Designer language – research
UX Case Study
Author: Sabrina Papeau
Introduction
We reevaluated the company's goals and sought to explore opportunities to improve user engagement with streaming content. We identified a challenge that we thought was worth exploring: “Improving the music discovery experience for Spotify users. "
To address this challenge, we and the UX research team collected data and conducted user interviews.
Spotify, one of the leading music streaming services, is constantly looking to improve its users' experience. With millions of tracks available, it's crucial to help users efficiently discover music that matches their preferences. This case study focuses on improving the music discovery experience for Spotify users, particularly through the journey of an individual named Alex.
Why is Alex our Persona?
Alex is a college student from Seattle, WA. He studies in a dorm and needs to find music that helps him concentrate while studying. He likes music but finds lyrics distracting and has recently started using noise-cancelling headphones.
A list of improvement opportunities:
Develop an advanced recommendation algorithm that takes into account Alex's preferences, such as instrumental tracks or genres known for their calming effect. By analyzing their listening history, Spotify can suggest personalized playlists or songs that match their study preferences.
Introduce a feature that allows users to filter songs with lyrics, catering to Alex's preference for instrumental music. This option is easily accessible in the app settings or as a filter in search results, allowing Alex to discover music that matches his study environment.
Implement a dedicated “Focus Mode” feature designed specifically for users like Alex who want to improve their concentration while listening to music. This mode could create playlists or recommend tracks optimized for focus and productivity, incorporating genres known to increase concentration levels.
Work with headphone manufacturers to integrate the Spotify platform into noise-cancelling headphones. This integration could enable seamless control of Spotify's playback features directly from the headset interface, improving Alex's user experience and convenience.
Feature AI-generated ambient music tracks designed to promote focus and relaxation. Using machine learning algorithms, Spotify can create personalized ambient soundscapes tailored to Alex's preferences, helping him stay focused during study sessions.
Allows the creation of collaborative playlists between roommates or study groups. This feature would allow Alex to discover new music recommendations from his social circle, thereby fostering a sense of community and shared musical exploration in his academic environment.
Improve search functionality by introducing advanced filters that respond to specific user preferences, such as mood, tempo, or instrumental or lyrical content. By allowing users to refine their search criteria, Spotify can help Alex discover the perfect music for his study needs.
Present a carefully curated and regularly updated “Weekly Study Mix” playlist with tracks ideal for focus and concentration. By leveraging user feedback and listening habits, Spotify can continually refine and personalize this playlist to provide personalized recommendations for Alex's study sessions.
Provide curated genre recommendations based on Alex's study habits and preferences. By analyzing his listening behavior and study habits, Spotify can suggest genres known to have a positive effect on concentration, helping Alex explore new musical styles tailored to his needs.
Optimize the offline listening experience for users like Alex who may rely on Spotify during study sessions in locations with limited internet connectivity. By prioritizing offline downloads of selected instrumental tracks or study playlists, Spotify can ensure uninterrupted access to the music essential for concentration.
Sketch:
- Lyrics Filter Feature: Settings screen with a toggle for “Filter Songs with Lyrics”.
- Focus Mode: Main screen featuring a “Focus Mode” button and playlists optimized for focus.
- Integration with Noise-Cancelling Headphones: Headphones with integrated Spotify controls for seamless playback.
- AI-Generated Ambient Music Tracks: Section dedicated to AI-generated ambient tracks for focus and relaxation.
- Collaborative Playlists: Shared playlist screen with invite and collaborator options for Alex and his roommates.
- Advanced Search Filters: Search screen featuring advanced filters for mood, tempo, and instrumental or lyrical content.
- Weekly Study Mix Playlist: A screen showing a personalized “Weekly Study Mix” playlist.
- Curated Genre Recommendations: Recommendation screen providing genre suggestions based on Alex’s study habits.
Decide: Choose the Idea to Elaborate
Chosen Idea: Instant Playlist Generator
- Reason for Choosing This Idea:
- Originality: The idea of generating instant playlists based on genres and selected artists is unique and not commonly found in other music streaming services.
- Exploration: It is ideal for users who want to explore new genres and discover new artists while combining them with their favorite music.
- User Engagement: This feature can increase user engagement by providing a new way to discover music, making the listening experience more dynamic and personalized.
Detailed Description of the Chosen Solution
Feature: Filter by Genre and Artist
- Introduction of the Feature:
- Name: Instant
- Meaning: An “instant” is an infinitesimal space of time. This captures the essence of quickly generating a new playlist.
- User Flow:
- Step 1: The option is displayed at the end of the navbar in the Spotify app.
- Step 2: When selected, a list of genres and moods is displayed.
- Step 3: After choosing a genre or mood, a selection of artists is displayed. Users can choose as many artists as they want.
- Step 4: Based on the selected genre and artists, a new playlist is generated instantly.
- Step 5: Users can generate as many “Instant” playlists as they want. If they like a playlist, they can save it for later.
