{
    "version": "https://jsonfeed.org/version/1",
    "title": "Lukas Soukup — iOS Developer & Product Designer",
    "home_page_url": "https://www.lukassoukup.com",
    "feed_url": "https://www.lukassoukup.com/rss/feed.json",
    "description": "Case studies, product updates, and articles by Lukas Soukup.",
    "icon": "https://www.lukassoukup.com/favicon.ico",
    "author": {
        "name": "Lukas Soukup"
    },
    "items": [
        {
            "id": "https://www.lukassoukup.com/articles/directionkit",
            "content_html": "<img alt=\"DirectionKit app main screen\" srcSet=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fdirectionkit-cover.13bdbdd6.png&amp;w=3840&amp;q=75 1x\" src=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fdirectionkit-cover.13bdbdd6.png&amp;w=3840&amp;q=75\" width=\"2600\" height=\"1900\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" style=\"color:transparent\"/>\n<hr/>\n<h2>Project Overview</h2>\n<p><strong>DirectionKit</strong> is an easy-to-use iOS app combining navigation, discovery, and location organization in a beautifully simple interface. Whether you’re hiking, boating, geocaching, or just exploring a new city, DirectionKit gives you the tools to find your way, save your adventures, and return to your favorite spots—all with privacy by default.</p>\n<hr/>\n<h3>Project Duration</h3>\n<p>October 2025 – Present</p>\n<hr/>\n<h2>The Product</h2>\n<p>DirectionKit helps users set their destination simply by tapping anywhere on the map. Instantly see the straight-line direction and distance—ideal when exact routes aren’t needed. Users can also search for nearby places, enter coordinates for any location, and organize a list of favorite spots for easy reference and return visits.</p>\n<p><strong>Key features:</strong></p>\n<ul>\n<li>Tap to set any destination and see clear direction + distance</li>\n<li>Search by name, coordinates, or “near me”</li>\n<li>Save, organize, and revisit favorite places</li>\n<li>One-tap sharing for any location</li>\n<li>Choose metric, imperial, or maritime units</li>\n<li>No account required, with privacy-first data storage and iCloud sync</li>\n</ul>\n<hr/>\n<h2>The Problem</h2>\n<p>Typical navigation apps focus on turn-by-turn car directions. Many users, hikers, sailors, festival visitors, event-goers, and explorers need something simpler:<br/>\n<strong>A fast, private way to set or find locations, see clear direction (“as the crow flies”) and distance, and save or share favorite places.</strong></p>\n<hr/>\n<h2>The Opportunity</h2>\n<ul>\n<li>There’s a demand for <strong>compass (direct) navigation</strong> for hiking, nature, boating, and campus/event exploration</li>\n<li>Existing apps don’t make it easy to organize locations or revisit non-address places</li>\n<li><strong>Privacy-first navigation</strong>: Users want full control over their location data, with no unnecessary signups or sharing</li>\n<li>Flexibility for all: city, wild, maritime, or just day-to-day errands</li>\n</ul>\n<hr/>\n<h2>The Goal</h2>\n<p>Build a flexible, delightful navigation and location management app for real-world adventures—urban, rural, or anywhere in between—while always protecting user data.</p>\n<hr/>\n<h2>My Role</h2>\n<p>Solo designer and developer (iOS, SwiftUI). Responsible for product definition, UX/UI, all engineering, App Store marketing, and support.</p>\n<hr/>\n<h2>Responsibilities</h2>\n<ul>\n<li>Designed a highly visual UI centered on fast tap-to-set navigation</li>\n<li>Built search (name, coordinates, “near me”) and favorites organizer</li>\n<li>Implemented robust privacy: all locations on-device, secure iCloud sync (no 3rd-party servers)</li>\n<li>App Store launch: branding, screenshots, ASO</li>\n</ul>\n<hr/>\n<h2>The Result</h2>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Reliable compass navigation</strong> for any location—no distraction, no clutter</li>\n<li><strong>Save and organize favorites</strong> for fast return trips (great for adventurers and casual explorers alike)</li>\n<li><strong>Share locations</strong> instantly with friends or devices</li>\n<li><strong>Multiple units:</strong> Use metric, imperial, or maritime as needed</li>\n<li><strong>No account required</strong>; privacy-first, with iCloud sync as an option</li>\n<li><strong>Fast, modern iOS design</strong> with dark mode and accessibility support</li>\n</ul>\n<hr/>\n<h2>What I Learned</h2>\n<ul>\n<li>Simplicity and privacy are huge differentiators in navigation apps</li>\n<li>Supporting multiple measurement units (including nautical) quickly attracted passionate user communities</li>\n<li>Users love features that make them feel secure and in control—especially with location data</li>\n<li>UX for “setting” and “saving” locations needs to be frictionless for all ages and tech levels</li>\n</ul>\n<hr/>\n<h2>Takeaways</h2>\n<ul>\n<li>Straight-line navigation fills a unique gap in the market—often neglected by big GPS apps</li>\n<li>Privacy-by-design builds instant trust and loyalty</li>\n<li>Flexibility (metric, imperial, maritime), favorites, and fast sharing are highly valued by diverse audiences</li>\n<li>Listening to user communities (hikers, sailors, geocachers) leads directly to high-impact features</li>\n</ul>\n<hr/>\n<p><strong>Ready to explore?</strong><br/>\nDirectionKit is available on the <a href=\"https://apps.apple.com/us/app/directionkit-compass/id6752239993\">App Store</a>.</p>\n<hr/>",
            "url": "https://www.lukassoukup.com/articles/directionkit",
            "title": "Developing DirectionKit: Navigation Simplified for Every Explorer",
            "summary": "DirectionKit is a privacy-first, straight-line navigation and location organizer for iOS, perfect for city adventures, hiking, sailing, geocaching, and more.",
            "date_modified": "2025-10-07T00:00:00.000Z",
            "author": {
                "name": "Lukas Soukup"
            }
        },
        {
            "id": "https://www.lukassoukup.com/articles/unitkit",
            "content_html": "<img alt=\"UnitKit main screen\" srcSet=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Funitkit-cover.17ad1b81.png&amp;w=3840&amp;q=75 1x\" src=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Funitkit-cover.17ad1b81.png&amp;w=3840&amp;q=75\" width=\"2600\" height=\"1900\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" style=\"color:transparent\"/>\n<h2>Project overview</h2>\n<p>UnitKit is a modern iOS app that makes it easy to convert between all sorts of measurement units. It’s designed to be powerful, flexible, and incredibly simple to use—bringing together the utility of classic converters with customizable features tailored for everyday life, work, or specialized hobbies.</p>\n<hr/>\n<h3>Project duration</h3>\n<p>Aug 2025 – Present</p>\n<hr/>\n<h2>The product</h2>\n<p>Whether you’re working on home improvement, a science assignment, or a new recipe, UnitKit is made to make conversions fast and seamless. The app includes dozens of standard units (length, mass, temperature, etc.), a powerful search, and a unique feature: creating custom units and rules for conversions—even niche or hobby-based needs.</p>\n<p>UnitKit is available on the <a href=\"https://apps.apple.com/us/app/conversion-calculator-unitkit/id6748941419\">Apple App Store</a>.</p>\n<hr/>\n<h2>The problem</h2>\n<p>Most unit converters are cluttered, slow, or too limited for real-life scenarios. Many users want a tool that’s:</p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Simple for quick conversions</strong> (no fiddling with complex menus)</li>\n<li><strong>Capable of custom, niche units</strong> for work or hobbies (like woodworking, education, or engineering)</li>\n<li><strong>Always available, synced, and feels like a native iOS app</strong></li>\n</ul>\n<hr/>\n<h2>The opportunity</h2>\n<ul>\n<li>Everyday tasks (DIY, recipes, science, shopping) require fast and reliable conversions</li>\n<li>Users increasingly need flexibility—custom units, history, and ease of sharing results</li>\n<li>A “native” iOS-first product means: fluid UI, iCloud sync, privacy, and support for the latest Apple features</li>\n</ul>\n<hr/>\n<h2>The goal</h2>\n<p>Create the most usable and modern unit converter for iOS—one that:</p>\n<ul>\n<li>Covers all the standard units people need</li>\n<li>Empowers users to define their own units and conversion rules</li>\n<li>Makes every interaction fast, friendly, and intuitive</li>\n<li>Syncs everything safely with iCloud for seamless use across devices</li>\n</ul>\n<hr/>\n<h2>My role</h2>\n<p>Sole designer and developer (iOS, SwiftUI).<br/>\nResponsible for: product design, UX, UI, prototyping, development, App Store launch, user support, and marketing.</p>\n<hr/>\n<h2>Responsibilities</h2>\n<ul>\n<li>Researching user needs for conversions (surveys, competitive analysis, App Store reviews)</li>\n<li>Designing UI/UX: quick-access keyboard, favorites, history, and “create custom unit” flows</li>\n<li>Prototyping interactions in SwiftUI</li>\n<li>Implementing iCloud sync &amp; data model for reliable, private cloud storage</li>\n<li>Testing for edge cases (accuracy, rounding, rare or large units, etc.)</li>\n<li>App Store launch: screenshots, ASO, marketing copy</li>\n<li>Handling user feedback and rolling out updates</li>\n</ul>\n<hr/>\n<h2>The result</h2>\n<p>UnitKit delivers on its promise:</p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Effortless conversion</strong> between dozens of units</li>\n<li><strong>Custom units</strong>: Users can add and reuse any personal conversion they need</li>\n<li><strong>Persistent history</strong>: All your past conversions, searchable and synced</li>\n<li><strong>Instant sharing</strong>: Copy to clipboard, share your results, or use in other apps</li>\n<li><strong>iCloud sync</strong>: Everything stays up-to-date</li>\n<li><strong>Beautiful, native UI</strong>: Optimized for iOS with accessibility and dark mode</li>\n</ul>\n<hr/>\n<h2>What I learned</h2>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Custom units</strong> are a top niche feature—many users have at least one “non-standard” conversion they need again and again</li>\n<li><strong>iCloud sync</strong> is non-negotiable for serious utility apps: users expect their data everywhere</li>\n<li><strong>ASO and visuals matter:</strong> Clear App Store screenshots and a punchy description improve downloads</li>\n<li><strong>Regular, small updates</strong> lead to better user engagement and word of mouth</li>\n</ul>\n<hr/>\n<h2>Takeaways</h2>\n<ul>\n<li>Solve a focused problem brilliantly, then expand with power features</li>\n<li>User-captured data (history, custom units) makes the app more “sticky” and valuable</li>\n<li>Native, modern iOS design and iCloud are true differentiators in the category</li>\n<li>Listen to feedback—users often suggest the best “next step” features!</li>\n</ul>\n<hr/>",
            "url": "https://www.lukassoukup.com/articles/unitkit",
            "title": "Designing a Universal Unit Converter for Everyday Use",
            "summary": "UnitKit is a simple yet powerful unit converter and calculator, designed for flexibility, speed, and great usability on iOS.",
            "date_modified": "2025-08-28T00:00:00.000Z",
            "author": {
                "name": "Lukas Soukup"
            }
        },
        {
            "id": "https://www.lukassoukup.com/articles/chezai",
