Based on 12 research papers
Who is the user?
Financially dependent women emerge as the central figures deeply affected by the multifaceted challenges explored in this study. It delves into the intricate dynamics of financial dependency in adulthood, unveiling a spectrum of consequences beyond immediate financial concerns.
For these women, avoidance of tasks, a proclivity towards pleasure-seeking, and the gradual erosion of self-worth become enduring aspects of their experiences. The partner effects further underscore the intricate interplay within relationships, with financial strain negatively influencing overall relationship satisfaction and altering expectations regarding household responsibilities. The implications are profound, with these women navigating not only the challenges of financial dependence but also grappling with the hurdles of securing interviews and re-establishing themselves professionally.
How big is the problem?
Over 35% of married women (approximately 24 million) in the United States are financially dependent on their partners and face numerous challenges in their day-to-day lives. For those who have children, this number increases to around 44%.
24 million
dependent women in the US are financially dependent on their partner
1/3
Partnered women are entirely financially dependent on partner
1/2
partnered women with children are entirely financially dependent on partner
Why is it important?
Long-term effects
Lack of interest
Pleasure seeking
Feeling not worthy
The long-term effects is a spectrum of behavioral and psychological shifts. Individuals often exhibit a lack of interest in undertaking tasks which fosters a tendency towards pleasure-seeking, and over time, the pervasive feeling of not being worthy or capable of self-sufficiency takes root, gradually influencing their mindset and contributing to a cycle of dependence.
Partner effects
Fragile financial state
Unhealthy Expectation
Low Relationship satisfaction
The partner effects reveal a complex interplay within relationships. When one partner assumes the primary earning role, expectations may emerge, with the earning partner anticipating a larger contribution to household responsibilities as a demonstration of commitment to the relationship.The fragility of relying solely on one person's income becomes evident, underscoring the need for a balanced and sustainable financial approach within relationships to foster mutual satisfaction and stability.
The primary UX research process involved a systematic approach of gathering qualitative and quantitative data by filtering users through surveys, conducting interviews and creating debriefs. This holistic approach enabled a comprehensive understanding of user needs and behaviors, driving informed design decisions.
Methodology
User interviews
Recruiting strategy
Screening survey
Recruiting method
Social media platforms, banners at tabling events, connections and word of mouth
Script
Open-ended high value questions with follow-ups
Objectives
The research focuses on investigating the causes underpinning financial dependency, understanding the associated difficulties they face both in day to day life and other general aspects, their motivations for achieving financial independence, a few of the strategies they might have already employed and tested, and the role of partners in this pursuit of achieving the desired state.
The synthesis process involved combining affinity mapping, problem tree analysis, and mind mapping techniques, effectively organizing and deriving meaning from the collected data. This approach aided in identifying patterns, connections, and insights for informed design decisions.
Affinity mapping
Affinity mapping was an invaluable tool that played a crucial role in organizing and synthesizing the data gathered in the interviews. Each debrief was broken down into separate sticky notes, summarized, and color-coded for each participant. This made it easier to analyze, categorize, and understand the information, resulting in the formation of themes, patterns, and insights.
Mind mapping
Building upon the insights gained from affinity mapping, mind mapping was done to delve deeper into the major thematic groups formed. Within each of these distinct clusters, mind mapping provided a dynamic visual representation, connecting individual points back to the central concept. This approach allowed for exploring the connections within the major groups, enhancing the depth of analysis.
Problem-tree analysis
To understand the root cause of the problem, Problem Tree Analysis was used to unravel financial dependency and its associated challenges. Much like the branches of a tree, this visual method allowed for a systematic exploration of the different aspects contributing to the problem. The branches extended into major categories while further branching out into specific effects within each category. The roots of the problem tree delved into the underlying reasons, providing an understanding of the root causes of financial dependency.
Other mind maps
Subsequently, each debrief was broken down into separate sticky notes, summarized, and color-coded for each participant. This made it easier to analyze and understand the information.
Recruiting strategy
The recruiting strategy for this UX case study precisely targets individuals in relationships facing financial dependency due to unemployment, inclusively encompassing those who lost jobs, students, and dependent visa holders with EAD, while deliberately excluding those without EAD status.
