Privacy-Focused Content Suggestions
MEGA The Privacy Company, 2024
Overarching goal
Simplifying the upload process is key to helping users make the most of their cloud storage. This case study explores a mobile-first feature that suggests local content for easy cloud uploads. But for a privacy-focused cloud drive product, showing suggested local files for upload is a delicate feature to consider. Through user research and usability testing, I identified privacy-focused strategies to design a solution that enhances usability without compromising trust.
Problem Statement
Users often face challenges in uploading relevant files to their cloud drive, leading to inefficiencies and missed backups. Remembering to sync files manually can result in overlooked folders, and the multi-step process adds complexity to the overall experience.
Research & Insights
To understand user perceptions of privacy and suggested content,
I planned and conducted:
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User Interviews: Explored attitudes towards automated file suggestions and general thoughts on trust.
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A/B Testing: Compared user flows where no permission was asked and the feature was simply shown vs. an opt-in approach.
A/B Testing with MEGA users
Affinity map of research findings
Key Findings
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Transparency is key: Users wanted clear explanations of why files were suggested.
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Control matters: Users preferred the ability to enable or disable suggestions.
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Contextual relevance: Users valued suggestions that aligned with their recent activity but disliked arbitrary recommendations.
Because of the findings, we opted for Variant A where users were asked if they want to opt-in to the feature while including a clear explanation of how the suggestions are made.
Solution Discovery
Based on research findings, I designed a privacy-first content suggestion system, incorporating:
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User Control Options: A dedicated setting allowed users to manage and disable suggestions.
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Opt-out by default: The feature is opt-out by default, ensuring users are not surprised by suddenly seeing their local content.
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Minimalist UI: A lightweight, non-intrusive design ensured ease of use.
Key Considerations
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Transparency: I made sure the process behind file suggestions clear
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Privacy-first Messaging: I reinforced that privacy is the priority, clearly differentiating the product’s approach from other services.
User journey flow outlining the business logic and steps the user will take
Low fidelity wireframes
High fidelity wireframes