What did you learn?
I learned how to construct a website prototype using Figma’s prototype features. I also learned how to assemble a design system using styles in Figma. I slowly sort of assembled a system for organizing these frames and plotting the links between each page. I also learned how to incorporate overlays into my prototypes.

What was easy?
Assembling the webs of links between pages in Figma is satisfying, maybe even fun. I find some strange satisfaction in spawning all my pages from a master frame and linking them all together in a web of interactivity.

What was challenging?
As always, everything else. I fell behind on this project because I was agonizing over every aesthetic choice as I was putting together a design system. Even then, once I had a handful of styles set, I would break their rules if I wanted a font to be bigger or I needed a new color to make the page look presentable. I imagine my process would be faster if I worked on making the site work before making it look pretty.

How could the assignment be improved for next class?
I don’t think there’s much to improve. It’s a decent sort of “learn by doing” kind of project. The instructions of some slides do need to be a bit less vague.

How could your submission be improved?
My design system needs some updating. The site itself also looks a little barebones. The about page has some placeholder text I just left there. The portfolio could also use a second entry. The aesthetics also need some polishing, some sharper, more sleek graphic design and less basic looking fonts.

How might you apply your knowledge in future assignments or work scenarios?
Well, I have a foundation for assembling prototypes. Skillfully? Not quite, but I have a place to build from.

How did a specific reading or video inspire me?
I wasn’t really inspired by anything in particular. I did take reference from some existing portfolio sites to get the basic format of some pages down.