Targeted users
Individuals in a relationship who are unemployed and are dependent on their partners for their financial needs.
Inclusion:
- Individuals who have lost their jobs or left jobs for various reasons and are dependent on their partners
- Individuals who were unemployed for at least a year in the past and were dependent on their partners
- Students who are dependent on their partners financially
- Dependent visa holders who have EAD but are still unemployed
Exclusion:
Dependent visa holders who do not have EAD
Recruiting methods
The UX case study employed diverse recruiting methods - WhatsApp, LinkedIn, surveys, and in-person connections - to gather a comprehensive spectrum of insights from varied participant perspectives.
Whatsapp
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LinkedIn
Survey
In-person
Interview script
25 open-ended questions
The interview script is thoughtfully designed in line with the above mentioned objectives, to extract profound insights from users, providing a comprehensive understanding of their experiences, challenges, and aspirations. They offer invaluable firsthand narratives that enrich the primary research process.
- Knowing the user
- Challenges they face
- Solutions they have tried
- Challenges in becoming independent
- Role of partner
Survey results
48 responses
A carefully designed survey was conducted to meticulously screen potential interview participants, ensuring alignment with the predefined eligibility criteria of financial dependency, relationship status, and unemployment.
Participants
12 users
The participants who met the specified eligibility criteria were thoughtfully selected for interviews, forming a cohesive group for in-depth exploration.
Interviews
12 users
Interviews were conducted lasting a minimum of 30 minutes each, with comprehensive notes diligently taken to capture essential insights and key observations.
Debriefs
12 users
The interview transcripts were skillfully distilled into comprehensive debriefs, encompassing vital points, participant statements, and noteworthy quotes, fostering a condensed yet insightful overview.
Separation
Subsequently, each debrief was broken down into separate sticky notes, summarized, and color-coded for each participant. This made it easier to analyze and understand the information.
Problem statement
Goals \ Needs\ Challenges \ How big? \ Why is it important? \ Existing solutions have failed?
Over 35% of married women (approximately 24 million) in the United States are financially dependent on their partners and face numerous challenges in their day-to-day life. For those who have children, this number increases to around 44%.
Though they don't face any financial challenges since their partners are supportive, they are subject to a range of restrictions as they must rely on them for every financial transaction and can’t get their own credit card. This creates a lack of freedom when making decisions regarding their expenditure, leading them to plan all expenses carefully and exercise caution while purchasing personal items. They are unable even to gift as they do not have their own funds. Additionally, the single source of income creates a burden on their partner, leading to financial expectations, pressure to provide, and work-life imbalance.
While obtaining a job is a plausible solution that could effectively address the issues at hand, there are various challenges in the job search process that arise from the career gap, hindering individuals from securing job interviews to performing well in them. There’s a lack of confidence since they must compete with the recent graduates and are not sure how to justify their break. Additionally, being away from their careers for an extended period presents difficulties in relearning basic skills, staying consistent with preparation, and a lack of networking opportunities and knowledge of current trends.
Unfortunately, the existing solutions have proven ineffective as they are too generic and don’t focus on career break re-entry. They fail to address the specific needs of dependent women, such as competition from new graduates and the lack of guidance on how to showcase their transferable skills, ultimately ineffective in securing any interviews. Therefore, an innovative approach is required to increase their chances of getting an interview and a comprehensive solution to help them acquire the necessary skills, gain confidence and show their potential, resulting in their successful return to the workforce.
Causes
Lack of interest
Health issues
Partner’s work location change
Pregnancy/ Child
The identified causes for the situation of financial dependency exclusively comprised non-actionable factors. These included visa restrictions, such as moving to the US on a partner's visa as a dependent, health issues affecting oneself or family members, changes in a partner's job location, and the temporary discontinuation of work due to pregnancy or childbirth.
Effects
I was very independent in India, I was not used to that dependency.
But due to the work permit issue, I didn't have any option.
I would say that if I have financial independence, I have more freedom.
I think to certain degree it probably affects feeling of
equality because I used to have a job and would contribute.
Uncomfortable being reliant
It's very annoying to ask something every time.
