I conducted a comprehensive audit of over 10 consumer car leasing companies, analyzing both their websites and mobile applications. This included examining the overall look and feel, messaging, imagery, typography, color systems, and content strategies. I also identified unique standout features for each company and mapped the information architecture of best-in-class examples.
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Maria, like many users, struggled with inconsistent branding and navigation across devices. We developed a new design system, helping her and other customers feel reassured no matter which device they used and ensure visual consistency.
DESIGN
With ACC's updated process, users can now complete the majority of the leasing journey from the comfort of their own homes. Every step can be handled online and submitted directly to the dealership for review, eliminating the need to schedule in-person appointments through ACC.
Our team introduced a smarter form design, where mandatory steps and clear visual feedback is given. These changes make the process more intuitive and structured, leading users to naturally "do things correctly." This meets users' identified functional and emotional needs of clarity and assurance.
Clear Visual Feedback: Visual indicators, such as color-coded design cues, actively prompt users to correct errors or complete missing sections before moving forward.
To guide users through the leasing form, we created a system of key interaction states for essential fields such as the "Net Monthly Pay" and "Social Security Number" fields. For example, if a field is filled incorrectly or left blank, an error state is triggered. This includes distinct color changes (e.g., red outlines) and explanatory messages to ensure users understand the issue and correct it before proceeding. By focusing on these core interaction states, we’ve created a guided, user-friendly process that minimizes confusion, reduces errors, and ensures every form is completed before submission.
Users can now browse through ACC’s inventory and find products that better fit their wants and needs. We optimized search and filtering options, allowing her to search based on budget, dealership location, and features, simplifying user's decision-making process.
Accessibility was a key priority in my design process. I meticulously tested color combinations, form elements, and button states while ensuring touch targets met optimal sizing. Every detail was annotated carefully in detail, not just to document compliance, but to provide clear rationale for design decisions. If an element didn’t meet WCAG AAA standards, I outlined whether adjustments were made or why it was granted certain exceptions, such as inactive components serving a purely decorative role. This approach ensured transparency and a stronger, more accessible user experience.
My team and I designed the digital site to work smoothly across web, tablet, and mobile, making sure the layout and interactions feel natural and adapts to any screen. I focused on keeping the experience consistent while adjusting for different screen sizes, so users can easily navigate no matter what device they’re on.