A social media app for a closed community of premium users

Victoria is a platform that offers eclectic individuals a network of like-minded people. The company made headlines during the advent of the pandemic, when they pivoted to a fully virtual platform and gave people a way to connect with others while stuck at home.

Our process began with investigative workshops, where we collaborated on the ideal user experience across both the mobile app and website. Our top priority was to maximize user retention and boost usability through advanced, highly-optimized UX/UI solutions. We analyzed and research the platform's both visually and internally.

Once we had these answers, we transitioned into the design phase. Victoria was undergoing a complete rebrand and the new UX had to align with their changing audience demographics. This entailed continual updates of the UX to meet this new target user base, as well as optimizing Victoria for the app store.

One of the two core features of the app, the Discover tab helps Victoria members connect using algorithm-based suggestions. We collaborated with Victoria on the optimal UI and UX by analyzing common benefits and drawbacks of modern membership-based community apps. Our goal was to help members connect and build a network in a natural, cohesive way.

When it comes to new users applying for the Victoria community, a smooth onboarding process is critical. Just one error or inconvenience (let alone confusion) can dissuade a user from following through with their application. In which case, we designed the UX in the spirit of simplicity, working to ensure seamless onboarding from applicant to Victoria member.

To ensure genuine connection between members, we worked with Victoria to create extended profiles. This gave users more room to show off their personality and creativity — which is one of the core tenets of Victoria’s platform: real, honest connections.

With community-driven apps, word of mouth is arguably the most powerful marketing tool. To ensure that members could seamlessly bring new users to the community, we created a feature which allows current Victoria members to suggest their friends to submit an application. Additionally, we created in-app currency that rewards existing users for these referrals. This fueled new member acquisitions and created positive user experiences.

Members are notified immediately when they connect with another user or when they receive a message. This allows for quick engagement between members and helps foster connection. Notifications also serve a useful purpose for the Victoria team. They can use notifications to inform members about upcoming events, thus increasing overall engagement with the app.

Seeking to create user immersion, where a potential member will not only download but use the Victoria app, we created a mandatory subscription feature that prompts users to move all the way down the sales funnel in order to gain access to the app. This includes paying for premium membership to access the Victoria community.