Assignment One requires you to create a comprehensive 'Design Specification Document' and a User Interface (UI) prototype for a forthcoming mobile application. This project will serve as the basis for Assignment Two. Your task is to design a mobile application that showcases innovation, commercial viability, and addresses a market gap, with a strong emphasis on user interface (UI) and user experience (UX).

Assignment 1 consists of three distinct tasks:

• Task A: Design Specification Document
• Task B: Mobile User Interface Design Prototype
• Task C: Online Peer-Review

Task A: Design Specification Document (1500-2000 words)

In this task, you will develop a comprehensive Design Specification Document that serves as the foundation for the prototype mobile application in Assignment 2. The mobile application should cater to one of the following areas: education, business, industry work-cycle, lifestyle (e.g., fitness, food, travel), gaming or innovation mobile application. If you wish to propose another category, please confirm it with your unit coordinator.

The document should be created in Microsoft Word or a similar tool and have a word count between 1500-2000 words. It must be professionally presented, including a title page with unit code and name, assignment number and title, student name, student number, and due date. The proposal should include document header and footer with page numbers, logical headings, and sub-headings, and includes sections such as :

• Introduction,
• Functional Requirements,
• Navigation Map,
• Prototype User Interface Design (refer to Task B),
• Schedule/Timeline,
• References,
• Appendix (refer to Task C).

Task B: Mobile User Interface Design Prototype

Building upon the information from Task A, you will design and develop a user interface for the mobile application you plan to prototype in Assignment Two. You may use any prototyping tool of your choice, provided that it allows you to share your design online and receive feedback from your peers.

We recommend using Figma for this activity due to its ease of use, accessibility, and built-in collaboration features. If you prefer to use another prototyping tool, please ensure it supports online access and commenting. If you're unsure about your selected tool’s suitability, consult your tutor or Unit Coordinator.

Task C: Online Peer-Review

For the final task, post the link to your mobile user interface design prototype (Task B) using the dedicated forum on the DGTL12008 unit website. This enables peers to review your prototype and leave meaningful feedback. Ensure the link to your prototype is accessible to your classmates

In addition to sharing your prototype, you must write a 150-300-word review for three (3) peers, addressing the following questions:

• Is the mobile app aesthetically pleasing and minimalist?
• Does the mobile app provide a good user experience?
• Does the mobile app offer users control and freedom?
• Are the images, icons, buttons and instructions intuitive?
• Any suggestions for improving the user experience?

To meet the expected level of detail for a future developer, make sure to justify your decisions, follow task guidelines, utilise APA referencing, and carefully proofread your work.

Use of Generative Artificial Intelligence agents (Gen AI)

AI Assessment scale tool: 

Level 1: You must not use Al at any point during the assessment. You must demonstrate your core skills and knowledge. Any misuse or lack of disclosure regarding the use of AI tools will be considered a breach of academic integrity. 

If you are unsure, ask the Unit Coordinator.

Assessment Criteria
Task A : Design specification document (20 marks)

• Title page and introduction
• Platform
• Functional
• Flow chart/ Navigation map
• Application Interface Design
• Timeline
• Referencing

Task B: Mobile User interface design prototypes(12.5 marks)

• Originality
• Completeness (includes all assets ready)
• User experience
• Interface design
• Metaphor design

Task C: Online Peer-Review Adherence to the required discussion topics(7.5 marks)

•  Quality and completeness of task. (ie. 3 online Peer Reviews, 150-300 words each)

Assignment 2 consists of three related tasks:

• Task A: Prototype Mobile Application
• Task B: Audiovisual Promotional package
• Task C: Brand Guidelines and Resources Justification (500-1000 words)

Task A: Prototype Mobile Application

In this task, you will create a prototype for the mobile application you proposed in Assignment 1. The prototype should be innovative, addressing a specific problem or filling a gap in the market. The mobile application should provide tangible benefits to users, such as cost reduction, increased productivity, new income streams, or improved customer service/workflow.

You are required to implement the mobile application using HTML5, CSS, and JavaScript. It is strongly recommended to use tools like IONIC and REACT for development. If you plan to use other tools, you must obtain permission from the tutor and unit coordinator. Please note that 'drag and drop' no-code development tools are not suitable for this assessment. All content and media elements in your prototype must be original.

