Scan for prototype
OtaMart is a fully prototyped marketplace app designed specifically for anime fans, enabling them to buy and sell anime related products such as collectibles, cosplay items, and box sets.
To inform the design, I began by researching the types of users who would benefit most from a platform like OtaMart. This involved identifying the target audience and comparing existing marketplace apps such as Facebook Marketplace and Karrot to understand what works, what falls short, and where a niche, community focused platform could offer something more. From this research, I developed a user profile to ground my design decisions in a realistic, relatable use case.
The profile I created is Marcel Naithan, a 22 year old library clerk and dedicated anime fan with a passion for collecting figures and attending conventions. Marcel actively searches for rare and limited edition merchandise but finds general secondhand platforms too broad to locate exactly what he is looking for. His goal is a space built specifically for anime fans, where buying and selling a wide variety of merchandise is straightforward and community driven. Designing with Marcel in mind helped shape the app's onboarding flow, personalization features, and overall structure.
From there, I developed a user flow chart to map out the full experience from login to purchase, followed by wireframes for each key screen. Upon logging in, users complete an onboarding process where they select their favourite genres, titles, and merchandise types to personalize their experience. The app then generates a customized feed with product recommendations based on preferences and browsing behaviour. Sellers can create listings, set prices, and use tags to reach the right audience, while buyers can view high-definition images and detailed product descriptions. A built-in messaging system supports negotiation between buyers and sellers, fostering a trusted and interactive community.
Photo in user profile sourced via pexels.com