The consequences of financial dependency significantly impact individuals emotionally and financially. The sense of lack of freedom often accompanies financial reliance, as individuals find themselves constrained in their decision-making and lifestyle choices. The feeling of helplessness emerges as a prominent emotional effect, amplifying the vulnerability associated with dependence. Moreover, financial dependency can introduce a subtle but impactful sense of inequality within couples, potentially influencing power dynamics and straining relationships.
Roadblocks
Individuals need to re-learn basics, a process that can be time-consuming and requires a substantial investment of effort. Securing interviews becomes a formidable hurdle due to intense competition with new graduates, a lack of networking opportunities, and limited job openings often constrained by factors such as location and work type. Subsequently, facing interviews poses its own set of challenges, encompassing issues of confidence, a knowledge gap on current industry trends, and not knowing how to justify the career break. Time constraints emerge as a critical barrier, with household responsibilities and childcare demanding substantial attention. Additionally, job constraints, such as the preference for remote work and inflexible location requirements, further narrow down available opportunities.
9/12
Users mentioned that the gap in career is affecting the most in job search
They will consider because of this career gap, she's not able to do this.
There's that gap, and they're like, uhhhh it's almost like they better hire a new grad. Just because everything is fresh in their mind.
The most challenging thing is gap. It's been three years, so people will ask why three years? And what you did in these three years?
My gap is the most hindrance I can say. I should be able to give the justice for these two years gap right? So I should align accordingly.
Delving deeper into the root cause of these roadblocks, a prominent factor emerges—the gap in career or career break. This break influences both the opportunities to secure interviews and the ability to navigate them effectively. Addressing and bridging the effects of the career gap becomes a focal point, aiming to develop targeted strategies to enhance interview opportunities and boost confidence in addressing the unique challenges associated with career breaks.
Strengths
- PathForward specializes in returnship programs, catering specifically to professionals looking to re-enter the workforce after a career break.
- They have a vast user base, providing a wide range of high-quality job opportunities for job seekers.
- Operates globally, offering opportunities not only locally but also internationally.
Weakness
- Limited positions might lead to intense competition among applicants for available opportunities.
- The focus on certain industries may limit career options for individuals seeking to re-enter in other sectors.
- The platforms may not offer tailored resources or support for individuals returning to work after a break.
Opportunities
- Expanding partnerships with a wider range of companies to offer diverse returnship opportunities in various sectors.
- Expanding into a wider range of industries can attract a more diverse user base.
- Expand resources for skill development, especially for those who need to catch up on industry changes.
Threats
- Faces competition from larger job portals, which cater to a broader audience, potentially drawing away users.
- If the offered skills training doesn't align with the evolving needs of the job market, candidates might find it difficult to secure employment, leading to dissatisfaction and negative reviews.
How might we reduce the effects of career gap in job search and interviews amongst financially dependent individuals?
Storyboarding played a crucial role in the initial stage of product design process by visually illustrating the user’s journey through a series of sketches or images helping us understand the user interactions, pain points, and opportunities for improvement.
The MoSCoW method was used for identifying and scoping down the features of the product by categorizing into 'Must have', 'Should have', 'Could have', and 'Won't have'. This systematic approach enabled a clear distinction between essential elements crucial for the app's functionality and those that could be incorporated at a later stage.
Create profile
Program search
Create profile
Update certificates
The sitemap serves as the visual representation of the website's structure, outlining the hierarchical arrangement of pages and their interconnections. It provides a comprehensive overview of the site's architecture, aiding in the planning and organization of content for optimal user navigation and experience.
As an essential step in the design process, wireframing allowed me to create a blueprint of the application's layout, hierarchy, and navigation. By starting with simple wireframes, I was able to focus on the core functionality and structure of the application without being distracted by aesthetics. This process enabled me to iterate quickly and efficiently, experimenting with different layout options and refining the user flow.
Job seeker application
Onboarding
The onboarding screen is aimed to give a brief overview of the process involved within the website and how the program works. The 3 simple steps are intended to portray the ease of the process and create a sense of hope in the users.
Profile creation
Users can create their profile by providing their basic information, background details like education, experience, skills, etc. along with their certifications.
