efficiency.
Tools used: Photoshop, Illustrator, Invision, Axure RP Pro, Final Cut Pro, After Effects
Materials used: I created my own film material for the animated sequences of the app.
Rapid Prototype
and User Centered Design
To validate my assumptions, I conducted both quantitative and qualitative research. I focused on understanding why people want to teach themselves guitar and how they learn best. I created a questionnaire and distributed it through my network to gather a wide range of responses. The insights were visualized in infographics, which served as a cheat sheet to guide further product concept decisions.
Design Research Methods
Based on user and extensive market research, I developed a target group and three personas. The design and key features were tailored to the persona most likely to enjoy the product, with a focus on addressing each persona's individual needs. Due to time constraints, some features were postponed for later development (see Site Map)
Site Map
The key features are informed by prior research. Due to time constraints, I concentrated on the highlighted functions and their screens during the wireframing process.
Wireframes
Main Menu
Alternate screens for the main menu.
It is easier to quickly navigate through images rather than through reading the information: The test users went after the artist they recognized rather than the title of the lesson.
It also was visually more appealing, albeit not yet recognizable in the wireframes.
Skill Progress
In this mode, users are guided through the artist's lessons and can track their progress.
To maintain consistency and reduce clutter, the first version of this mode was selected for the final design.
The Lessons
Among the target group, there are gamers who are familiar with interfaces of games like Rocksmith and Guitar Hero. However, testing revealed that these games primarily train reflexes. I opted for a simpler layout without gamification: a video lecture combined with a mirrored guitar neck. Users can optionally view chords, notes, or ASCII tabs.
Final Lesson Wireframe
Previous Iterations
with more gamification elements
Content Creation
Since users preferred learning from a human rather than a robotic device, incorporating video elements featuring real musicians and guitar teachers was essential.
In one week, I scripted, filmed, and edited the lessons in a professional setting. The following week was dedicated to post-production, including voiceovers, sound editing, and special effects for the interactive elements on the guitar neck during the main activity. Here is an excerpt:
velma — GuitArduino Controller
The app extends a project aimed at creating a learning device for guitar beginners. It utilizes materials from the Rea and Fry community, focusing on the software Processing and the mini-computer Arduino. The controller communicates user behavior to a custom program that delivers real-time feedback.
Tools used: Arduino, Processing, Photoshop, Illustrator, Flash, Pro Engineer; soldering gun
Materials used: deconstructed Ashton e-guitar, pinewood, radio wires
