dayanagt.ux@gmail.com
UT at Austin:
Website for VQOL Program
VQOL (Virtual Quantum Optics Laboratory) is a browser-based quantum physics simulation tool designed to make advanced quantum optics concepts accessible anywhere in the world. Prior to this project, VQOL did not have a traditional website—only a standalone simulation page with basic documentation and a feedback form. The goal of this project was to transform VQOL into a welcoming, educational platform that supports students, educators, and researchers while providing a clear, frictionless entry point into the simulation tool.
My Roles:
UX/UI Design
Content Strategy
Visual Design Direction
Product Owner
Case Study Sections:
Defining the Problem
The Design Process
Journey Map
Wireframes
Results
Next Steps
Defining the Problem
VQOL lacked a true website, limiting discoverability and approachability.
New users had no clear onboarding or explanation of the simulation’s purpose or value.
Educational content and documentation were disconnected from the tool itself.
The experience was functional but not inviting, making it difficult for non-expert users to engage.
Guiding principles:
01
Quality over quantity
Merge thin content into comprehensive resources.
Focus on exploration
Treat content as a living system that users can anticipate and explore.
02
03
Limit Navigation Paths
Avoid overwhelming users with too many navigation paths at once.
Content Audit
Because VQOL had minimal existing content, the audit focused on:
Identifying what already existed (simulation, documentation, feedback).
Evaluating what content was missing for first-time and non-expert users.
Determining how existing documentation could be reframed as learning material.
The Design Process
The goal was to find a balance between:
User goals
Understanding quantum concepts and how to use the tool.
Business goals
Encouraging tool usage, sign-ins, and feedback.
Landing Page Structure:
Hero Section: Clear, benefit-driven headline and primary CTA (“Launch the Tool”).
Value Propositions: Interactive learning, research readiness, accessibility, and collaboration.
Tool Preview: Visual snapshot or animation of the simulation in action.
How It Works: Simple step-by-step explanation.
Testimonials / Use Cases: Educator and student perspectives.
Get Involved: Invitation to contribute feedback or participate in development.
Journey Map
Results
The final designs present VQOL as a cohesive, professional educational platform—one that lowers the barrier to entry for complex subject matter while preserving the depth required by advanced users. By pairing strong information architecture with an inviting visual system, the redesigned experience supports learning, exploration, and global access to quantum optics tools.
Wireframes
After defining the updated structure, low-fidelity wireframes were created to explore how content could be grouped into clear, scannable sections. Once content priorities were established, designs moved into high-fidelity to refine visual hierarchy and interaction patterns.
Design in Stages
Next Steps
If the project continued, the next phase would focus on validation and iteration
01
Usability & Accessibility Testing
Conduct moderated tests with students and educators to observe first-time interactions with the landing page and simulation entry point. Ensure platform is usable for all users.
02
Educator Interviews
Gather qualitative feedback on how the Learn section supports classroom use and curriculum alignment.
03
Iteration Opportunities
Refine onboarding flows, improve documentation discoverability, and introduce saved simulations for signed-in users.
03
Metrics & Success Indicators
Time to first simulation launch
Sign-in conversion rate
Tutorial completion rates
Feedback form submissions
All rights reserved by Dayana Gonzalez Theresine