Your mobile app should include:

• A logical, consistent, and usable navigation system.
• Content that aligns with the purpose of your mobile application.
• Intuitive elements such as menus, buttons, icons and images with a minimalist design aesthetic for clarity.
• An interactive form for user information input.

Ensure that the content, commands, and information layout in your mobile app match the chosen mobile operating system. Design elements, including images, fonts, colours, shapes, and textures, should be consistent with the mobile application theme.

More information about this task can be found on the unit website.

Task B: Audiovisual Promotional package

Your task is to create original graphic assets for your mobile app (icon and splash screen) and produce a promotional video to market it. Please ensure all work is your own, with no AI tools used in its generation.

Graphic Assets:

Mobile Application Icon:

• Design and create an original, visually appealing, and representative application icon for the new mobile application.
• Ensure that the icon is visually consistent with the application's theme, purpose, and target audience.
• Please submit the mobile application icon in PNG or SVG format with dimensions of 1024x1024 pixels. Both Android and iOS platforms require a 1024x1024 PNG file.

Splash Screen:

• Develop an engaging splash screen that effectively introduces the mobile application to users upon launch.
• Incorporate relevant branding elements, captivating visuals, and a clear call-to-action to entice users to explore the application further.
• Please submit the splash screen design in PNG or PSD format with dimensions of 4096x4096 pixels. Both Android and iOS platforms require a 4096x4096 PNG file.

Promotional Video:

• Gather any necessary resources such as images, video clips, or sound effects that align with your video concept.
• Use appropriate video editing software or tools to bring your video concept to life.
• Ensure that your video is engaging and concise, and that it highlights the most important aspects of the mobile application.
• Aim to create a visually appealing and persuasive video that motivates viewers to download and use the mobile application.
• Keep the video duration within 30 seconds, as brevity is essential for capturing and retaining viewers' attention.

Export your completed video in a commonly supported format (e.g., MP4, MOV). Name the video file with your name and the title of the mobile application (e.g., "name_NewMobileAppPromo.mp4"). Ensure that your submission adheres to any specified file size or format requirements.

Guidelines:

Originality and Creativity:

• All graphic assets and the promotional video must be original and created specifically for this assessment task. You are not permitted to use AI tools to generate visual assets.
• Demonstrate creativity in your designs, utilizing appropriate colour schemes, typography, and visual elements.

Visual Consistency:

• Maintain visual consistency throughout all assets, ensuring they align with the application's theme and branding.

Target Audience:

• Consider the target audience of the mobile application and tailor the graphic assets and promotional video to appeal to their interests, needs, and preferences.

Quality and Professionalism:

• Aim for high-quality designs and a professional standard in both graphic assets and the promotional video.

Submission Guidelines:

• Create the mobile application icon, splash screen, and promotional video as separate files and then group into a .zip file.
• Ensure the files are appropriately labeled and compressed (if necessary) to facilitate easy review as the following:
  • lastname_Icon.png
  • lastname_splashScreen.png
  • lastname_NewMobileAppPromo.mp4

Other Requirements and Tips

If licensed music or image is used, evidence of the licensing agreement must be provided.

Plan your production around the needs of a dedicated release platform.

Choose one publishing platform from the list below and optimise your video to meet its specific format requirements. For example, if you select TikTok, your video must adhere to its standard aspect ratio.

• • YouTube
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • TikTok
  • Snapchat
  • Twitter
     

Task C: Brand Guideline and Resources Justification (500-1000 words)

For this task, you'll create a brand guidelines document and justify the resources you used to execute your project. 

Submit your work as a Microsoft Word document, naming it 'Lastname_brandGuideline.docx' (remember to replace 'Lastname' with your surname). 

Brand Guidelines:

Your brand guidelines is a comprehensive document. It provides standard instructions for maintaining a brand's consistent visual and verbal identity across all communication channels and for all stakeholders (including designers, developers, marketers, and external partners). 

