Problem
Static portfolios feel outdated and lifeless
Many designers still present their work using flat, rigid grids that fail to capture attention. Without motion or structure that reflects creativity, even strong projects can feel uninspired and easily overlooked.
Solution
A dynamic grid that brings your work to life
Nitro introduces a floating card system and advanced grid layout to make every project feel interactive and modern. Built on a flexible CMS, it helps you present your portfolio with clarity, movement, and visual sophistication — all while staying clean and easy to navigate.
Context of Use
University students increasingly rely on digital wallets and subscriptions, but most campus services remain disconnected. Apps like Apple Wallet, Google Pay, and UNiDAYS have raised expectations for a single, streamlined experience. UniVerse responds to this by unifying payments, student discounts, and subscriptions into one app.
Mind Map
This mind map sets the stage by illustrating the interconnected problems around student financial struggles, discount discovery, and campus payment complexity. It outlines key domains like budgeting, subscriptions, and tech integration which shaped the problem space.
Visual Abstract
This mind map sets the stage by illustrating the interconnected problems around student financial struggles, discount discovery, and campus payment complexity. It outlines key domains like budgeting, subscriptions, and tech integration which shaped the problem space.
Process Overview
Stanford d. Design Process
The UniVerse project was structured using the Stanford d. design process, supported by participatory design methods at multiple stages. Each phase integrated direct user involvement from discovery and co-ideation to testing and refinement ensuring the final solution was informed by real behaviours, expectations, and feedback loops.
Interveiw Planning
Created a semi-structured guide to explore students' financial habits, discount awareness, and subscription tracking. The interviews balanced consistency with flexibility allowing users to share unplanned insights.
Participant Recruitment Strategy
To gather meaningful insights, I recruited university students who actively manage subscriptions, student discounts, and campus payments.
Nitro feels alive. The floating cards and grid layout make every project pop without overcomplicating things. It’s clean, flexible, and modern.
Jason Lee
Visual Designer