            "content_html": "<img alt=\"ChezAI app main screen\" srcSet=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fchezai-cover.c4c4bd8b.png&amp;w=3840&amp;q=75 1x\" src=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fchezai-cover.c4c4bd8b.png&amp;w=3840&amp;q=75\" width=\"2600\" height=\"1900\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" style=\"color:transparent\"/>\n<hr/>\n<h2>Project Overview</h2>\n<p><strong>ChezAI</strong> is an innovative iOS app that leverages cutting-edge AI to help anyone reimagine, design, and perfect their home. From initial mood board inspiration through realistic visualization and actionable redesign insights, ChezAI empowers users to transform any space—from small apartments to entire homes—with creativity and confidence.</p>\n<hr/>\n<h3>Project Duration</h3>\n<p>May 2025 – Present</p>\n<hr/>\n<h2>The Product</h2>\n<p>ChezAI takes home design to the next level:</p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Mood Boards:</strong> Instantly assemble digital collages, drawing from style templates and your own inspirations, to clarify your vision.</li>\n<li><strong>AI Design Visualization:</strong> Create breathtaking, photorealistic previews of interiors and exteriors—just upload a photo or start with a blank slate.</li>\n<li><strong>Remodel &amp; Redesign:</strong> Experiment with different layouts, color schemes, and decor styles for any room or outdoor space.</li>\n<li><strong>Personalized AI Insights:</strong> Upload photos and unlock tailored recommendations for furniture, color palettes, and decor based on your chosen aesthetic.</li>\n</ul>\n<p>All features are packaged in a beautifully intuitive interface geared for homeowners, renters, and design enthusiasts alike.</p>\n<hr/>\n<h2>The Problem</h2>\n<p>For many, home design and remodeling is overwhelming—translating an idea into a cohesive style is tough, and mistakes can be costly. Most design tools are complex, time-consuming, or require prior experience; others lack customization, photorealism, or real-time feedback.</p>\n<hr/>\n<h2>The Opportunity</h2>\n<ul>\n<li>Growing DIY and personalization trends mean <strong>users want creative control and confidence in their home projects</strong>.</li>\n<li>AI and vision models open the door for <strong>fast, realistic, and individualized design experiences</strong> that were impossible just a few years ago.</li>\n<li>There’s <strong>demand for simple, mobile-first, all-in-one tools</strong> for inspiration, visualization, and actionable insights.</li>\n</ul>\n<hr/>\n<h2>The Goal</h2>\n<p>Create an accessible yet powerful AI design companion—helping users dream big, experiment safely, and see their future home before ever picking up a paintbrush or calling a contractor.</p>\n<hr/>\n<h2>My Role</h2>\n<p>Solo product designer &amp; SwiftUI developer for ChezAI. Led all aspects: research, feature design, data flow, AI model integration, UX/UI design, launch, and marketing.</p>\n<hr/>\n<h2>Responsibilities</h2>\n<ul>\n<li>Researched pain points from DIYers, homeowners, and decorators—from “I can’t visualize my idea” to “What colors actually look good together?”</li>\n<li>Designed a mobile-centric interface minimizing friction for mood boards, photo uploads, and previews.</li>\n<li>Integrated advanced AI for photorealistic rendering and style analysis.</li>\n<li>Built share and save flows—making it easy to revisit concepts or share with professionals, partners, or social media.</li>\n<li>Developed personalized recommendations based on user-uploaded photos.</li>\n<li>Managed all branding, App Store presence, and early feedback channels.</li>\n</ul>\n<hr/>\n<h2>The Result</h2>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Seamless Inspiration-to-Visualization:</strong> Users start with a mood or a simple photo and finish with a vivid, realistic preview.</li>\n<li><strong>Personalization at Scale:</strong> AI offers individualized suggestions for furniture, colors, and styles—like a private interior designer in your pocket.</li>\n<li><strong>Effortless Experimentation:</strong> Try endless combinations, layouts, and styles in seconds, risk-free.</li>\n<li><strong>User Ownership:</strong> Save, favorite, and share design boards or AI renderings with anyone—no subscriptions required to get started.</li>\n<li><strong>Elegant, intuitive experience:</strong> Modern UI keeps focus on creativity—not complexity.</li>\n</ul>\n<hr/>\n<h2>What I Learned</h2>\n<ul>\n<li>Visualization is the biggest hurdle for most home designers—clear, realistic previews eliminate indecision and regret.</li>\n<li>Streamlined, mobile-first design wins: users want both inspiration and execution in their pocket.</li>\n<li>AI-powered insights (color/furniture recommendations) add real value beyond visual fantasy—users crave actionable feedback.</li>\n<li>Sharing and saving are essential—design is social by nature!</li>\n</ul>\n<hr/>\n<h2>Takeaways</h2>\n<ul>\n<li>Reducing “friction” from idea to visualization is transformative in the home design space.</li>\n<li>The combination of mood, photorealism, and actionable tips makes ChezAI uniquely empowering.</li>\n<li>Home design is both a personal and collaborative journey—tools should address both needs.</li>\n<li>Simplicity, personalization, and visual quality drive user adoption and return engagement.</li>\n</ul>\n<hr/>\n<p><strong>Ready to elevate your home design?</strong><br/>\nChezAI is now available on the <a href=\"https://apps.apple.com/us/app/interior-design-ai-chezai/id6740142224\">App Store</a>.</p>",
            "url": "https://www.lukassoukup.com/articles/chezai",
            "title": "ChezAI: Designing the Future of Home Creativity",
            "summary": "ChezAI is an AI-powered home and remodel design app that empowers users to visualize, plan, and perfect their living spaces—combining photorealistic AI, mood boards, and intelligent style insights.",
            "date_modified": "2025-05-29T00:00:00.000Z",
            "author": {
                "name": "Lukas Soukup"
            }
        },
        {
            "id": "https://www.lukassoukup.com/articles/imaginarium",
            "content_html": "<img alt=\"Imaginarium app main screen\" srcSet=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fimaginarium-cover.eab18362.png&amp;w=3840&amp;q=75 1x\" src=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fimaginarium-cover.eab18362.png&amp;w=3840&amp;q=75\" width=\"2600\" height=\"1900\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" style=\"color:transparent\"/>\n<hr/>\n<h2>Project Overview</h2>\n<p><strong>Imaginarium</strong> is a next-generation iOS app designed to make AI-powered image generation accessible and inspiring to everyone—from professional creators to casual dreamers. With user-friendly tools and a flexible pay-as-you-go model, Imaginarium transforms ideas into beautiful, shareable artworks in seconds.</p>\n<hr/>\n<h3>Project Duration</h3>\n<p>January 2025 – Present</p>\n<hr/>\n<h2>The Product</h2>\n<p>Imaginarium bridges the gap between advanced AI technology and intuitive user experience. Its features empower users to:</p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Generate stunning images with AI:</strong> Describe any idea—portraits, landscapes, abstracts, or custom themes—and see it come to life instantly.</li>\n<li><strong>Flexible Canvas:</strong> Choose from portrait, landscape, or square formats to suit your project.</li>\n<li><strong>Effortless refinement:</strong> Adjust prompts, iterate your artwork, and fine-tune creations on the fly.</li>\n<li><strong>Organized &amp; accessible:</strong> Manage your art library right from the home screen, with easy access to previous works.</li>\n<li><strong>Instant sharing:</strong> Share images via email, social networks, or messaging in just a tap.</li>\n<li><strong>No subscriptions:</strong> Use a pay-as-you-go credits system, giving users total control over their creative investment.</li>\n</ul>\n<hr/>\n<h2>The Problem</h2>\n<p>AI art tools often feel intimidating or lack meaningful usability. Many require ongoing subscriptions, complicated workflows, or fail to give users ownership and flexibility in their creative journeys.</p>\n<hr/>\n<h2>The Opportunity</h2>\n<ul>\n<li>Creators and the creatively curious seek <strong>fast, easy, and inspiring ways to bring ideas to life with AI.</strong></li>\n<li>Many users crave a <strong>mobile-first experience</strong> that doesn’t lock them into recurring payments.</li>\n<li><strong>Personalization and intuitive sharing</strong> are key to continued engagement and delight.</li>\n</ul>\n<hr/>\n<h2>The Goal</h2>\n<p>Build the most approachable, feature-rich, and empowering AI art app for iOS—making advanced technology invisible, and focusing on user creativity.</p>\n<hr/>\n<h2>My Role</h2>\n<p>Solo product designer and iOS developer (SwiftUI). Responsibilities ranged from initial UX flows and interface design, to model integration, payment system, App Store launch, and support.</p>\n<hr/>\n<h2>Responsibilities</h2>\n<ul>\n<li>Researched user needs in the rapidly evolving AI art space—from pro creators to hobbyists.</li>\n<li>Designed a modern, intuitive UI balancing simplicity and powerful features.</li>\n<li>Integrated a state-of-the-art AI image generation API; optimized for fast, consistent outputs.</li>\n<li>Developed a flexible, transparent credit system with seamless in-app purchases.</li>\n<li>Built iteration loops for prompt adjustment and artwork refinement.</li>\n<li>Implemented organization and sharing tools for user artwork collections.</li>\n<li>Created marketing assets, App Store listing, and managed launch.</li>\n</ul>\n<hr/>\n<h2>The Result</h2>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Instant Creative Power:</strong> Users can see their visions visualized within seconds.</li>\n<li><strong>Iterative Art Creation:</strong> Refinement and re-prompting make it easy to produce exactly the art you want.</li>\n<li><strong>Art Library:</strong> Home screen features your personal gallery; manage and revisit creations anytime.</li>\n<li><strong>Easy Sharing:</strong> Effortlessly post or send images—fueling user pride and word-of-mouth growth.</li>\n<li><strong>Flexible Payments:</strong> No pressure to subscribe—buy credits as needed, making it accessible to all.</li>\n</ul>\n<hr/>\n<h2>Impact</h2>\n<ul>\n<li>Diverse users are able to quickly externalize their imagination and share unique images.</li>\n<li>The user-centric design, pay-as-you-go system, and privacy focus result in positive early adoption.</li>\n<li>Feedback highlights the approachable interface, fun iterative workflow, and truly “creative partner” feel.</li>\n</ul>\n<hr/>\n<h2>What I Learned</h2>\n<ul>\n<li>For many users, creativity comes alive when barriers are removed—a fast, friendly UI and transparent pricing are important.</li>\n<li>Iteration (prompt refinement) is a must-have; users enjoy being able to “riff” on their own art.</li>\n<li>Users value ownership—easy saving, flexible payment, and privacy over their artwork build trust.</li>\n<li>Consistency and speed in AI generation drive repeated usage and delight.</li>\n</ul>\n<hr/>\n<h2>Takeaways</h2>\n<ul>\n<li>Meet users where creativity begins—make pro-level AI tools invisible and delightful.</li>\n<li>Iterate alongside users: continual improvement keeps the product fun and relevant as generative AI evolves.</li>\n<li>A beautiful, organized gallery is more than convenience—it’s the heart of the user’s creative experience.</li>\n<li>Transparent pricing and “no subscription required” messaging is a strong differentiator in the market.</li>\n</ul>\n<hr/>\n<p><strong>Start your journey:</strong><br/>\nImaginarium is now available for free on the <a href=\"https://apps.apple.com/us/app/ai-art-imaginarium/id6739706784\">App Store</a>.</p>",
            "url": "https://www.lukassoukup.com/articles/imaginarium",
            "title": "Imaginarium: Designing an AI-Powered Art Creator for Everyone",
            "summary": "Imaginarium empowers users to convert their creative vision into stunning images using the latest AI models—delivering limitless possibilities for artists, hobbyists, and dreamers.",
            "date_modified": "2025-01-03T00:00:00.000Z",
            "author": {
                "name": "Lukas Soukup"
            }
        },
        {
            "id": "https://www.lukassoukup.com/articles/promptkit",
