THE BUSINESS
SpaceDEX was a start up defi protocol that aimed to create a cryptocurrency decentralized exchange. In preparation to raise capital from potential investors, we were tasked to provide a complete website and afterwards an alpha version of a UI/UX design solution - from illustration, icons and a full set of components that devs can use to execute the design.
THE PROBLEM
The financial tools in the defi space were fragmented and the overall general defi branding didn't help in general adoption even among web3 natives . SpaceDex wanted to create a single platform where customers can conduct all their defi activities. They also aimed to provide innovative products that unified liquidity pools across the defi space. At the time, there were no existing products in the space that provided this that we could refer to.
THE SOLUTION
We observed the best and easy to use existing swaps, fiat-on-ramp, farming and staking platforms in the space. In collaboration with the web3 devs, we created a ui/ux design that puts them altogether. Because SpaceDEX was bringing new innovation to the space, we for-go the quirky tendencies of defi brands that gravitate towards imagery of food or animals, to signify the ushering in of a new mature defi era.
We first focused on creating the landing pages of the website to introduce the project concept of SpaceDEX. This was worked on to establish the brand and provide a professional front to show investors.
Once the project secured initial funding, we started the product design process with semi-detailed UX wireframes to get a feel of the user experience. Once approved internally, We created the high-fidelity UI design and together with web3 devs built the alpha version and released it to SpaceDEX's community members.
Custom icons and illustrations were created to bring to life visual represtantions of the defi features and expand the SpaceDEX theme. A ui design system & library was also created to maintain conistency across the platform.
Unfortunately, after the alpha version was released, not long after the project was halted. The project experienced problems in the higher management level and due to mistakes in investment decisions, the project couldn't continue development.
I've learned a lot from the experience, especially working in a team with web3 devs and how to streamline the production process so that everyone is always in sync and up to date with the design developments. The project also provided a good insight behind the curtains of building a product from a business perspective.
