Defining the UX for your Festival (Defining problem space, Usability Goals etc)

The focus of my festival is based a range of video games, inspired by events like “E3” and “Comic Con.” With the name of this festival being “Game Nation UK”. Gaming festivals attract large audiences, with the 2019 E3 event drawing just over 69,000 attendees, a similar pattern also seen during the previous years events. However, due to Covid, many major gaming events such as “E3” were cancelled, which left fans without a replacement. This festival aims to fill that gap, offering an experience which will include video game teaser trailers, pop up stalls selling merchandise, and activities for attendees to explore. The event’s companion app will address common questions and provide solutions to boost the overall experience for all the possible users.

The main focus of my companion app is to address main issues which relate to: the event navigation, event scheduling, and a landing page for key event based information. Attendees may feel overwhelmed by large crowds, leading to confusion and difficulty navigating the venue, potentially causing a negative impact towards their experience. Although a schedule is typically provided, it often lacks the necessary details about where specific activities will be taking place, such as the trailers or presentations. The app aims to resolve these challenges by offering clear guidance, ensuring users can easily access the information they need to enhance their event experience.

Chart made in FigJam, displaying User problem space the app must solve.

The audience for this event is gaming fans and individuals familiar with tech, meaning they are more likely to prefer a mobile app solution to purchasing their tickets. Potential fans may prefer quick access, simple navigation, updates about the festival. With features such as the ability to access digital tickets, event schedules, and interactive maps directly from their phones.

The problem space between the companion app and a web based site will both differ with each providing their own solutions in a fitting way. The main purpose of the companion app is a simple yet effective solution to understanding the information quickly therefore also purchasing the suitable tickets in a quick duration. However the difference in using a web page to access the event is due to more detailed answers and explanations will be provided if the user is to use the web page instead of the companion app.

Reference

Facts regarding the E3 attendance. (Information found through) https://www.ign.com/wikis/e3/Attendance_and_Stats / Accessed 25/02/2025.