Certificate evaluation
These certifications can later be evaluated and matched with the eligibility criteria of the programs.
Search results
The search results offer users a diverse array of program postings, each accompanied by a set of helpful filters for further refinement. Users can tailor their search by parameters such as date posted, work type, job type, experience level, location, number of certifications required, pay, background job level, and more.
Dashboard
The dashboard provides users with an overview of the registered and completed programs, within which they can find complete details of the same. They can further evaluate their completed certifications from the dashboard.
Employer application
For the employer side of the application, certain screens remain consistent, such as the login screens and profile creation, with the potential for variations in branding to align with the specific needs and identity of employers. Below are a few of the screens designed based on the unique functionality required.
Dashboard
The dashboard provides users with an overview of the registered and completed programs, within which they can find complete details of the same. They can also find the qualified candidates and their response to the employer specific questions along with the certifications completed for fulfilling the eligibility criteria.
Post a program
Recruiters can post a program along with its deadline and other details like program overview, eligibility criteria, job description, required qualifications, benefits and compensation. Then can add few specific questions to get details from the candidate.
Posting a program involves a significant step of selecting eligibility criteria, where users can add multiple certification requirements. They can choose from the categories and filters available on the partner website, and this information is displayed in a clear card format on our platform.
Crafting a mood board is an artful step that weaves together visual elements to evoke specific emotions and connections. Our palette draws inspiration from the psychology of color. Together, these colors not only capture attention but also resonate with the emotional undertones of ambition, clarity, and security.
The hue of purple, symbolizing ambition and wisdom, invokes a sense of purpose and foresight in their journey.
Turquoise, with its calming embrace, promises clarity amidst the complexity, offering users a serene navigation through the job search process.
Light brown, a grounding force, wraps the design in an aura of security and stability, ensuring that users feel anchored in their skills and knowledge.
High-fidelity designs play a crucial role in the development of user-friendly and visually appealing applications. The prototype has 2 sides to it: Job seeker and Employer. The crucial steps involved for job seekers are the profile creation, updating certificates, evaluating certificates, registering for programs, and the dashboard.
Onboarding
The onboarding screen gives a brief overview of the process involved within the website and how the program works. The 3 simple steps also portray the ease of the process and are aimed at creating a sense of hope in the users.
Homepage
The homepage is designed with a primary focus on a singular, yet crucial functionality—search. This intentional simplicity directs all user interactions to a centralized space, emphasizing the efficiency of the search feature.
Search results
Dashboard
The dashboard provides users with an overview of the registered and completed programs, within which they can find complete details of the same.
Upon successful completion of all required certifications, and meeting the eligibility criteria, users receive a notification confirming that the company has been informed. It assures them that the company will reach out after the specified deadline, marking a clear acknowledgment of their efforts and accomplishment.
Dashboard
The dashboard provides users with an overview of the registered and completed programs, within which they can find complete details of the same.
Qualified candidates
The qualified candidates and their contact information can be seen within the program with an option to export the same.
Qualified candidate details
The testing phase involved five participants, with each performing 5 major tasks. In a systematic approach, their insights, challenges, and observations were meticulously documented across six distinct categories of sticky notes (General feedback, positive thoughts, critical feedback, major blockers, new ideas, and updates for the prototype).
Task analysis
Delighters
- Users found the platform easy to follow and navigate finding it familiar and akin to other job search platforms, which enhanced their understanding of the overall process.
- The platform was perceived as trustworthy, with users expressing confidence due to the inclusion of certifications from reputable sources like Udemy and Coursera.
- The clear definition of required certification categories and the availability of multiple options within each category were deemed helpful and appreciated by users, contributing to ease of use and decision-making.
Qualitative Insights
High impact findings
High-impact findings included both a frequency of 4-5 and 2-3 users feedback. Only these were implemented in the first iteration as a priority.
Impact-Severity matrix
Net promoter score
80
The Net Promoter Score (NPS) is a widely recognized metric that assesses the likelihood of customers recommending a product or service to others. This score is derived from a simple survey question: "How likely are you to recommend our product/service to a friend or colleague?" Respondents typically provide a rating on a scale from 0 to 10.