            "content_html": "<img alt=\"PromptKit App Main Screen\" srcSet=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fpromptkit-cover.7af2aa26.png&amp;w=3840&amp;q=75 1x\" src=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fpromptkit-cover.7af2aa26.png&amp;w=3840&amp;q=75\" width=\"2600\" height=\"1900\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" style=\"color:transparent\"/>\n<h2>Project Overview</h2>\n<p>PromptKit is a productivity toolkit for anyone working with AI daily. It provides a powerful, organized library of high-quality prompts, tools for creating and enhancing AI instructions, and seamless workflows for using and sharing prompts with any model—including ChatGPT, Midjourney, Claude, Gemini, and Copilot.</p>\n<hr/>\n<h3>Project Duration</h3>\n<p>June 2024 – Present</p>\n<hr/>\n<h2>The Product</h2>\n<p>PromptKit tackles the new productivity bottleneck: managing and reusing AI prompts efficiently. It’s built for creators, marketers, developers, teams, and anyone looking to maximize the value of AI models. Key features include:</p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Curated Prompt Library:</strong> Inspiration and ready-made templates for all top AI models.</li>\n<li><strong>Prompt Creation &amp; Customization:</strong> Easily build and refine instructions, save notes, and update them using built-in AI tools.</li>\n<li><strong>Cross-Model Compatibility:</strong> Prompts can be used, tested, and compared across models—find what works best!</li>\n<li><strong>Organization:</strong> Categorize, tag, favorite, and manage your personal and team prompt library.</li>\n<li><strong>Instant Copy/Share:</strong> Copy prompts in a tap or share with a team or community.</li>\n<li><strong>Enhance Prompts:</strong> Use built-in AI to rewrite, expand, or improve existing prompts.</li>\n</ul>\n<p>PromptKit is available on the <a href=\"https://apps.apple.com/us/app/promptkit-ai-generator/id6504561145\">App Store</a>.</p>\n<hr/>\n<h2>The Problem</h2>\n<p>AI is powerful, but managing effective prompts is overwhelming:</p>\n<ul>\n<li>Users waste time searching for the right prompt, rewriting or remembering instructions.</li>\n<li>There isn’t a great way to save, organize, and reuse or share prompts across models.</li>\n<li>Teams need structure and inspiration to supercharge their AI workflows.</li>\n</ul>\n<hr/>\n<h2>The Opportunity</h2>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>AI is mainstream, but prompt management is fragmented and ad hoc.</strong></li>\n<li><strong>Open models (ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, etc.) rapidly evolve, making cross-comparison critical.</strong></li>\n<li><strong>Professionals and teams are ready to pay for tools that help maximize their AI investments.</strong></li>\n</ul>\n<hr/>\n<h2>The Goal</h2>\n<p>Build the most useful, fast, and user-friendly prompt workflow toolkit for individuals and teams working with AI.</p>\n<ul>\n<li>Help users organize, reuse, and enhance their best prompts.</li>\n<li>Make creativity and experimentation with AI fast and rewarding.</li>\n<li>Provide a bridge across popular AI models—making it easy to compare and improve results.</li>\n</ul>\n<hr/>\n<h2>My Role</h2>\n<p>Solo designer and developer (iOS, SwiftUI); UX/UI, product architecture, development, App Store launch, support, and ongoing marketing.</p>\n<hr/>\n<h2>Responsibilities</h2>\n<ul>\n<li>Investigated pain points and workflows of power users, AI professionals, content creators, and developers.</li>\n<li>Designed robust, flexible UI: prompt cards, categories, search, favorites, easy sharing.</li>\n<li>Integrated AI “enhance” features—refine and intelligently rewrite prompts.</li>\n<li>Built for privacy and speed: everything is local (with iCloud sync) and no user prompts are shared.</li>\n<li>Managed marketing, App Store assets, user support, and fast iteration based on feedback.</li>\n</ul>\n<hr/>\n<h2>The Result</h2>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Personal Library:</strong> Store, tag, and organize an unlimited array of prompts with favorites, keywords, and notes.</li>\n<li><strong>Rapid Productivity:</strong> Turn AI experimentation into a repeatable, organized workflow.</li>\n<li><strong>Prompt Enhance:</strong> Instantly clean up, expand, or optimize your existing prompts with built-in AI helpers.</li>\n<li><strong>Cross-Model Ready:</strong> Compare how prompts perform with different engines (ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, etc.).</li>\n<li><strong>Instant Share:</strong> Empower teamwork or the AI enthusiast community.</li>\n<li><strong>Beautiful iOS Experience:</strong> Intuitive, privacy-focused, and visually polished.</li>\n</ul>\n<hr/>\n<h2>Impact</h2>\n<ul>\n<li>Empowering marketers, content creators, students, developers, teams, and AI enthusiasts worldwide to get the best out of AI—faster.</li>\n<li>Saving users hours per week by making prompt management and retrieval painless.</li>\n<li>Early users praise its robust organization and the “Enhance” AI feature.</li>\n</ul>\n<hr/>\n<h2>Reviews</h2>\n<blockquote>\n<p>“This app is very useful for engineering custom AI prompts and for using their created prompts to do research and create post, study material (lessons), business ideas, and a host of other uses for AI, social media, business, work platforms. I highly recommend this app for AI novices and those needing to learn how to create and generate prompts.”<br/>\n– worldbfree4u</p>\n</blockquote>\n<blockquote>\n<p>“It brings the best in the use of AI tools by curating prompts that delivered the desired results.”<br/>\n– nmuyale</p>\n</blockquote>\n<blockquote>\n<p>“Prompt kit has definitely helped me to write more effective prompts for my AI prompts. Very effective! This app has taught me a lot about how to create more efficient prompts.”<br/>\n– Fredfred321</p>\n</blockquote>\n<hr/>\n<h2>What I Learned</h2>\n<ul>\n<li>Efficient prompt management is still a weak point in most AI workflows.</li>\n<li>AI-assist features directly in productivity apps dramatically boost user value.</li>\n<li>iOS users demand privacy, speed, and offline functionality—even for AI tools.</li>\n<li>Successful apps require continuous updates: responsiveness to user input is critical for growth and word of mouth.</li>\n</ul>\n<hr/>\n<h2>Takeaways</h2>\n<ul>\n<li>Embrace rapid iteration—user needs in the AI space change quickly.</li>\n<li>“Enhance” and AI-based meta-tools are true differentiators for power users and teams.</li>\n<li>Focused organization (tags, categories, favorites) transforms how users experience their AI “stack.”</li>\n<li>Simplicity and performance on mobile are key drivers of adoption.</li>\n</ul>\n<hr/>\n<h4>Ready to inspire your own AI workflow?</h4>\n<p>PromptKit is available now on the <a href=\"https://apps.apple.com/us/app/promptkit-ai-generator/id6504561145\">App Store</a>.</p>",
            "url": "https://www.lukassoukup.com/articles/promptkit",
            "title": "Building PromptKit: The AI Productivity App",
            "summary": "PromptKit is a productivity tool and prompt library designed to help individuals and teams get more out of AI—across ChatGPT, Claude, Gemini, Copilot, and more.",
            "date_modified": "2024-06-19T00:00:00.000Z",
            "author": {
                "name": "Lukas Soukup"
            }
        },
        {
            "id": "https://www.lukassoukup.com/articles/compot",
            "content_html": "<img alt=\"Compot app main screen\" srcSet=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fcompot-cover.8f1f841b.png&amp;w=3840&amp;q=75 1x\" src=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fcompot-cover.8f1f841b.png&amp;w=3840&amp;q=75\" width=\"2600\" height=\"1900\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" style=\"color:transparent\"/>\n<hr/>\n<h2>Project Overview</h2>\n<p><strong>Compot</strong> is a developer tool for iOS and SwiftUI engineers, bringing together a hand-picked library of 100+ reusable SwiftUI components, an integrated code editor, and a personal AI assistant—all in a beautiful, productivity-centered iOS app. Compot helps developers move from idea to production faster, letting them browse, generate, and organize SwiftUI code with AI support, all without needing any extra package dependencies.</p>\n<hr/>\n<h3>Project Duration</h3>\n<p>May 2024 – Present</p>\n<hr/>\n<h2>The Product</h2>\n<p>Compot transforms the iOS development process with:</p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>SwiftUI Component Library:</strong> Explore, preview, and copy 100+ clean, production-ready SwiftUI components—from custom buttons and modals to onboarding flows and paywall screens.</li>\n<li><strong>AI Code Generator:</strong> Instantly generate SwiftUI code by describing your UI in natural language or by uploading design screenshots.</li>\n<li><strong>AI Coding Assistant:</strong> Get always-on AI help—ask questions, request improvements, debug issues, or extend code snippets directly in-app.</li>\n<li><strong>No Dependencies:</strong> Copy and paste vanilla Swift code—no 3rd-party libraries, no lock-in.</li>\n<li><strong>Collections:</strong> Organize saved code snippets and components for your workflow or team projects.</li>\n<li><strong>Resource Discovery:</strong> Stay ahead with a curated feed of SwiftUI blogs, newsletters, and repositories.</li>\n<li><strong>Seamless Editor:</strong> Edit, tweak, and refine components within the app before exporting to Xcode.</li>\n</ul>\n<hr/>\n<h2>The Problem</h2>\n<p>iOS and SwiftUI developers face recurring challenges:</p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Reinventing the wheel:</strong> Most projects need similar components, but finding reliable, flexible code is tedious.</li>\n<li><strong>Bridging design and code:</strong> Translating Figma or hand-drawn ideas into SwiftUI is time-consuming, especially for solo developers or small teams.</li>\n<li><strong>Debugging and documentation:</strong> Troubleshooting and improving UI code can stall productivity when working solo or learning.</li>\n<li><strong>Fragmented Workflow:</strong> Swapping between resource sites, code editors, and chat assistants interrupts creative flow.</li>\n</ul>\n<hr/>\n<h2>The Opportunity</h2>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>SwiftUI adoption is exploding:</strong> Many devs need fast solutions, especially prototypes and MVPs.</li>\n<li><strong>Developers love focused tools:</strong> A dedicated mobile tool—library + code + AI—that fits right into their workflow.</li>\n<li><strong>AI is a natural fit:</strong> Context-aware AI can help generate, explain, refactor, or debug code, dramatically reducing bottlenecks.</li>\n<li><strong>Organizational features:</strong> Code organization and resource inspiration drive long-term value.</li>\n</ul>\n<hr/>\n<h2>The Goal</h2>\n<p>Empower developers to build better apps, faster:<br/>\nUnite crafted SwiftUI components, instant AI code generation, and always-available coding support in one mobile app—streamlining idea-to-shipping in days, not weeks.</p>\n<hr/>\n<h2>My Role</h2>\n<p>Solo designer, SwiftUI engineer, and product manager. Owned every aspect: competitive research, UX/UI, AI model integration, code parsing/validation, testing, App Store launch, marketing.</p>\n<hr/>\n<h2>Responsibilities</h2>\n<ul>\n<li>Audited design systems and leading SwiftUI apps to curate a broad, high-quality component library.</li>\n<li>Designed a mobile-first, developer-friendly UI for browsing, searching, previewing, and exporting code.</li>\n<li>Integrated AI for both code generation (text/image-driven) and contextual code assistance (debug, explain, optimize).</li>\n<li>Built collection and organization features to match how developers work and revisit code.</li>\n<li>Aggregated and regularly refreshed high-value external developer resources.</li>\n<li>Tuned onboarding, marketing, and App Store positioning for a technical audience.</li>\n</ul>\n<hr/>\n<h2>The Result</h2>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Fast, frictionless code reuse:</strong> Developers can browse, preview, and drop tested SwiftUI code directly into their projects.</li>\n<li><strong>From design to code in seconds:</strong> Natural language and screenshot input take the guesswork (and grunt work) out of UI prototyping.</li>\n<li><strong>On-demand AI assistance:</strong> No context-switching—get answers, suggestions, or improvements right as you work.</li>\n<li><strong>Personal code library:</strong> Organize by project, use case, or inspiration.</li>\n<li><strong>No lock-in:</strong> 100% vanilla Swift code—no framework dependencies, totally flexible.</li>\n<li><strong>Community-ready resources:</strong> Stay inspired and keep skills sharp with regularly curated learning channels.</li>\n</ul>\n<hr/>\n<h2>What I Learned</h2>\n<ul>\n<li>Developers trust tools that are open, transparent, and non-intrusive (no dependencies!).</li>\n<li>Code+AI’s value is maximized when assistance is instant, context-aware, and never interrupts flow.</li>\n<li>Organizational features and resource curation make the app not just a utility but part of a dev’s daily workflow.</li>\n<li>Clear, simple export to Xcode is critical—never lock users in, always empower them.</li>\n</ul>\n<hr/>\n<h2>Takeaways</h2>\n<ul>\n<li>Lowering barriers to high-quality UI code leads to better apps, faster launches, and happier users.</li>\n<li>Combining code resources, AI generation, and organizational tools unlocks a new level of developer productivity.</li>\n<li>Listening to real-world dev needs (from Reddit, Twitter, feedback) shapes the most relevant features.</li>\n<li>Product-led growth: developer word-of-mouth drives adoption and new ideas for the roadmap.</li>\n</ul>\n<hr/>\n<p><strong>Ready to code at the speed of thought?</strong><br/>\nCompot is now available on the <a href=\"https://apps.apple.com/us/app/swiftui-with-ai-compot/id6471916279\">App Store</a>.</p>",
