Loupe

Loupe is a platform designed for gathering structured feedback from colleagues and outside advisors. The platform started with a prototype and initial user research insights. The challenge presented to the product team was to develop a more robust platform that would not only attract users but also keep them coming back. The success of this project was crucial for validating Loupe's business model.
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In response, I was engaged to oversee the design and development for the next iteration of the platform, with a focus on improving the returning user experience and expanding its capabilities to support multiple pilots.

Key Objectives:

• Create a more robust and engaging Loupe platform
• Improve the returning user experience.
• Support multiple upcoming pilots, including a Masters Leadership Coaching cohort at NYU.
• Utilize low-code tools and custom engineering to expand the platform's capabilities.
• Secure additional funding and validation for the business model.

Approach:

1. Initial Assessment and Planning:

• Conducted a thorough review of Loupe's existing prototype and user research insights.
• Identified the need for a stronger focus on the returning user experience and scalability.
• Developed a clear product roadmap with key milestones and features to achieve the desired outcomes.

2. User-Centered Design and Prototyping:

• Collaborated with the Loupe team to diagram strategically-determined use cases.
• Held daily team meetings to review and refine prototypes.
• Conducted workshops to address complex goals and gather feedback from stakeholders.
• Prioritized UX and UI design to enhance the overall user experience.

3. Development and Testing:

• Executed design and development sprints to build the enhanced platform.
• Utilized technologies such as Figma, Mural, and Google Workspace to collaborate with the team.
• Conducted regular QA testing to ensure the platform's stability and quality.
• Implemented feedback from testing sessions into the final product.
• Leveraged low-code tools, including WebFlow, SendGrid, AirTable, and AWS Lambda, to expand the platform's capabilities.
• Managed custom engineering work to address specific requirements and user needs.

“We were able to get so much work done b/c of the communication strategies Chris employed. He is patient, thoughtful, organized, proactive, thorough, and takes on client challenges like they are his own. My team felt Chris's deep investment and commitment, his passion and talent, throughout our work together. I still miss working with him.” — Mara Gerstein, Loupe Founder

Results:

This case study demonstrates how a structured approach to product development, user-centered design, and effective use of technology can lead to a successful product that meets business goals and secures necessary funding and validation.

The collaborative efforts of the product team and the Loupe team resulted in a successful product that met the objectives set at the beginning of the project:

• The Loupe platform was re-envisioned, focusing on the returning user experience and scalability.
• A next-generation MVP was built, incorporating low-code tools and custom engineering work to expand capabilities.
• The project's success raised a additional rounds of funding, indicating investor confidence in the business model.
• The platform was well-received, with positive feedback leading to high user engagement and retention.