Describe your role within the StrathApp team, what have you been working on?

In my role as a Student Project Assistant, I provide a student's perspective to the StrathApp Team, offering recommendations and insights to enhance the app's functionality in supporting the student experience.

During my involvement with the StrathApp team, I was responsible for a range of tasks, including auditing the application and developing a comprehensive user guide. I also used Figma and other design software to contribute to various projects. Additionally, I played a key role in the planning and execution of the StrathApp Fresher's Week stall, which included assisting in the creation of a survey to gather valuable user feedback.

How did you get involved with working with the team?

I first became aware of the StrathApp team through my involvement in other university projects, which led me to attend some of their focus group events. I was impressed by their work and recognised a good learning opportunity, which prompted me to apply for a position within their Student Co-creation Programme. I submitted my CV and a cover letter, and after a successful in-person interview, I was offered the position.

What experience have you gained by working with the team?

From working with the team, I have gained a good understanding of the different elements of the app, this includes the end-to-end process from front-end design, user experience, and visual look of the app, to the back-end infrastructure where data is stored and retrieved. I also gained a strong understanding of the communications used and how they integrate with the university's to provide students with access to all the information they need across the entire university.

I have also gained experience using Figma to design app wireframes. In addition, I contributed to the planning and execution of the Freshers' Week stall by assisting in creating a survey, designing on-site activities, and developing promotional materials. I was a proactive member of the team when engaging with student to gain there feedback and fed this back to the team for further app development opportunities.

How do you think the work you have done with the StrathApp Team will benefit other students?

I have provided insight into how I have used that app and what areas worked well and worked to try improving areas that were not as well, for me this was timetabling. Through this I have shared what changes may make it better and this can then be investigated to work on improving this service.

I provided analysis of the app's strengths and weaknesses, offering insights based on my personal user experience. Specifically, I identified that the timetabling feature could be improved with recommendation on how this can be improved through my personal experiences to give insight into why this would be beneficial, which can be further investigated for future development.

How has working with the team benefitted you?

I have gained a comprehensive understanding of the app's development, including both its front-end (user-facing interface), and gained experience at using Figma to design wireframes, as well was learned about the back-end (server-side logic and database) components to where and how data is stored and collected to be used within the app. Additionally, I have deepened my knowledge of related communications processes. I've also attended AI sessions to stay current on new technologies.

My role included significant involvement in the planning and organization of Freshers’  Week activities, where I successfully designed promotional materials using Canva. This experience has enhanced my confidence and provided valuable, real-world skills that I can apply to future career opportunities.

I've genuinely enjoyed this experience, especially the opportunity to learn from the different members of the team. I've taken the advice and guidance from the members of the team and this has helped me to develop a variety of valuable skills that I will used within future career opportunities.

-Stephen McGill BA (Hons) Hospitality and Tourism Management and Marketing