Matchamate
Matchamate
For over 2 months, our team developed "MatchaMate," an online community app tailored for matcha enthusiasts. The project involved extensive research on user needs and preferences within the matcha community. We also conducted an analysis of existing online communities to identify a niche that was not yet addressed, discovering the lack of a dedicated platform for matcha lovers. Our goal was to create a vibrant, engaging platform where users could share their passion for matcha, exchange tips, and build lasting friendships around their shared interest.
At-a-glance
Timeline
Two Months
My Role
UX Design and Research
Problem
Despite the growing popularity of matcha, there is a significant gap in the market for a dedicated platform that caters specifically to matcha enthusiasts. Matcha comes in various grades and forms, from culinary to ceremonial, making it confusing for newcomers to understand and select the right product. Additionally, many people struggle to find reliable information on how to prepare and enjoy matcha properly. Finding cafes that serve high-quality matcha is another challenge, as options can be limited and inconsistent. This lack of a centralized resource makes it difficult for matcha lovers to fully explore and enjoy their passion.
solution
To address these challenges, we designed "MatchaMate," an app that creates connections among matcha lovers. Our platform offers a variety of features tailored to the needs of matcha enthusiasts. Users can participate in forums to discuss all things matcha, share and discover new recipes, and use the cafe search feature to find local spots serving high-quality matcha. Additionally, the app includes an educational feature where users can find and learn about a wide range of matcha-related products and tips. By providing these resources, "Matcha Mate" aims to simplify the matcha experience, making it more accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
elevator pitch
Introducing MatchaMate, the ultimate online hub for all matcha lovers, from casual enjoyers to passionate enthusiasts! MatchaMate offers an interactive map where users can easily locate nearby cafes serving matcha drinks, complete with allergen and accessibility icons and community reviews with a five-star rating system. Our blog space, “Learn More About Matcha,” provides rich, informative content on various matcha-related topics. Additionally, our “Chat Forums” feature enables users to engage in lively discussions, ask questions, and share insights. Operating as a non-profit, MatchaMate is dedicated to creating “flexible and extensible gathering places” for everyone to share, explore, and learn more about matcha! Join us and immerse yourself in the vibrant world of matcha today!
User scenarios
the matcha enthusiast
Emma discovers MatchaMate while searching for a platform dedicated to her favorite beverage. She desires a space to connect with fellow enthusiasts and share her experiences. Eager to delve deeper into matcha culture, Emma signs up, exploring the community's diverse features. She uses MatchaMate to explore new cafes, discover new matcha recipes, and contributes her own review of a local café's matcha latte. Emma feels thrilled to connect with like-minded individuals, learning about different matcha variations and exploring recommended spots globally. MatchaMate becomes her go-to hub, satisfying her passion for matcha and fostering connections with fellow matcha-lovers.
Leo, a graduate student at the University of Michigan, stumbles upon MatchaMate through a friend's recommendation. Seeking a cozy spot to study and unwind, he seeks a guide to Ann Arbor's matcha scene. Intrigued, Leo joins the platform to explore local cafes offering quality matcha drinks near campus. He finds reviews, insider tips, and discussions on the best spots for students to grab a matcha latte while studying. Leo engages in the community, sharing his experiences and discovering hidden gems beyond campus. MatchaMate becomes his ultimate resource, aiding his exploration of matcha and enhancing his college experience in Ann Arbor.
A graduate’s journey
competitive analysis
design
Interactive Map and Icons
MatchaMate’s interactive map allows users to input their location and discover nearby cafes that offer matcha drinks. Each tagged location on the map includes icons indicating allergen and accessibility features, ensuring that users can find suitable venues that meet their dietary and mobility needs. The map also features community reviews with a five-star rating system, providing insights from fellow matcha enthusiasts.
Blog Space - "Learn More About Matcha"
Our dedicated blog space is designed to educate users on a wide range of matcha-related topics. This section offers articles, guides, and tips to enhance users' knowledge and appreciation of matcha.
Chat Forums
The chat forums are structured into multiple threads, allowing users to dive into specific discussion topics. This section facilitates questions and answers among users, promoting a collaborative and engaging community environment.
Moderation
Ensuring a Safe and Respectful Community
To maintain a positive and respectful atmosphere, MatchaMate employs a team of moderators who oversee interactions and content. These moderators ensure that discussions remain friendly and on-topic, and they address any issues of inappropriate behavior promptly.
Encouraging User Participation
Milestone Badges
To incentivize engagement, MatchaMate features milestone badges awarded to users for achieving specific levels of activity (Figure 1). For example:
Matcha Master Badge Awarded when a user saves 50 recipes.
Friendly Badge Earned by commenting on 25 posts.
These badges are prominently displayed on users' profile pages, encouraging more interaction and showcasing active community members. This gamification element helps create “meaningful and evolving member profiles,” enhancing the user experience and fostering a vibrant community.
prototype
User Onboarding 1
User Onboarding 2
Homepage/Explore
Explore (1)
Education (2)
Discussion
Education (1)
Explore (2)
User Profile
design system
Non-Profit Model
Dedicated to the Community Operating as a non-profit, MatchaMate's sole purpose is to provide a platform for sharing, exploring, and learning about matcha. Our mission is to create an inclusive and supportive space for all matcha lovers, ensuring that the community continues to grow and thrive.
what i learned
Creating MatchaMate taught me a lot about putting users first and tackling technical challenges like building an interactive map with allergen and accessibility info. We discovered how rewarding user participation with badges can boost community engagement and the importance of good moderation to keep the platform friendly and on-topic. We also learned how crucial it is to offer valuable, interesting content and to stay true to our mission as a non-profit, focused on serving our matcha-loving community.