Project overview

ShowApp is a Miami-based pre-seed startup focused on revolutionizing the rewards and cashback experience for users. The company aims to simplify how users earn and redeem cashback by addressing common frustrations like complex systems, slow processes, and receipt challenges.

The goal of this project was to create a seamless and user-friendly app experience that reduces friction, builds trust, and redefines how people interact with cashback programs.

The problem

While users are excited about rewards and cashback programs, they struggle with systems that make earning and redeeming benefits difficult.

Empathizing with users

User research

To better understand the needs and preferences of our target users, we conducted both primary and secondary research.

Launched user surveys and received 53 responses

Competitor analysis of 4 of the main rewards cashback applications.

Reviewed cashback reports and articles

Insights

After analyzing and synthesizing the data, I categorized the findings into four key insights.

1

Difficulty navigating and finding deals.

2

Receipt issues cause frustration and reduce trust.

3

Difficulty tracking points and understanding reward calculations..

4

Lengthy redemption processes.

Ideation

Embracing a "no bad ideas" mindset, we brainstormed a variety of solutions to address our users' needs and insights from different angles. After exploring multiple possibilities, we narrowed them down to three key ideas:

1-Connecting with Plaid

One idea we explored was integrating Plaid to connect users' bank accounts, allowing access to transaction data and enabling cashback when they visited partner businesses. While technically feasible, user research revealed significant concerns about sharing sensitive financial information with a new application.

green iMac computer with a green background showing a screen with a roster of employees.

2- Prepaid cards

We explored issuing virtual prepaid cards through a BaaS provider to seamlessly deliver cashback payments and create a frictionless user experience. While virtual cards were successfully issued in testing environments, the main challenge was technical, as BaaS providers typically require large transaction volumes to operate efficiently.

3- QR code

We explored issuing virtual prepaid cards through a BaaS provider to seamlessly deliver cashback payments and create a frictionless user experience. While virtual cards were successfully issued in testing environments, the main challenge was technical, as BaaS providers typically require large transaction volumes to operate efficiently.

Functionality designs

Low-fi wireframes

After analyzing the challenges and user feedback, I began drafting wireframes to explore different versions of each core functionality. I then created a prototype and presented it to the team, gathering valuable feedback that led to key iterations on features like the chat and user profile.

An AI assistant

Introduced AI assistant to address the challenge of difficulty navigating and finding deals. The assistant simplifies the process by guiding users to relevant rewards and cashback offers, making it easier and faster to discover the best opportunities without frustration.

Real time notifications

Real-time notifications were implemented to keep users informed when they receive cashback and to alert them when their business balance is low. This functionality enhances transparency and ensures users stay updated on their rewards and account status.

Balance and transaction history

Introduced a profile feature that allows users to view their balances, track transaction history, and redeem cashback effortlessly. This functionality simplifies access to rewards and ensures a seamless cashback experience.

Current state

App

Launched in beta in TestFlight

2

Onboarded businesses

25

Beta users

Takeaways & Impact

01 Design library

Created a design library to document the design process, updates, components, and variants, establishing a single source of truth for onboarding and supporting new designers.

02 Developers Figma workshop

Developed and led a "Figma 101" workshop to educate engineers on using Figma effectively, improving collaboration and streamlining the design-to-engineering handoff process.

03 User-centric approach

Always advocate for a user-centered approach, especially in small companies lacking a strong design culture, to ensure user needs remain a priority in decision-making.

04 Stay curious

No matter how senior you are, there's always room to learn and grow. Asking simple or "dumb" questions often leads to uncovering deeper insights and gaining a better understanding.

Cashback AI Assistant