            "url": "https://www.lukassoukup.com/articles/compot",
            "title": "Compot: Designing a SwiftUI Component Library with Built-In AI Coding Assistant",
            "summary": "Compot accelerates iOS app development by combining a premium SwiftUI component library with an AI-powered code editor and personal coding assistant.",
            "date_modified": "2024-05-29T00:00:00.000Z",
            "author": {
                "name": "Lukas Soukup"
            }
        },
        {
            "id": "https://www.lukassoukup.com/articles/heart2heart",
            "content_html": "<img alt=\"Heart2Heart main screen\" srcSet=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fheart2heart-cover.348a5810.png&amp;w=3840&amp;q=75 1x\" src=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fheart2heart-cover.348a5810.png&amp;w=3840&amp;q=75\" width=\"2600\" height=\"1900\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" style=\"color:transparent\"/>\n<hr/>\n<h2>Project Overview</h2>\n<p><strong>Heart2Heart</strong> is a dedicated relationship app for couples who want to cultivate intimacy, spark meaningful dialogue, and strengthen their emotional bond. With beautiful design and intuitive features, it provides the perfect space for thoughtful conversations—whether you are just starting out or have a lifetime of love behind you.</p>\n<hr/>\n<h3>Project Duration</h3>\n<p>May 2024 – Present</p>\n<hr/>\n<h2>The Product</h2>\n<p>Heart2Heart offers a curated and customizable experience to help partners engage in conversations that matter. Features include:</p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Create &amp; Answer Questions:</strong> Users can build their own questions and capture answers from themselves and their partner.</li>\n<li><strong>1,000+ Question Library:</strong> A deep trove of prompts and conversation starters tailored for couples at all stages.</li>\n<li><strong>Customizable Questions:</strong> Personalize prompts to fit your unique dynamic.</li>\n<li><strong>Insightful Additions:</strong> Add notes, highlights, summaries, or even gift/task ideas to any conversation.</li>\n<li><strong>Easy Sharing:</strong> Share individual questions or entire conversation threads to keep dialogue lively—even across distance.</li>\n<li><strong>Reminders for Connection:</strong> Gentle nudges help make meaningful conversation a healthy habit.</li>\n<li><strong>Privacy-First:</strong> No account needed; all data remains private and securely stored.</li>\n</ul>\n<p>Heart2Heart is available now on the <a href=\"https://apps.apple.com/us/app/couples-questions-heart2heart/id6501986735\">App Store</a>.</p>\n<hr/>\n<h2>The Problem</h2>\n<p>Modern life often distracts couples from deep communication, leading to routine conversations, missed emotional cues, and lost opportunities for growth together. Existing apps are either too clinical, or lack depth and privacy.</p>\n<hr/>\n<h2>The Opportunity</h2>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Meaningful dialogue</strong> is a foundation of healthy, rewarding relationships, and most couples crave new ways to connect.</li>\n<li>Many users seek <strong>curated, “guided” support</strong>—not generic chat apps.</li>\n<li><strong>Privacy and ease-of-use</strong> are essential for sensitive relationship topics.</li>\n<li>Timely reminders can turn good intentions into lifelong habits for stronger relationships.</li>\n</ul>\n<hr/>\n<h2>The Goal</h2>\n<p>Design an app that serves as a gentle catalyst for deeper conversations and personal growth between couples, while always protecting their privacy and making the experience delightful.</p>\n<hr/>\n<h2>My Role</h2>\n<p>Solo designer &amp; developer (iOS, SwiftUI). Full-stack responsibility—UX research, product/feature design, visual/UI design, code, App Store launch, ASO, support.</p>\n<hr/>\n<h2>Responsibilities</h2>\n<ul>\n<li>Designed the UI around elegance, simplicity, and emotional warmth</li>\n<li>Developed reminder &amp; notification flows that nurture habit formation without intrusion</li>\n<li>Built privacy-first local storage—no account, iCloud sharing if available</li>\n<li>Crafted conversational copy and assembled a diverse prompt library, covering all relationship phases and interests</li>\n<li>Created marketing assets and App Store presence</li>\n<li>Collected user feedback for ongoing feature improvements</li>\n</ul>\n<hr/>\n<h2>The Result</h2>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Engagement-first experience:</strong> Couples spend quality time together, guided by thought-provoking questions</li>\n<li><strong>Dynamic content:</strong> Over 1,000 prompts, plus easy customization for every relationship</li>\n<li><strong>Insight tools:</strong> Notes and summaries add context and preserve important memories or learnings</li>\n<li><strong>Privacy by default:</strong> Couples feel safe knowing their shared moments stay between them</li>\n<li><strong>Habit-forming:</strong> Reminder system helps couples communicate more regularly and intentionally</li>\n<li><strong>Beautiful, simple design:</strong> Modern UI with focus on emotional comfort and ease-of-use</li>\n</ul>\n<hr/>\n<h2>What I Learned</h2>\n<ul>\n<li>The right question at the right time can truly deepen relationships</li>\n<li>Customization and flexibility (adding personal questions, insights) are essential for diverse couples</li>\n<li>Habit-building features (reminders) are as important as the content itself</li>\n<li>Emotional tone, copywriting, and visual warmth all contribute to trust and engagement in relationship apps</li>\n</ul>\n<hr/>\n<h2>Takeaways</h2>\n<ul>\n<li>Relationship-building is a delicate domain—never compromise on privacy or emotional safety</li>\n<li>Thoughtful design, warm visuals, and curated content make connection enjoyable and easy</li>\n<li>Direct feedback from couples is invaluable for refining both utility and delight</li>\n</ul>\n<hr/>\n<p><strong>Ready to grow closer?</strong><br/>\nHeart2Heart is available now on the <a href=\"https://apps.apple.com/us/app/couples-questions-heart2heart/id6501986735\">App Store</a>.</p>",
            "url": "https://www.lukassoukup.com/articles/heart2heart",
            "title": "Heart2Heart: Designing an App for Deeper Connection",
            "summary": "Heart2Heart is an elegant question & conversation app designed to help couples nurture deeper, more meaningful relationships.",
            "date_modified": "2024-05-23T00:00:00.000Z",
            "author": {
                "name": "Lukas Soukup"
            }
        },
        {
            "id": "https://www.lukassoukup.com/articles/kindest",
            "content_html": "<img alt=\"Kindest app main screen\" srcSet=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fkindest-cover.5e2383ce.png&amp;w=3840&amp;q=75 1x\" src=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fkindest-cover.5e2383ce.png&amp;w=3840&amp;q=75\" width=\"2600\" height=\"1900\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" style=\"color:transparent\"/>\n<hr/>\n<h2>Project Overview</h2>\n<p><strong>Kindest</strong> is a thoughtfully-designed app that helps users focus on what matters most: their relationships. By organizing important connections and transforming nurturing actions into habits, Kindest empowers people to actively build happier, more fulfilling lives—with privacy, fun, and self-care always at the center.</p>\n<hr/>\n<h3>Project Duration</h3>\n<p>March 2024 – Present</p>\n<hr/>\n<h2>The Product</h2>\n<p>Kindest merges simple relationship management with playful, motivating features for real-life impact:</p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Add Relationships:</strong> Create and keep a visual record of friends, family, colleagues, partners, or anyone important in your life.</li>\n<li><strong>Progress Rings &amp; Streaks:</strong> Track your relationship-building actions visually. Turn caring for others (and yourself) into a motivating, rewarding experience.</li>\n<li><strong>Set Actions:</strong> Schedule daily, weekly, monthly, yearly, or one-time actions—like calls, hugs, check-ins, or birthdays. Never miss another important moment.</li>\n<li><strong>Reminders:</strong> Custom reminders ensure you consistently show up for your people. Actions can be color-coded and icon-personalized for quick recognition.</li>\n<li><strong>Keep Memories:</strong> Capture and link special moments, stories, or images to each relationship or action—preserving what matters.</li>\n<li><strong>Self-care Tracker:</strong> Don’t forget yourself! Schedule and track self-care like meditation, reflection, or rest.</li>\n<li><strong>Action Templates:</strong> Explore inspiration for connecting with different types of relationships—with dozens of actionable prompts.</li>\n<li><strong>Privacy-First:</strong> All data remains on-device. No account required, and no sharing—your details stay safe and private.</li>\n<li><strong>Kindest Plus:</strong> Start free, upgrade for unlimited relationships and premium features.</li>\n</ul>\n<hr/>\n<h2>The Problem</h2>\n<p>In a busy world, it’s easy to lose touch with meaningful relationships—or even neglect self-care. Existing solutions are either clinical (CRMs for business contacts), focused only on reminders, or lack the emotional and motivational design needed for real success.</p>\n<hr/>\n<h2>The Opportunity</h2>\n<ul>\n<li>Humans thrive on meaningful relationships, but <strong>intentional connections require habit, memory, and gentle prompting</strong>.</li>\n<li>Most people want to be kinder, more present, and thoughtful with those they love—but need a nudge and a way to track progress.</li>\n<li>Privacy and trust are vital, especially for sensitive relationships or personal notes.</li>\n</ul>\n<hr/>\n<h2>The Goal</h2>\n<p>Design a joyful, easy-to-use relationship manager that keeps users proactive in their connections—with reminders, memories, gamified motivation, and total privacy.</p>\n<hr/>\n<h2>My Role</h2>\n<p>Solo product designer and SwiftUI developer—end-to-end concept, research, interface design, logic/feature set, App Store strategy, and support.</p>\n<hr/>\n<h2>Responsibilities</h2>\n<ul>\n<li>Crafted a motivating UX: progress rings, streaks, and fun reminders</li>\n<li>Designed a flexible system supporting every kind of connection—from romance to friendship, work, and self-care</li>\n<li>Built visual memories attachment (text/photos) for rich, personalized storytelling</li>\n<li>Developed customizable reminders and action templates for quick setup and inspiration</li>\n<li>Created onboarding, marketing campaigns, and monitored subscriptions and user feedback for ongoing product growth</li>\n</ul>\n<hr/>\n<h2>The Result</h2>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Active Relationship Growth:</strong> Users are reminded to stay connected and nurture their important personal relationships.</li>\n<li><strong>Motivation through Gamification:</strong> Progress rings and streaks drive positive action, turning relationships into an engaging, rewarding practice.</li>\n<li><strong>Full-spectrum Care:</strong> Unique support for both connections with others and self-care means the app helps users thrive holistically.</li>\n<li><strong>Memories Preserved:</strong> Moments, photos, and notes can be recalled instantly—strengthening the bond to memories and people.</li>\n<li><strong>Private by Design:</strong> Users trust Kindest to keep their hearts and habits secure.</li>\n</ul>\n<hr/>\n<h2>What I Learned</h2>\n<ul>\n<li>Motivation and visual progress are key to turning good intentions into lasting habits</li>\n<li>Blending care for others and yourself is both unique and deeply valued</li>\n<li>Keeping data on device (no accounts, no sharing) builds irreplaceable trust with users</li>\n<li>Action inspiration and templates drive early user success and ongoing engagement</li>\n</ul>\n<hr/>\n<h2>Takeaways</h2>\n<ul>\n<li>Relationship care should be as easy and fun as habit-tracking or fitness</li>\n<li>Gamification plus privacy = real digital wellbeing for modern users</li>\n<li>Rich, multi-modal memories (images + text) can strengthen bonds over time</li>\n<li>Exceeding user expectations on privacy is just as important as adding new features</li>\n</ul>\n<hr/>\n<p><strong>Ready to nurture your connections?</strong><br/>\nKindest is available now on the <a href=\"https://apps.apple.com/us/app/relationship-tracker-kindest/id6453754317\">App Store</a>.</p>",
            "url": "https://www.lukassoukup.com/articles/kindest",
