inkwell
inkwell is a new, user-centered platform designed to address the major gaps in current book tracking and discovery systems — specifically the frustrations users experience with outdated platforms like Goodreads. While Goodreads served as a diagnostic reference point to identify usability issues, Inkwell is not a redesign, but a ground-up reimagining of what a modern, personalized, and intuitive reading platform should be.
Role
UX Research UX Designer
Time
March 2025 - April 2025
Tools
Figma
it’s about making ideas happen”
— Scot Belsky
“It’s not about ideas—
What’s The Problem?
Users are frustrated by Goodreads' outdated UI, cluttered experience, and difficulty in discovering new books in a meaningful way. I developed the problem statement by analyzing personal experiences and pain points, reinforced by targeted interviews with readers.
My Solution
Here is a peek to the Figma file of the wireframes, itterations, and final prototype— if you want it. Or, scroll along to see it here!
Research
After conducting interviews and refining my problem statement, I got to work on creating personas and finalizing my objective with this project.
Assumptions
Users are frustrated with the current UI and outdated design.
Users want more control over content and prefer to see only relevant information.
Users struggle to discover new books and need better recommendations.
Many users access the platform primarily through mobile devices.
Objectives
Improve the user experience for Goodreads readers by creating a new platform.
Address the outdated UI and simplify navigation.
Allow users to see only the content they want.
Add features that help users discover books and engage with content more effectively.
Enhance design, performance, and accessibility to create a more intuitive and responsive interface.
Make the platform feel natural, not something users have to get used to.
Use feedback and innovative features to increase user satisfaction and retention
Features
Customization
Personalized Bookshelves
Tags
Bookshelf descriptions
Privacy
Lock shelves
Personal notes
Discovery
“Blind Date With a Book”— books suggested by users saves/ ratings but not revealed until after the user reads bullet points abt it instead of full synopsis
Quiz— answer a few questions abt what you’re in the mood for and get suggestions
Random selection— get a short list of random (but relevant to user) books spanning genres
Design
Sketches. Lofis. Iteration.
To follow up, I would…
conduct research with other, similar apps
build out the prototype more extensively after conducting user testing
explore expansion into an author's space as well as readers