Ever feel awkward talking money? On the Table can guide you through open and honest conversations
about money.Timeline
October–December 2023U.K.
Reframing the Money ConversationDespite our modern times, money remains a taboo topic, shrouded in secrecy.
From childhood, our financial perceptions are shaped by family, culture, and personal experiences. As we grow, this relationship shifts, driven by emotions—fear, stress, joy, empowerment—that reflect our evolving values and circumstances.
Designing for Emotions,
Not Just NumbersContrary to the idea that financial decisions are purely logical, emotions heavily influence choices like buying versus renting, pursuing education, or negotiating salaries.
Yet, discussions about money often feel uncomfortable or even devastating. We need to approach these conversations with the same openness and curiosity we bring to design, politics, or relationships.
Key Findings
9 out of 10 millennial couples view money as central to their relationships (TD Bank, 2018).
55% of adults feel uneasy discussing their financial concerns (Money & Pension Service, 2020).
Millennials and Gen Z show a willingness to engage in money talks, though fear of conflict still lingers.
Key Insights1) Millennials and Gen Z demonstrate a notable openness to discussing financial matters with their partners.
2) Despite understanding the benefits, individuals often fear confrontation and overstepping boundaries in discussions.
3) Money encompasses a range of complex human emotions (including security, life, love, death, belonging, shame, and confidence).
User-Centered ApproachMoney is more than a number—it’s a narrative that weaves together self-worth, values, and personal histories. As a UX designer, my aim is to create a tool or platform that encourages transparency and empathy, turning these difficult conversations into opportunities for connection, growth, and understanding.
Design Question
How can a digital experience initiate conversations about money comfortably?
Let’s improve our money talks with On the Table.
Naming Decision
Design Scope
Project Flow
Mobile Lo-Fi Wireframe
Mobile Hi-Fi Wireframe
Key Functions
Screen 1 – 4Welcome to the first step! Tap to enter the app and discover the landing page!
Screen 5 – 8Engage with the app by...
Respond to prompt of the day: “What was your first experience with money?”
Save your chat.
Access saved chats in the library.
Screen 9 – 12On the Table Features:
Money Wellness Podcasts.
Money Talk Trivia: Questions On the Go.
Key TakeawaysI experienced the importance of:
Consistency:
User flows maintain uniformity across the product, making it easier for users to learn and navigate.
Clear Navigation:
They help structure the product's layout, ensuring users can find and understand what they need smoothly.
In conclusion, when designing within a time-constrained project, prioritizing and adhering to user flows in UX and product design is fundamental. It ensures the development of products that not only align with user needs but also fulfill potential business goals.