User research for the Secrets journal entry website would involve gathering insights into user needs, preferences, and challenges with interacting with the platform. Usability testing with potential users as they navigate the website would help identify user interface issues, possible improvements, and overall user satisfaction. Feedback on the signup process, customization features, and the overall user journey would be crucial. In addition to direct user feedback, comprehensive user research for the Secrets journal entry website would also involve a thorough analysis of other similar journaling applications in the market. This comparative analysis would aim to identify strengths, weaknesses, and unique features of competing platforms. Examining user reviews and testimonials for these apps could provide insights into common user expectations and areas of improvement. Understanding the competitive landscape helps in discerning trends, best practices, and innovative functionalities that could potentially enhance the Secrets platform. This research could also unveil gaps or unmet needs in existing solutions, guiding the development team in making strategic decisions about new features or improvements to set Secrets apart in the market. By learning from the successes and challenges of other journaling apps, Secrets can iteratively refine its user interface, features, and overall user experience to better cater to its diverse users.

Methodologies

Goals:
As a university student, Alex's primary goal is to document daily experiences, academic reflections, and personal thoughts efficiently. With a hectic schedule, a streamlined journaling process is crucial. Given the fast-paced nature of student life, a streamlined, hassle-free journaling process is essential.​

Frustrations:
Alex's frustrations stem from a complicated journaling process that impedes quick, easy documentation of daily experiences, academic reflections, and personal thoughts. A lack of privacy features compromising the secure storage of personal reflections would be a significant drawback. Limited customization options might impede the desired individuality in journal entries, causing frustration for someone who wishes to express their unique perspective

User Scenario

1. Unique Usernames: Allow each user to sign up with a distinct and unique username to personalize their experience.
Customizable Journal Entries: Enable users to create journal entries and customize each one by selecting a cover of their choice, fostering a personalized and visually appealing journaling experience.

2. Unique Entry Titles: Implement a feature that ensures each journal entry has a unique title, promoting organization and preventing duplication in user entries.

3. Homepage Display: Showcase the user's journals on the homepage for easy access, providing a convenient way to view and manage past entries. Include options for deletion to keep the journaling space clutter-free.

4. User Settings for Account Management: Incorporate a user-friendly settings section where users can modify their username or password, offering flexibility while ensuring all their existing journals are retained. This feature adds convenience and personal control to the user experience.

Must haves:

1. Page Customization: Introduce a page customization feature allowing users to choose from various themes, enabling them to personalize the colours of each page. This enhances the visual appeal and allows for a tailored journaling experience.

2. Quick Edit Button: Implement a quick edit button for users to make swift changes to their entries. This feature ensures flexibility and efficiency in managing and refining journal content.

3. Share Option: Integrate a share option, enabling users to send their journal entries to others on the site. This collaborative feature fosters a sense of community and allows users to share experiences or collaborate on shared projects within the platform.

Nice to haves: