Creating a new Filetype, From scratch.
I was brought in to Superfile to consider how the user and potential customers would interact with the idea of a new file type that they have complete control over. As we all know, files come in literally all shapes and sizes and can be used in many different ways. With that knowledge, my design effort was attached to utilizing the .super file type for audio, video, image, and text. My role evolved from UX Designer to complete Product owner where I created wireframes, presented to leadership, and worked closely with lead devs to break up tasks in tickets which also sculpted the road map.
Challenge
The challenge was multifaceted: I had to design a MacOS app that:
Aligned with the web application: Ensure consistency between the platforms while making the MacOS version feel native to the OS.
Enable seamless file management: Let users convert any file type to
.super, share and unshare files, track access, and view file activity in a map view.Offer advanced security: Protect files against unauthorized screenshots and video recording.
Additionally, the design had to balance cutting-edge aesthetics (glassmorphism) with the foundational principles of MacOS design.
This wasn’t a new concept in the world of file management, but no company had yet combined all of these features into one seamless product. That’s where the real innovation happened.
My Role & Responsibilites
My Role and Responsibilities
As the founding UX Designer, I was responsible for all aspects of the user experience—from visual design to interaction patterns. As project manager, I managed the development process, ensuring that the product was delivered on time and aligned with business objectives.
Design Responsibilities:
Modular Components: I created over 400 reusable design components, ensuring the app was scalable and flexible as features evolved.
Visual Design System: Developed a sleek, dark-mode aesthetic with glassmorphism elements, ensuring innovation and usability.
Navigation & Interaction: Designed intuitive navigation and interactions that catered to novice and advanced users, considering file management and security features.
Product Management Responsibilities:
Cross-functional Communication: Served as the liaison between the CTO, CEO, and the engineering team to ensure alignment on progress and priorities.
Roadmap Planning: Managed the product roadmap, setting milestones and tracking deliverables.
Leadership Updates: Delivered regular updates to stakeholders, keeping everyone informed and engaged in the process.
Research & Strategy
User Research:
I conducted user interviews and surveys, focusing on pain points related to file management and security. By dedicating an entire sprint to competitor analysis, I examined services like Dropbox, Google Drive, and WeTransfer to uncover opportunities for differentiation.
Information Architecture:
I restructured the app’s navigation based on research insights, ensuring that users could easily access and manage key features. Analytics and behavioral data also informed decisions about feature prioritization.
Design Process
Wireframing & Prototyping:
I started with low-fidelity wireframes to visualize the layout and overall structure. From there, I built high-fidelity, interactive prototypes, using user feedback to refine and validate the design before development began.
Usability Testing:
I conducted usability tests throughout the design process, gathering valuable feedback to make refinements and ensure the app was intuitive and easy to use.
Visual Design:
The final design utilized a modern dark mode with glassmorphism elements, ensuring the interface felt sleek and functional. I created a comprehensive style guide to maintain consistency across future updates.
Key Challenges & Solutions
1. Managing Scope Creep:
One of the biggest challenges I faced was balancing new feature requests with tight timelines. As the sole designer and project manager, I had to manage both design and development tasks. When new features came in—like location tracking or screenshot protection—I had to plan, design, and iterate quickly to ensure we stayed on schedule. In hindsight, controlling scope creep and setting clearer boundaries around feature sets would have made the process smoother.
2. Rapid Iterations and Design Critiques:
The environment at Superfile was intense. Design critiques happened directly with investors, the CTO, and the CEO. These meetings were high-pressure, with rapid iterations happening based on feedback. I learned to balance creative freedom with practicality, making quick decisions while ensuring that the product stayed aligned with the overarching vision.
Outcomes & Impact
Scalable Design System: The modular design system I created laid the groundwork for future feature additions, ensuring that the app could grow alongside user needs.
Improved Usability: User feedback confirmed that the file management and navigation were significantly improved, with users appreciating the map view and security features.
Streamlined Development: Close collaboration with the engineering team ensured the product was delivered on schedule, even with the rapid pace of feature additions.
Positive Reception: The sleek, innovative design was met with praise, setting a new standard for future Superfile products.
Reflections
This project was a true test of balancing creativity with practicality. As both designer and project manager, I was constantly pivoting between high-level strategy and granular design details. The experience taught me the value of:
Adaptability: Juggling both design and project management roles required flexibility and the ability to switch between big-picture thinking and tactical execution.
Collaboration: Regular, transparent communication with stakeholders and engineering kept the project on track and ensured alignment.
Scope Management: Looking back, I would place greater emphasis on managing scope creep to prevent new features from derailing timelines and project goals.
Ultimately, this experience reinforced the importance of a cohesive vision, clear communication, and a willingness to iterate quickly. In the end, we didn’t just create a product—we crafted an experience that was both functional and a pleasure to use.