            "title": "Kindest: A Personal Relationship Manager for Happier, More Connected Lives",
            "summary": "Kindest is an iOS app helping users nurture and strengthen their relationships—through reminders, memories, inspiration, privacy, and a playful progress system.",
            "date_modified": "2024-03-07T00:00:00.000Z",
            "author": {
                "name": "Lukas Soukup"
            }
        },
        {
            "id": "https://www.lukassoukup.com/articles/sumio-mobile-app",
            "content_html": "<img alt=\"\" srcSet=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fsumioprofile.b41a6d80.png&amp;w=1920&amp;q=75 1x, /_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fsumioprofile.b41a6d80.png&amp;w=3840&amp;q=75 2x\" src=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fsumioprofile.b41a6d80.png&amp;w=3840&amp;q=75\" width=\"1571\" height=\"985\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" style=\"color:transparent\"/>\n<h2>Project overview</h2>\n<p>From research to high-fidelity prototypes, testing, and exploring, this project is ongoing work on a mobile app Sumio.</p>\n<h3>Project duration</h3>\n<p>March 2020 – Present</p>\n<h2>The product</h2>\n<p>Sumio is a mobile app for financial planning. It&#x27;s privacy-focused and includes a range of automation and visualization features that help users understand their money.\nThe <a href=\"https://sumio.app\">app</a> is available on the <a href=\"https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.fiduciaryapps.sumio\">Google Play Store</a> and the <a href=\"https://apps.apple.com/app/id1560198579\">Apple App Store</a>.</p>\n<h2>The problem</h2>\n<p>Most of us want to be safe and comfortable with our money, but we don’t know who can we trust, what are the options for investing and savings, how to achieve our goals, and ultimately how to build our wealth to retire.</p>\n<h2>The opportunity</h2>\n<ul>\n<li>Retirement has a new meaning and concerns us all.</li>\n<li>Open Banking is becoming a global standard.</li>\n<li>Financial and market data are available online.</li>\n</ul>\n<h2>The goal</h2>\n<p>Develop an honest and privacy-respecting tool for navigating finance and building personal wealth.</p>\n<ul>\n<li>Replace spreadsheets used for tracking Net Worth, portfolio, cash flow, etc.</li>\n<li>Replace outdated tools for financial planning and wealth management.</li>\n<li>Replace financial “advisors” who work as salesmen.</li>\n</ul>\n<h2>My role</h2>\n<p>Product designer, product manager, and project manager.</p>\n<h2>Responsibilities</h2>\n<p>I did (and still do) everything necessary to make Sumio successful. This includes UX research, prototyping, testing, preparing a roadmap for development, managing development, deployment to app stores, user support, managing store presence, and marketing.</p>\n<h2>The result</h2>\n<p>We launched MVP of Sumio. We wanted to learn and get feedback from users to validate its proposition. Right now, Sumio is focused on net worth tracking with automated market value updates for stocks, ETFs, precious metals, and crypto. It does currency conversions automatically and enables users to keep track of any asset and any liability in any world currency.</p>\n<p>It&#x27;s great to see Sumio growing and getting paying users, although it&#x27;s still the early version of the product.</p>\n<h2>Impact</h2>\n<p>Sumio offers an easy and private way to manage personal finance. It is an alternative to apps collecting personal data, or selling ads. It helps users to understand their money, and evaluate their financial decisions. The app has a generous free plan and is available globally in six languages.</p>\n<h3>Reviews</h3>\n<blockquote>\n<p>This app is just remarkable in all aspects.</p>\n</blockquote>\n<ul>\n<li>iOS User</li>\n</ul>\n<blockquote>\n<p>Complete net worth tracker, simple and effective, I love it!</p>\n</blockquote>\n<ul>\n<li>Android User</li>\n</ul>\n<h2>What I learned</h2>\n<ul>\n<li>\n<p>The roadmap for the development should be designed to enable the launching of a new feature or update of the app regularly every few weeks.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p>The only real validation of the product is to get users to pay for it. Only after I launched the app and got feedback from paying users, I could validate the value proposition.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p>Marketing of the product should start from day one. There is no reason to wait till just a few weeks before the launch. Building a community from the start (Twitter followers, email signups, etc.) is important. Even when the product is just an idea, sharing it and building a community around it can be very useful.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p>Enough time and effort must be dedicated to all the materials for stores and optimization of the app store presence.</p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n<h3>Takeaways</h3>\n<ul>\n<li>Launch as soon as possible, starting with even a very simple first version of the product.</li>\n<li>Continue launching as often as possible – update the app regularly.</li>\n<li>Having a community before the launch is a huge advantage.</li>\n<li>Stores are kingmakers.</li>\n<li>Import of financial data must be automated.</li>\n<li>Tracking Cash Flow is a must feature.</li>\n<li>Planning features shall add critical value.</li>\n<li>Having rich market data is a differentiator.</li>\n</ul>",
            "url": "https://www.lukassoukup.com/articles/sumio-mobile-app",
            "title": "Sumio: Designing a Privacy-First FinTech Mobile App",
            "summary": "Product design, UX research, and project management for Sumio (sumio.app) — an iOS & Android app for personal net worth and wealth management.",
            "date_modified": "2022-12-31T00:00:00.000Z",
            "author": {
                "name": "Lukas Soukup"
            }
        },
        {
            "id": "https://www.lukassoukup.com/articles/crafting-a-design-system-for-tacr",
            "content_html": "<img alt=\"\" srcSet=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fdesignsystem.31cfb5cf.png&amp;w=1920&amp;q=75 1x, /_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fdesignsystem.31cfb5cf.png&amp;w=3840&amp;q=75 2x\" src=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fdesignsystem.31cfb5cf.png&amp;w=3840&amp;q=75\" width=\"1467\" height=\"895\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" style=\"color:transparent\"/>\n<h2>Project overview</h2>\n<p><a href=\"https://tacr.cz/en\">Technology Agency of the Czech Republic</a> (TA CR) is a government agency providing financial support to science projects in the Czech Republic.\nTA CR decided to develop a new information system that would replace existing ones and needed a design system that would unify UX/UI and serve as a shared design library for developers.</p>\n<p>I worked on this project as a subcontractor for <a href=\"https://fnx.io\">Fnxio</a>, a software development company. Together with FNXio, we won the public tender for this project.</p>\n<h3>Project duration</h3>\n<p>December 2021 - February 2022</p>\n<h2>The challenge</h2>\n<p>The new system for TA CR is being developed by several contractors and suppliers. There is a risk that without a shared design system each developer will approach the UX/UI differently, and create its own design components and patterns, thus worsening the usability.</p>\n<h2>The goal</h2>\n<p>Deliver a design system and UI kit in Figma that would define UX/UI design for the new system, address accessibility, and recommend non-functional requirements and methodology for using UX design principles in TA CR.</p>\n<h2>My role</h2>\n<p>UX/UI designer and consultant responsible for all deliverables.</p>\n<h2>What I did</h2>\n<ul>\n<li>I started with the research and collected and reviewed all existing materials regarding current users and their expectations, internal TA CR goals, and requirements.</li>\n<li>Based on the research and industry best practices I established design directions including principles, values, and rules for accessibility.</li>\n<li>After I set design directions I made a list of styles and components that shall be part of the UI Kit.</li>\n<li>Created styles – set typography, colors, grids, layouts, and breakpoints.</li>\n<li>Designed 100+ components for key UI elements - navigation, buttons, rows, input fields, tables, etc.</li>\n<li>Created two interactive prototypes for registration and login using the UI Kit.</li>\n<li>Conducted user testing sessions to verify the proposed UI design works.</li>\n<li>Prepared materials for handover – UI Kit in Figma, Document with design principles and non-functional requirements.</li>\n<li>Modified the Lean UX methodology for TA CR and created basic templates for conducting UX research. Since TA CR is using Google Workspace I created these templates as Google Docs so they can be used and shared across TA CR.</li>\n<li>Conducted training for the internal team.</li>\n<li>Provided on-demand UX consultations.</li>\n</ul>\n<h2>The result</h2>\n<p>I delivered a comprehensive design system – DISTA – that can serve as a basis for the development of the new TA CR system.\nThe handover to TA CR was done the way the internal team learned the basics of UX design and got materials for conducting basic UX research on their own for continuous development of the new system.</p>",
            "url": "https://www.lukassoukup.com/articles/crafting-a-design-system-for-tacr",
            "title": "Creating a design system for the Technology Agency of the Czech Republic",
            "summary": "Crafting a design system for new information system and providing UX consultations for TA CR.",
            "date_modified": "2022-05-01T00:00:00.000Z",
            "author": {
                "name": "Lukas Soukup"
            }
        },
        {
            "id": "https://www.lukassoukup.com/articles/career-coaching-app",
            "content_html": "<img alt=\"\" srcSet=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fontrak.32b0f7c7.png&amp;w=1920&amp;q=75 1x, /_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fontrak.32b0f7c7.png&amp;w=3840&amp;q=75 2x\" src=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fontrak.32b0f7c7.png&amp;w=3840&amp;q=75\" width=\"1304\" height=\"829\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" style=\"color:transparent\"/>\n<h2>Project overview</h2>\n<p>Imagine getting a professional to help you with your career would be as easy as ordering a cab online. That is a mission of Ontrak. It&#x27;s a career coaching service specializing in\nhelping new graduates in getting on their career path.\nIt provides career coaching and services like career\nplanning, resume writing, and job interview training.\nOntrak’s primary target users are new graduates and\nyoung adults who are starting their careers and looking\nfor help and support in finding a job.</p>\n<p>This project was part of my UX design certification.</p>\n<h3>Project duration</h3>\n<p>March 2022 - April 2022</p>\n<h2>The problem</h2>\n<p>It is not easy to find help and support for\ngetting on a satisfying career path. It is\nchallenging to know how to prepare for\nprofessional life, especially for new graduates\nand young adults who are starting their\ncareers and looking for their first jobs.</p>\n<h2>The goal</h2>\n<p>Design an accessible mobile app and a\nsupporting responsive website that will enable\nusers easily find a career coach.</p>\n<h2>My role</h2>\n<p>UX designer designing the app and the website\nfrom conception to the final design.</p>\n<h2>Responsibilities</h2>\n<p>The complete product design process, conducting of user\ninterviews, paper and digital wireframing,\nprototyping, the definition of the brand, and visual\nlanguage, accounting for accessibility, iterating\non designs, determining information\narchitecture, and responsive design.</p>\n<h2>User research</h2>\n<p>I conducted research to understand how potential users view career coaching, and what services they\nwould expect to get, what the ideal career coaching service should look like, and if they would\nprefer in-person or online channels.</p>\n<p>I used Slack and LinkedIn groups to get in touch with potential respondents and collect inputs.</p>\n<p>The research confirmed that career coaching could be interesting and useful service that people would consider and use online.</p>\n<h3>Painpoints</h3>\n<ul>\n<li>\n<p>Not sure what is a career coach: it is not clear how career coaching works, and what to expect from such a service.