Designers
Cobi Stancik
Year
2024
Category
New Talent
Country
United States
School
University of Washington
Teacher
James Pierce, Cayla Key
Three questions to the project team
What was the particular challenge of the project from a UX point of view?
The primary challenge in this project from a UX standpoint was finding the delicate balance between addressing the multifaceted needs of users while maintaining a simple and intuitive interface. Through the year and a half, this project has endured two UI redesigns as a direct correlation to user feedback. Adapting the app based on user feedback meant continuously refining the interface and introducing new features. Striking this balance was essential for ensuring users feel empowered rather than overwhelmed, ultimately enhancing their overall cooking experience.
What was your personal highlight in the development process? Was there an aha!-moment, was there a low point?
A significant personal highlight is the project's current state; I am very proud of what I have accomplished leading me to submit it for the UX Design Awards. I think my aha moment and low point correlate after my first full reconstruction of the UI. I received feedback about how well the current app addressed my target audience, citing a complicated interface with an overwhelming layout structure. I ultimately agreed with them, which led to another complete UI overhaul, though hearing such a negative critique of my project was saddening. That feedback helped me redefine this product's goals, ensuring the current project addressed those issues by creating a clean and intuitive experience in it's current iteration.
Where do you see yourself and the project in the next five years?
I plan to pursue student science and technology showcases and participate in a start-up competition within the coming months. I hope to get funding and secure a team to help further the development of Hidden Kitchen. I hope to still be a part of this project in five years, hopefully with a fully developed and market-ready product. I could see myself merging into a Product Management role, overseeing the product's progress. I have a love for Hidden Kitchen, and I am driven by the vision of creating a product that redefines the landscape of home cooking. I believe that, in five years, Hidden Kitchen will not only be a reality but a true tool that could be used in any home to help with the cooking process.
