The University of Southampton

Challenge

Applying for a PhD (Postgraduate research degree) is confusing and unclear.

Solution

As part of an alpha project, create and test end-to-end journeys for: • Find an existing PhD programme to apply for • Submit your own PhD project for supervision

What I did

• Collaborated in a multi-disciplinary team to design and work from existing user needs
• Used a defined taxonomy of subjects to create and test a subject index page, an entire subject area with projects and supporting information relevant for all PhD applicants
• Worked within the design team to create an alpha prototype to test journey and iterate content
• Pair writing sessions with academic based SME to refine content to meet user needs
• Translated technical specialist language into plain english to improve UX and comprehension
• Designed content patterns and finalised templates ready for a beta phase across the 27 remaining subject areas
• Researched, designed and tested content on:
  • financial information
  • contacting supervisors
  • how to apply
  • creating a research proposal
  • study support

Content drafting, template design and testing for subject landing page

The impact

At the time of release, no other UK university had clear website journeys for PhD applicants. Information was sparse offline and inconsistent online. This project changed how research degree candidates applied to the university, learned about how to do so and became the first point of call for all staff members working in this area.

This alpha project rolled into beta, live and ongoing iteration.