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p>Don’t know where to go or where to look: not knowing where to go for help, who could help, where to find a coach.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p>Finding &amp; choosing a career coach: finding the right coach for a specific situation and need is not easy.</p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n<h2>User personas</h2>\n<p>Based on my research I established two user personas and identified their frustrations and goals regarding career planning.</p>\n<h3>Persona 1: Jeremy</h3>\n<img alt=\"\" srcSet=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fjeremy.1d3306b2.png&amp;w=1080&amp;q=75 1x, /_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fjeremy.1d3306b2.png&amp;w=1920&amp;q=75 2x\" src=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fjeremy.1d3306b2.png&amp;w=1920&amp;q=75\" width=\"960\" height=\"540\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" style=\"color:transparent\"/>\n<p>Jeremy is starting his\ncareer and wants to\nbecome an expert in the\nfield of AI.</p>\n<h3>Persona 2: Lily</h3>\n<img alt=\"\" srcSet=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Flily.37f6512f.png&amp;w=1080&amp;q=75 1x, /_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Flily.37f6512f.png&amp;w=1920&amp;q=75 2x\" src=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Flily.37f6512f.png&amp;w=1920&amp;q=75\" width=\"960\" height=\"540\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" style=\"color:transparent\"/>\n<p>Lily just finished her\nstudies and would like to\nget help with starting\nand building her career\nas an artist.</p>\n<h2>User journey map</h2>\n<p>I wanted to understand how people are fulfilling their goals now regarding career planning, and a user journey map is a handy tool for this.</p>\n<h3>Jeremy: Getting help with starting a career</h3>\n<img alt=\"\" srcSet=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2FUser-Journey-Map-Jeremy-ITGraduate-Website.74a33140.png&amp;w=1080&amp;q=75 1x, /_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2FUser-Journey-Map-Jeremy-ITGraduate-Website.74a33140.png&amp;w=1920&amp;q=75 2x\" src=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2FUser-Journey-Map-Jeremy-ITGraduate-Website.74a33140.png&amp;w=1920&amp;q=75\" width=\"960\" height=\"540\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" style=\"color:transparent\"/>\n<p>Mapping Jeremy’s journey\nshowed the app could be\nhelpful by giving him a\nchance to consult experts\nand get help with the\npreparation of his\nprofessional profile and\nresume.</p>\n<h3>Lily: Earn enough and pursue her dream of becoming an artist</h3>\n<img alt=\"\" srcSet=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2FUser-Journey-Map-Lily-ArtsGraduate-App.601f6db6.png&amp;w=1080&amp;q=75 1x, /_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2FUser-Journey-Map-Lily-ArtsGraduate-App.601f6db6.png&amp;w=1920&amp;q=75 2x\" src=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2FUser-Journey-Map-Lily-ArtsGraduate-App.601f6db6.png&amp;w=1920&amp;q=75\" width=\"960\" height=\"540\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" style=\"color:transparent\"/>\n<p>Mapping Lily’s journey\nshowed the app could be\nhelpful in addressing Lily’s\nneed of finding help by\nintroducing experts who\ncould provide their advice\nregarding a career in arts.</p>\n<h2>Competitive audit</h2>\n<p>There are already successful businesses offering career coaching and providing help with career planning. I wanted to make sure I have a basic understanding of the competition to Ontrak and conducted an audit.</p>\n<img alt=\"\" srcSet=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Faudit.5a214f65.png&amp;w=1080&amp;q=75 1x, /_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Faudit.5a214f65.png&amp;w=1920&amp;q=75 2x\" src=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Faudit.5a214f65.png&amp;w=1920&amp;q=75\" width=\"960\" height=\"540\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" style=\"color:transparent\"/>\n<p>An audit of available career coaching services helped me get insights into how is career coaching communicated and what services are already offered.</p>\n<h2>Ideation</h2>\n<p>I decided to focus on\nsearching/finding a career\ncoach journey. Creating a guide that\nwould make finding the\ncoach for specific situations\neasy and smooth.</p>\n<h2>Digital wireframes</h2>\n<p>My goal was to make the app\nstraightforward. It should be clear\nfrom the first moment a user\nopens the app what the app\ncan do.</p>\n<img alt=\"\" srcSet=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fontrak-wireframes.be3c99ed.png&amp;w=1920&amp;q=75 1x, /_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fontrak-wireframes.be3c99ed.png&amp;w=3840&amp;q=75 2x\" src=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fontrak-wireframes.be3c99ed.png&amp;w=3840&amp;q=75\" width=\"1894\" height=\"1348\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" style=\"color:transparent\"/>\n<p>I designed the flow for the guide\nand also the flow for scheduling\nthe consultation with a coach.</p>\n<h2>Usability study</h2>\n<p>I conducted a moderated usability study with 5 participants, remotely, via a video call.</p>\n<h3>Findings</h3>\n<ul>\n<li>Guiding users: Users were able to find a coach using the guide, and it worked for them.</li>\n<li>Coach Details: Users expected more details about each coach.</li>\n<li>Onboarding: The onboarding process could make the mission of the app clear.</li>\n</ul>\n<h2>High-fidelity prototype</h2>\n<p>I used the results of usability testing a created a high-fidelity prototype. I made the app “clean” and easy to use.</p>\n<img alt=\"\" srcSet=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fontrak-mobile-app-prototype.be07a008.png&amp;w=2048&amp;q=75 1x, /_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fontrak-mobile-app-prototype.be07a008.png&amp;w=3840&amp;q=75 2x\" src=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fontrak-mobile-app-prototype.be07a008.png&amp;w=3840&amp;q=75\" width=\"2008\" height=\"1534\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" style=\"color:transparent\"/>\n<p>The final high-fidelity\nprototype enables users\nto find a career coach\nusing the guide and\nschedule a free\nconsultation with a\ncareer coach.</p>\n<h2>Accessibility considerations</h2>\n<ul>\n<li>\n<p>The app can help users\nfind the right coach for\ntheir situation or need\nusing the interactive guide.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p>Answering just 3 questions will\nfilter from all the available\ncoaches the right ones.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p>Icons and buttons with\ndescriptions shall help\nmake the app easy to\nnavigate.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p>Bigger font and clean\ndesign including the color\nscheme shall provide a\nconvenient user\nexperience for most\nusers.</p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n<h2>Website design</h2>\n<p>After I finished the mobile\napp I started to explore\nhow to make a website that\nwould work well on mobile\ndevices and also desktops.\nThe website would promote\nthe mobile app and could\nwork also as a web\napplication itself.</p>\n<h2>Sitemap</h2>\n<img alt=\"\" srcSet=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fsitemap.7178e4c2.png&amp;w=1080&amp;q=75 1x, /_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fsitemap.7178e4c2.png&amp;w=1920&amp;q=75 2x\" src=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fsitemap.7178e4c2.png&amp;w=1920&amp;q=75\" width=\"960\" height=\"540\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" style=\"color:transparent\"/>\n<p>I started with the information architecture and created a sitemap for the website.</p>\n<h2>Wireframes</h2>\n<p>I continued with creating wireframes for the desktop website.</p>\n<img alt=\"\" srcSet=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fdesktopwireframes.95939157.png&amp;w=3840&amp;q=75 1x\" src=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fdesktopwireframes.95939157.png&amp;w=3840&amp;q=75\" width=\"7600\" height=\"4290\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" style=\"color:transparent\"/>\n<h2>Design mockup</h2>\n<p>And finished with a design mockup.</p>\n<img alt=\"\" srcSet=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fdesktopwebsite.43e66689.png&amp;w=3840&amp;q=75 1x\" src=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fdesktopwebsite.43e66689.png&amp;w=3840&amp;q=75\" width=\"9242\" height=\"3426\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" style=\"color:transparent\"/>\n<h2>Responsive design</h2>\n<p>I explored how to\nmake the website\nwork smoothly on\ndifferent displays and created versions for mobile, tablet, and desktop views.</p>\n<img alt=\"\" srcSet=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fresponsive.86b4bde9.png&amp;w=3840&amp;q=75 1x\" src=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fresponsive.86b4bde9.png&amp;w=3840&amp;q=75\" width=\"6096\" height=\"3531\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" style=\"color:transparent\"/>\n<h2>The result</h2>\n<p>The Ontrak shall enable users easily find a\ncareer coach and schedule a consultation thus\nhelping them in finding help for making\nimportant life decisions.</p>",
            "url": "https://www.lukassoukup.com/articles/career-coaching-app",
            "title": "Designing a mobile app and responsive website for Ontrak",
            "summary": "UX/UI design project of a mobile app and a supporting responsive website for career coaching.",
            "date_modified": "2022-04-30T00:00:00.000Z",
            "author": {
                "name": "Lukas Soukup"
            }
        },
        {
            "id": "https://www.lukassoukup.com/articles/online-bank",
            "content_html": "<img alt=\"\" srcSet=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fonlinebank.8fc628c6.png&amp;w=3840&amp;q=75 1x\" src=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fonlinebank.8fc628c6.png&amp;w=3840&amp;q=75\" width=\"2184\" height=\"1549\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" style=\"color:transparent\"/>\n<h2>Project overview</h2>\n<p>Imagine using an online bank would be as easy as using an email client. That is the Hani Bank. Hani Bank’s mission is to make sending and receiving\nmoney as easy as sending and receiving emails. Services\nof Hani Bank are available globally. Hani Bank supports\nall world currencies with instant transfers to\nbanks everywhere. Hani Bank offers personal and\nbusiness accounts, all available online.</p>\n<p>This project was part of my UX design certification.</p>\n<h3>Project duration</h3>\n<p>February 2022 – March 2022</p>\n<h2>The challenge</h2>\n<p>Opening a bank account is often a messy\nprocess with lots of friction. Somehow even for online banks, it is not easy to make opening a bank account easy and comfortable for users.</p>\n<h2>The goal</h2>\n<p>Design a sign-up process for an online bank\nthat will be easy to complete.</p>\n<h2>My role</h2>\n<p>UX designer designing the website with the sign-up to Hani\nBank online, from a concept to the final design.</p>\n<h2>Responsibilities</h2>\n<p>The whole UX design process, including user\nresearch, wireframing, and prototyping.</p>\n<h2>User research</h2>\n<p>I started with the research and conducted interviews with potential users to understand their experience with banks and particularly with online\nbanking.</p>\n<p>A primary user group identified through the research was active adults who are\ntechnologically savvy.</p>\n<p>The research confirmed that users are expecting the sign-up process to be easy and quick, and that\ncurrent online bank offerings are not meeting their expectations.</p>\n<h3>Pain points</h3>\n<ul>\n<li>\n<p>Banking Experience: It is complicated and banks are interested mostly in just selling loans, not providing the tools and support for the key functionalities.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p>Navigation: The banking websites are cluttered with stuff and offers. It is not easy to easily find what one needs.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p>Automation: Users have to do a lot of basic tasks manually even though it would be possible to automate some of them.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p>Lack of functionalities: Banks are focused on selling additional products but not enhancing the key functionalities for payments and transfers.