Silo
reimagining google reviews
Overview
Reimagining reviews as a timeline of experiences.
Silo transforms Google Reviews into a timeline-focused experience that prioritizes personal stories and emotions over map-based interactions. By simplifying the interface and introducing unique interaction points, Silo redefines how users share and engage with reviews.
My process.
Understanding the Problem
Goal: Shift focus from ratings to meaningful, story-driven reviews.
Approach: Replace static map-based systems with dynamic, timeline-centered interactions.
Design Exploration
My initial sketches focused on creating a visual framework for storytelling and emotional connection. I experimented with soft shapes, gradients, and a timeline flow using Figma to prototype layouts and interactions.
Iterative Refinement
I continuously addressed and refined overcomplicated layouts and chaotic visuals in early designs by trying to simplify forms and interactions to realign with the app’s storytelling purpose.
Challenges
Overcomplicating the details.
In later versions, I got caught up in the finer details and lost sight of the app’s visual identity. The colors and layouts became chaotic, straying from my initial vision. This misstep helped me realize the need to step back and refocus.
Refocusing on the basics
Returning to fundamentals, I prioritized forms, visual language, and clean layout blocks. Simplifying these elements allowed me to realign the design with my initial goals of storytelling and user-friendly interactions.
Refining the design.
After creating the foundational elements, I transitioned from Figma to Illustrator and After Effects for higher fidelity visuals and prototyping. This stage gave me full control over the refined interactions and animations that bring Silo to life.
Key Changes Made:
1. Removed the “Add a Photo” feature after testing with users and determining it distracted from the core storytelling focus.
2. Focused on creating seamless, intuitive flows that emphasize the review-writing experience over static features.
Reflecting
Possible next steps.
I’m continuing to refine Silo by testing new interactive elements and fine-tuning the timeline flow. My goal is to make the app feel like a personal journal of experiences, leaving users with a sense of connection to their shared stories