Examining the yelp Mobile App

Dorothy LeeCognition and Hand-Held Devices

7/25/14

yelp Hybrid App(loads content from the internet but

provides an app-like experience)

Considers user

priorities(ex. Hit areas are sized for easy access)

Improves functionality(ex. Access to

Maps and Phone)

Information ArchitectureThe yelp app utilizes a combination of the tabbed

and nested doll pattern.

Information ArchitectureThe yelp app utilizes a combination of the tabbed

and nested doll pattern.

• The tabbed menu makes it easy to navigate between the major functions of the app.

• The “More” tab reveals an expanded menu that allows the user to view more minor functions. The decision to separate these functions in an expanded menu keep the primary view uncluttered and accessible.

• The nested doll pattern is appropriate for view loosely related items (i.e. different results for “ice cream”) and allowing the user to decide whether or not to view more detailed content. This is easily accomplished in a simple, linear fashion.

Interaction DesignThe yelp app utilizes a combination of the tabbed

and nested doll pattern.

• The nested doll views transition with a horizontal slide (backwards or forwards)• Takes into account user

recall and prevents them from getting “lost”

• The tabbed views transition with a quick change• Because the tabs are

always visible, user does not need transitions to aid recall

• However, the lack of transition cheapens user experience

Visual DesignUser can scroll by swiping

anywhere on the screen

Important controls are close together and easily noticeable

Controls are accompanied by visuals that help speed up user interpretation

Main buttons on top are accentuated to communicate interactive functionality; tabbed buttons are accentuated by a side arrow