</p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n<h3>User Persona</h3>\n<p>Based on my research I created a user persona representing the target audience.</p>\n<img alt=\"\" srcSet=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fbono.e05471b3.png&amp;w=1080&amp;q=75 1x, /_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fbono.e05471b3.png&amp;w=1920&amp;q=75 2x\" src=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fbono.e05471b3.png&amp;w=1920&amp;q=75\" width=\"960\" height=\"540\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" style=\"color:transparent\"/>\n<p>Bono is a busy freelancer\nwho needs to send and\nreceive money flawlessly\nbecause he wants to\nhave his finances under\ncontrol.</p>\n<h3>Empathy Map</h3>\n<p>I wanted to have good insights into my target audience and created an empathy map that would later help me make the right design decisions.</p>\n<img alt=\"\" srcSet=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fempathymap.9a6631f5.png&amp;w=1080&amp;q=75 1x, /_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fempathymap.9a6631f5.png&amp;w=1920&amp;q=75 2x\" src=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fempathymap.9a6631f5.png&amp;w=1920&amp;q=75\" width=\"960\" height=\"540\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" style=\"color:transparent\"/>\n<h3>User Journey Map</h3>\n<p>I continued with mapping the current user experience with the opening of a bank account.</p>\n<img alt=\"\" srcSet=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2FUser-Journey-Map-Bono.cb6594b9.png&amp;w=1080&amp;q=75 1x, /_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2FUser-Journey-Map-Bono.cb6594b9.png&amp;w=1920&amp;q=75 2x\" src=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2FUser-Journey-Map-Bono.cb6594b9.png&amp;w=1920&amp;q=75\" width=\"960\" height=\"540\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" style=\"color:transparent\"/>\n<h2>Information architecture</h2>\n<p>I wanted to set a scope for my design, and have a list of screens with their purpose, and therefore I created a simple sitemap.</p>\n<img alt=\"\" srcSet=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fsitemap.a385e9fc.png&amp;w=1080&amp;q=75 1x, /_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fsitemap.a385e9fc.png&amp;w=1920&amp;q=75 2x\" src=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fsitemap.a385e9fc.png&amp;w=1920&amp;q=75\" width=\"960\" height=\"540\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" style=\"color:transparent\"/>\n<p>My goal was to make the website &quot;clean&quot; and easy to navigate.</p>\n<h2>Wireframes</h2>\n<p>I sketched a few variants of\na website on paper, but soon moved to Figma and created digital wireframes.</p>\n<img alt=\"\" srcSet=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fwireframes.1e7cb6eb.png&amp;w=1080&amp;q=75 1x, /_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fwireframes.1e7cb6eb.png&amp;w=1920&amp;q=75 2x\" src=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fwireframes.1e7cb6eb.png&amp;w=1920&amp;q=75\" width=\"960\" height=\"540\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" style=\"color:transparent\"/>\n<p>I wanted to find a simple\nstructure that would work\nfor large screens but also\nfor small screens of tablets\nand cell phones.</p>\n<h2>Low-fidelity prototype</h2>\n<p>As soon as I was happy with the wireframes I designed a low-fidelity prototype.</p>\n<img alt=\"\" srcSet=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Flofidelity.76b8eda9.png&amp;w=1080&amp;q=75 1x, /_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Flofidelity.76b8eda9.png&amp;w=1920&amp;q=75 2x\" src=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Flofidelity.76b8eda9.png&amp;w=1920&amp;q=75\" width=\"960\" height=\"540\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" style=\"color:transparent\"/>\n<p>I decided to design the sign-up process as a conversation with a chatbot that would guide the user.</p>\n<p>Creating a low-fidelity prototype was a necessary prerequisite for the validation of this decision.</p>\n<h2>Usability study</h2>\n<p>I wanted to make sure the sign-up process designed as a conversation would work and therefore I conducted a usability study.\nIt was a moderated usability study I did remotely via video call.\nI asked users to sign-up for a bank account online using the low-fidelity prototype.</p>\n<h3>Findings</h3>\n<ol>\n<li>The conversational design was not working for most of the users.</li>\n<li>Users were complaining about the copy/texts – too long, and not clear enough.</li>\n</ol>\n<p><strong>Based on the findings from the usability study I redesigned the process.</strong></p>\n<h2>Redesign</h2>\n<p>I switched to the standard design of a sign-up process using a form and made a chat/conversation\nmode only an option.</p>\n<p>I designed a high-fidelity mockup of the sign-up form.</p>\n<img alt=\"\" srcSet=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fmockups.c9a85882.png&amp;w=1080&amp;q=75 1x, /_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fmockups.c9a85882.png&amp;w=1920&amp;q=75 2x\" src=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fmockups.c9a85882.png&amp;w=1920&amp;q=75\" width=\"960\" height=\"540\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" style=\"color:transparent\"/>\n<h3>High-fidelity prototype – desktop</h3>\n<img alt=\"\" srcSet=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fhighfidelityprototype.993c881f.png&amp;w=3840&amp;q=75 1x\" src=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fhighfidelityprototype.993c881f.png&amp;w=3840&amp;q=75\" width=\"2270\" height=\"922\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" style=\"color:transparent\"/>\n<p>I created the high-fidelity prototype of the whole sign-up process for the desktop.</p>\n<h3>High-fidelity prototype – mobile</h3>\n<img alt=\"\" srcSet=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fhighfidelitymobile.d662fc28.png&amp;w=1920&amp;q=75 1x, /_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fhighfidelitymobile.d662fc28.png&amp;w=3840&amp;q=75 2x\" src=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fhighfidelitymobile.d662fc28.png&amp;w=3840&amp;q=75\" width=\"1652\" height=\"840\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" style=\"color:transparent\"/>\n<p>And finished with the high-fidelity prototype for mobile.</p>\n<h2>Accessibility considerations</h2>\n<ul>\n<li>\n<p>Bigger font: I used a bigger font and\ntried to make the texts\neasy to read.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p>Negative space: I wanted to make the\ncontent easy to navigate\nusing a lot of white space,\ntrying to make it clean.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p>Icons: I used icons to\ncommunicate the features\nof online banking.</p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n<h2>The result</h2>\n<p>It is definitely possible to make the sign-up process to an online bank simple.\nI think the key is to ask users only for the necessary details, not forcing them to provide everything.\nLots of verification and checks can be done &quot;behind the scenes&quot; or afterward by the bank itself.</p>\n<h3>The impact</h3>\n<p>Making it easy to open a bank account and\nusing online banking is important because it\nmakes modern banking accessible to people who would otherwise be\ndiscouraged and would not be able to benefit\nfrom managing their money online.</p>\n<h3>What I learned</h3>\n<ul>\n<li>I thought conversation design would be the ideal solution, but it was not. Users wanted to have just a simple form to sign-up, they did not want to chat with a chatbot.</li>\n<li>Writing a copy is very tricky and it requires a lot of effort to make the texts clear and easy to understand.</li>\n</ul>",
            "url": "https://www.lukassoukup.com/articles/online-bank",
            "title": "Designing a sign-up process for an online bank",
            "summary": "UX/UI design project to design a responsive website for opening a bank account online.",
            "date_modified": "2022-03-31T00:00:00.000Z",
            "author": {
                "name": "Lukas Soukup"
            }
        },
        {
            "id": "https://www.lukassoukup.com/articles/art-gallery-app",
            "content_html": "<img alt=\"\" srcSet=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fartgalleryscreens.f1d9ce09.png&amp;w=1920&amp;q=75 1x, /_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fartgalleryscreens.f1d9ce09.png&amp;w=3840&amp;q=75 2x\" src=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fartgalleryscreens.f1d9ce09.png&amp;w=3840&amp;q=75\" width=\"1435\" height=\"975\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" style=\"color:transparent\"/>\n<h2>Project overview</h2>\n<p>Imagine a gallery where you can see the best modern art, but also visit exhibitions focused on classic masterpieces. That is Art Gallery. It&#x27;s a gallery in Prague on a mission to make art accessible to anyone and wants to offer a new mobile app that would make scheduling and checking in for tours a breeze.</p>\n<p>This project was part of my UX design certification.</p>\n<h3>Project duration</h3>\n<p>December 2021 – February 2022</p>\n<h2>The problem</h2>\n<p>Booking a tour is a tedious process with a lot of friction.</p>\n<h2>The goal</h2>\n<p>Design an app allowing users\nto easily book a tour for an exhibition.</p>\n<h2>My role</h2>\n<p>UX/UI designer designing the mobile app,\nfrom research, through concept, to the final high-fidelity design and prototype.</p>\n<h2>Responsibilities</h2>\n<p>I conducted all the steps of the UX Design\nprocess, including user research, ideation,\nwireframing, prototyping, and usability testing.</p>\n<h2>User research</h2>\n<p>I conducted interviews with potential users to understand their preferences\nregarding visits to galleries.</p>\n<p>A primary user group identified through the research was young working adults who\nlive in the city.</p>\n<p>The research confirmed that making an app with easy booking could make visiting the art gallery\nappealing to a broader audience.</p>\n<h3>Pain points</h3>\n<ul>\n<li>\n<p>Getting information: Getting information about the available exhibitions and exploring options for tours shall be easy.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p>Time: Everyone is busy and no one wants to go to a gallery just to realize tickets are not available or it is crowded.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p>Availability: Booking a tour or buying a ticket is usually available only on the website.</p>\n</li>\n<li>\n<p>Notifications: Forgetting about the exhibition or not knowing there is an exhibition with art users are interested in.</p>\n</li>\n</ul>\n<h2>User Persona</h2>\n<p>Creating a user persona helped me to focus on the target audience.</p>\n<img alt=\"\" srcSet=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fmimi.3cfcabc4.png&amp;w=1080&amp;q=75 1x, /_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fmimi.3cfcabc4.png&amp;w=1920&amp;q=75 2x\" src=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fmimi.3cfcabc4.png&amp;w=1920&amp;q=75\" width=\"960\" height=\"540\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" style=\"color:transparent\"/>\n<p>Mimi is a busy working\nadult who needs an easy\nway to book a tour of an\nart gallery based on her\nschedule because she\nhas limited free time.</p>\n<h2>User journey map</h2>\n<p>I wanted to better understand how users currently get information about and visit current exhibitions. I created a User Journey Map that gave me a picture of the whole process.</p>\n<img alt=\"\" srcSet=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fuserjourneymap.166228de.png&amp;w=1080&amp;q=75 1x, /_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fuserjourneymap.166228de.png&amp;w=1920&amp;q=75 2x\" src=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fuserjourneymap.166228de.png&amp;w=1920&amp;q=75\" width=\"960\" height=\"540\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" style=\"color:transparent\"/>\n<p>Mapping Mimi’s journey\nshowed how the app could help address\nMimi’s frustrations by providing an easy way to explore available art exhibitions and book a tour.</p>\n<h2>Design</h2>\n<p>I started to sketch the app and soon created the first digital wireframes and mockups for the key screens of the app.