Be sure to cover key elements such as: 

• Logos (Main icon for the mobile application)
• Colour schemes 
• Typography 
• Tone of voice 

Resources Justification:

In this section, you will justify your selection and use of all resources employed in your project: 

• Provide a clear rationale for each resource chosen, whether it's software, AI tools, audiovisual equipment, materials, or third-party open-source tools. 
• Explain how each resource contributed to your project's overall success and quality. 
• Highlight any limitations or challenges you faced in acquiring or using specific resources. 

Assignment 2 Presentation and submission

The assignment must be submitted electronically through the unit website. You must submit THREE(3) files to complete this assignment:

• A ZIP file named 'Lastname_mobilePrototype.zip' containing the files in your mobile application (Task A);
• A ZIP file named 'Lastname_audiovisualPromo.zip' containing the files in your audiovisual package such as the following(Task B):
  • lastname_Icon.png
  • lastname_splashScreen.png
  • lastname_NewMobileAppPromo.mp4
• A Microsoft Word document named 'Lastname_brandGuideline.docx' containing your creative statement and resource justification word document(Task C);

To meet the expected level of detail for a future developer, make sure to justify your decisions, follow task guidelines, utilise APA referencing, and carefully proofread your work.

Use of Generative Artificial Intelligence agents (Gen AI)

AI Assessment scale tool: 

Level 3: You may use AI to assist with specific tasks such as assisting with coding/debugging, generating concepts, refining and evaluating your work. You must critically evaluate and modify any AI-generated content you use. Any misuse or lack of disclosure regarding the use of AI tools will be considered a breach of academic integrity. 

If you are unsure, ask the Unit Coordinator.

Conceptualisation (5 marks):

• Clear and well-defined concept for the mobile application prototype.
• Demonstrates a thorough understanding of the problem or gap in the market being addressed.
• Provides a compelling rationale for the mobile app's purpose and target audience.

Functionality (10 marks):

• Mobile application prototype effectively fulfills its intended purpose.
• All key features and functionalities are implemented and functional.
• User interactions and navigation within the prototype are intuitive and seamless.

Creativity and Visual Appeal (20 marks):

• The graphic assets and video demonstrate originality, creativity, and attention to visual aesthetics.
• The application icon and splash screen are visually engaging and align with the overall theme and purpose of the mobile application.
• The graphic assets and video effectively incorporate branding elements, such as logos, colors, and typography, to maintain consistency with the mobile application's identity.
• The promotional video clearly communicates the features and benefits of the mobile application in a concise and engaging manner.
• The video effectively captures the attention of the target audience and encourages them to download and use the application.
• The graphic assets and video demonstrate technical proficiency in terms of resolution, aspect ratio, and file formats suitable for mobile application usage.
• The video is well-edited, with smooth transitions, clear visuals, and appropriate use of sound (music or voiceover).
• Overall Impact -The combined graphic assets and video create a compelling and professional presentation that effectively promotes the new mobile application.

Coding (10 marks):

• Clean, well-structured, and organized code implementation.
• Adherence to coding best practices, including appropriate commenting and documentation.
• Demonstrable understanding of any third-party code snippets that have been incorporated into the mobile app framework.

Innovation (5 marks):

• Demonstrates a creative and innovative approach in addressing the problem or filling the market gap.
• Incorporates novel features, functionalities, or design elements that differentiate the mobile app from existing solutions.
• Shows potential for practical application and commercial viability.

Brand Guidelines and resources justification(10 marks):

Clarity of Brand Guideline:

• Clear, logical layout of brand guideline sections (e.g., logo, color, typography, tone). Professional formatting and headings used appropriately.
• Demonstrates accurate understanding of branding principles. Includes appropriate elements such as logo use, color palette, fonts, and tone of voice.
• Guideline is tailored appropriately to the brand's purpose, audience, and context (e.g., for a mobile app)
• Written in clear, professional, and grammatically correct language. Style matches expectations for an academic or industry-standard document.
• Demonstrates creativity in design choices and thoughtful brand development. Visually appealing layout that supports comprehension.

Justification of Resources:

• The justification of resources demonstrates a thoughtful selection process, considering their relevance to the project's goals.
• Each resource is adequately justified, showcasing its contribution to the success and quality of the project.
• Limitations or challenges in resource acquisition or utilisation are acknowledged and addressed.

This assessment carries a total of 60 marks.