The problem
Many individuals encounter obstacles like limited financial service access, high fees, complex account opening processes, and a lack of transparency. Unbanked or underbanked people find it hard to engage in the global economy, creating barriers to financial inclusion and hindering the advantages of digital finance.
I created a financial solution that bridges the gap between traditional banking and the digital era.
The Challenge
Design an app and a Mastercard prepaid card that would empower users to manage their money effortlessly, regardless of their location or financial background.
The Idea
The app would serve as a one-stop solution for users to access a wide range of financial services, including payments, transfers, credit products, and more.
Product Design Challenge
My work
I contributed to developing the app
I created an intuitive and visually appealing app that simplifies complex financial processes
User personas created
3 main different users identified
Flows created
Onboarding process, Create an account, Login, Profile, Send money, Request money, Movements, Bill payments,Card request & activation
User experience optimzed
Enables users to manage their finances anytime, anywhere, through the app and the card.
Creation of the design system
Over 50 design components designed.
Conducted user research
Through extensive user research, I discovered that Bolivian culture places a strong emphasis on community, trust, and cash-based transactions. Many Bolivians, especially in rural areas, rely heavily on informal financial systems due to limited access to traditional banking. Challenges include:
- Low financial literacy
- Distrust in banks
- Preference for cash
- Receive remittances
Creation of prototypes
Test main flows with 3 to 5 users to validate design efficiency, clarity, and next iterations.
Problems solved
- Financial Inclusion
- Provides access to banking services for unbanked and underbanked populations.
- Complex processes
- Simplifies account setup and financial management..
- Accessibility
- Enables users to manage their finances anytime, anywhere, through the app and Mastercard.
The solution
With the app, users can manage their money in a convenient and useful manner, and they can access services like:
- Open a payment account in minutes.
- Manage their Mastercard prepaid card.
- Send and receive local transfers.
- Pay bills and services directly from the app.
- Access consumer credit products.
- Track transactions and balances in real-time.
In-depth user research
Only
Of the population has access to credits.
Excessive paperwork and high interest rates keep people unbanked.
of the population has access to financial offices.
Banks operate multiple city offices to ensure users can access their services.
Of the users have used QR codes and debit cards.
Half of banked users utilize debit cards, with QR codes being the most popular transaction method.
Before & after my work
Before
Complex user experience
The app had a cluttered interface, making it difficult for users to navigate and complete basic tasks like create an account.
Outdated aesthetic
The visual design felt outdated and did not reflect Koban’s innovative brand identity.
Poor Onboarding
New users struggled to understand the app’s features, resulting in confusion and frustration.
After
Streamlined User Experience
An intuitive, user-friendly interface with clear navigation and simplified workflows, making financial management effortless.
Modern Aesthetic
A fresh, visually appealing design aligns with Koban’s innovative brand, creating a sense of trust and professionalism.
Effective Onboarding
A guided onboarding process helps new users quickly understand and adopt the app’s features, reducing frustration and improving the overall experience.
PROS
- Available to banked or unbanked users, including those with traditional bank accounts.
- Intuitive app interface designed for ease of use.
- Combines digital and physical payment options for seamless transactions.
CONCLUSION
By addressing the limitations of traditional banking and leveraging the power of digital technology, Koban empowers users to take control of their finances with ease and confidence. The app and Mastercard prepaid card work together to provide a holistic financial solution that is simple, convenient, and accessible to all. With its user-centric design and innovative features, Koban is not just a product—it’s a movement toward a more inclusive and efficient financial future.