</p>\n<img alt=\"\" srcSet=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fwireframes.a64bdb29.png&amp;w=1920&amp;q=75 1x, /_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fwireframes.a64bdb29.png&amp;w=3840&amp;q=75 2x\" src=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fwireframes.a64bdb29.png&amp;w=3840&amp;q=75\" width=\"1652\" height=\"1302\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" style=\"color:transparent\"/>\n<p>Since the app is about visual art I\ndecided the focus should be\non pictures.</p>\n<p>As soon as users open the\napp they can browse exhibitions, search\nfor exhibitions, see\nnotifications, and carousel\nwith special offers and\nannouncements.</p>\n<h2>Low-fidelity prototype</h2>\n<p>I wanted the booking of a tour to be easy, and\nsimilar to scheduling a meeting. I created a prototype to be able to test with users.</p>\n<img alt=\"\" srcSet=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Flofidelity.bbe9b7ff.png&amp;w=3840&amp;q=75 1x\" src=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Flofidelity.bbe9b7ff.png&amp;w=3840&amp;q=75\" width=\"2252\" height=\"1550\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" style=\"color:transparent\"/>\n<h2>Usability study</h2>\n<p>I conducted two rounds of usability testing.\nThe findings from the first study helped me make\ndecisions regarding the booking process.</p>\n<h3>Round 1</h3>\n<ul>\n<li>Users were not sure where to start.</li>\n<li>Users were not sure how to find the\nexhibition.</li>\n<li>Users were not sure about the\ndifference between tickets and tours.</li>\n</ul>\n<p>I modified the design and did a second usability study.</p>\n<p>The findings from the second study helped me to refine the\nelements/screens and gave me insights regarding the overall user experience.</p>\n<h3>Round 2</h3>\n<ul>\n<li>It was not clear when the payment\nhappened.</li>\n<li>The ticket screen was not clear.</li>\n<li>The notification bell icon rather than\nthe shopping cart icon.</li>\n</ul>\n<h2>Refining the design</h2>\n<img alt=\"\" srcSet=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Frefine.ea050e44.png&amp;w=1920&amp;q=75 1x, /_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Frefine.ea050e44.png&amp;w=3840&amp;q=75 2x\" src=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Frefine.ea050e44.png&amp;w=3840&amp;q=75\" width=\"1916\" height=\"1542\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" style=\"color:transparent\"/>\n<p>I realized the booking\nprocess should be simpler.\nI moved the step with\nchoosing the number of\ntickets, date, and time\ntogether and made it a first\nstep of the booking process.</p>\n<img alt=\"\" srcSet=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fprototype.f2121190.png&amp;w=1920&amp;q=75 1x, /_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fprototype.f2121190.png&amp;w=3840&amp;q=75 2x\" src=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fprototype.f2121190.png&amp;w=3840&amp;q=75\" width=\"1714\" height=\"852\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" style=\"color:transparent\"/>\n<p>The final high-fidelity\nprototype enables users\nto explore current exhibitions and buy a ticket/book a tour.</p>\n<img alt=\"\" srcSet=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fartgallery.66997cde.png&amp;w=1920&amp;q=75 1x, /_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fartgallery.66997cde.png&amp;w=3840&amp;q=75 2x\" src=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fartgallery.66997cde.png&amp;w=3840&amp;q=75\" width=\"1344\" height=\"876\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" style=\"color:transparent\"/>\n<h2>The result</h2>\n<p>The question was – can I make the booking of a tour in the Art Gallery delightful? The answer is yes!\nThe app enables users to easily book a\ntour for an art exhibition and thus making it\neasier to visit and enjoy art.</p>\n<h3>The impact</h3>\n<p>Making it easier and more convenient to visit galleries would make art more accessible to a broader audience.</p>\n<h2>What I learned</h2>\n<ul>\n<li>Users want to use full-text search and search for their favorite artists or art.</li>\n<li>The app could offer not only a way to book a tour at art exhibitions but also tours at castles and other venues.</li>\n</ul>",
            "url": "https://www.lukassoukup.com/articles/art-gallery-app",
            "title": "Designing a mobile app for booking a tour",
            "summary": "UX/UI design project of a mobile app for booking tours at the art gallery.",
            "date_modified": "2022-02-28T00:00:00.000Z",
            "author": {
                "name": "Lukas Soukup"
            }
        },
        {
            "id": "https://www.lukassoukup.com/articles/development-of-lukybot-virtual-chief-robot-officer",
            "content_html": "<img alt=\"\" srcSet=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Flukybot.29d9c5c8.png&amp;w=3840&amp;q=75 1x\" src=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Flukybot.29d9c5c8.png&amp;w=3840&amp;q=75\" width=\"2370\" height=\"1016\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" style=\"color:transparent\"/>\n<h2>Project overview</h2>\n<p>This project was conducted for my company LukyLab as part of a journey to learn new AI technologies.</p>\n<h3>Project duration</h3>\n<p>May 2018 — September 2021</p>\n<h2>The product</h2>\n<p>LukyBot was a chatbot available 24/7 and designed as a sales manager who was explaining LukyLab services and collecting leads for potential clients.</p>\n<h2>The problem</h2>\n<p>Using just static content to present a company and demonstrate its capabilities might not be enough to make potential clients interested in company services.</p>\n<h2>The goal</h2>\n<p>Design a conversation and develop a chatbot that would explain how LukyLab is helping clients and collect leads.</p>\n<h2>My role</h2>\n<p>Conversation designer and developer of a chatbot.</p>\n<h2>Responsibilities</h2>\n<ul>\n<li>Conversation design.</li>\n<li>Development of the application itself.</li>\n<li>Integration with other systems.</li>\n<li>Legal docs.</li>\n</ul>\n<h2>The result</h2>\n<p>Lukybot was integrated with the LukyLab company website, Facebook Messenger and Slack.\nUsing conversation, it explained LukyLab&#x27;s services, history, projects, and collected leads for potential clients.</p>\n<p>Creating chatbots is fun, and they could bring real value to users, because they can be available 24/7 to solve their issues.</p>\n<p>I created other chatbots and this hands-on experience helped me when I was working as a contractor on chatbots and voicebots for T-Mobile Czech Republic and Slovak Telekom.</p>",
            "url": "https://www.lukassoukup.com/articles/development-of-lukybot-virtual-chief-robot-officer",
            "title": "Developing a chatbot for sales and marketing",
            "summary": "Conversation design and development of a chatbot.",
            "date_modified": "2022-01-01T00:00:00.000Z",
            "author": {
                "name": "Lukas Soukup"
            }
        },
        {
            "id": "https://www.lukassoukup.com/articles/establishing-a-subsidiary-company-in-switzerland",
            "content_html": "<img alt=\"\" srcSet=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fabra.b9ea81c7.png&amp;w=1080&amp;q=75 1x, /_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fabra.b9ea81c7.png&amp;w=3840&amp;q=75 2x\" src=\"/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fabra.b9ea81c7.png&amp;w=3840&amp;q=75\" width=\"1044\" height=\"783\" decoding=\"async\" data-nimg=\"1\" loading=\"lazy\" style=\"color:transparent\"/>\n<h2>Project overview</h2>\n<p>ABRA Software (ABRA) is a leading enterprise software company in the Czech Republic with a history dating back to 1991.\nIts primary product is the ERP system for small and medium-sized businesses. Most ABRA Software clients are located in the Czech Republic and Slovakia, but new ABRA Software products are designed to compete in the developed markets of Western Europe.\nThe ABRA Software shareholders, therefore, opted for foreign expansion, specifically into the DACH region, and they chose Switzerland as the entry market.\nABRA Software&#x27;s main shareholder asked me to lead the expansion.</p>\n<h3>Project duration</h3>\n<p>March 2016 — February 2018</p>\n<h2>The goal</h2>\n<p>Establish distribution for ABRA Software products in the DACH region and specifically in Switzerland.</p>\n<h2>My role</h2>\n<p>I led the entire project and later became the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the newly established joint-stock company ABRA Software AG in Switzerland.</p>\n<h2>Responsibilities</h2>\n<ul>\n<li>Developing a strategy, a distribution model, and pricing.</li>\n<li>Product localization including product documentation and legal documents.</li>\n<li>Creating a product roadmap for Switzerland and coordinating resources for its implementation.</li>\n<li>Establish the joint-stock company and its operation.</li>\n<li>Marketing &amp; Sales activities including building the partnership network.</li>\n<li>Building a local team to ensure business activities in Switzerland.</li>\n</ul>\n<h2>Results</h2>\n<p>A subsidiary company, joint stock company ABRA Software AG, was successfully established including a business plan and strategy.\nThe office was created in Winterthur.\nContracts with the first business partners were signed, and ABRA&#x27;s first local consultants were trained.\nABRA Software was presented at several business events and an IT fair in Switzerland.\nA sales pipeline was established and the first implementation project was scheduled.\nA local CEO was hired who assumed responsibility for running the company and further developing the market for ABRA Software.</p>",
            "url": "https://www.lukassoukup.com/articles/establishing-a-subsidiary-company-in-switzerland",
            "title": "Establishing a subsidiary company in Switzerland",
            "summary": "Project management and business development for ABRA Software in DACH region.",
            "date_modified": "2018-03-31T00:00:00.000Z",
            "author": {
                "name": "Lukas Soukup"
            }
        },
        {
            "id": "https://www.lukassoukup.com/articles/developing-online-payment-gateway",
            "content_html": "<h2>Project overview</h2>\n<p>This project was a joint venture between LukyLab and BSC Praha (now Finshape). The development of the PayMyway actually gave impetus to establish my company LukyLab and was the first project I delivered as LukyLab.</p>\n<h3>Project duration</h3>\n<p>January 2010 — March 2011</p>\n<h2>The product</h2>\n<p>A secure system called PayMyway for online payments connecting eshops with banks in the Czech Republic.</p>\n<h2>The problem and the opportunity</h2>\n<p>Online shopping in the Czech Republic was booming, but the payment options were limited with the most popular payment method as cash-on-delivery, bringing additional cost, inconvenience, and risks. At the same time, banks were offering &quot;internet banking&quot; – enabling clients to access their bank accounts and make payments online.</p>\n<h2>The goal</h2>\n<p>Introduce an alternative to online card payment and cash on delivery payment methods. Develop a new system for secure and fast online payments, and make it a standard for payments using internet banking.</p>\n<h2>My role</h2>\n<p>I led the project from its inception and served as a project manager, product designer, salesman, tester, and support specialist. We were a very small team with limited resources, and I did everything except writing the code to deliver the product and make it a success.\nThe most critical was to get banks and online merchants on board. Therefore, my main focus was to establish relationships with banks and eshops.</p>\n<h2>Responsibilities</h2>\n<ol>\n<li>Develop a strategy, budget, plan, and pricing.</li>\n<li>Establish relationships with banks and online merchants.</li>\n<li>Research and develop a specification for the payment gateway.</li>\n<li>Provide testing, and support to all involved parties.</li>\n<li>Support integration with banks and eshops.</li>\n<li>Create all supporting materials.</li>\n</ol>\n<h2>My approach</h2>\n<ul>\n<li>Made it &quot;super&quot; easy and convenient for banks and merchants to integrate with PayMyway – have code samples, documentation, security reviews, etc. available from the start.</li>\n<li>Created a business case for banks and online merchants demonstrating the cost and benefits of PayMyway.</li>\n<li>Developed and made all materials including terms &amp; conditions, marketing materials, etc. available to banks and merchants to help us market PayMyway.</li>\n</ul>\n<h2>The result</h2>\n<p>The new payment gateway named PayMyway was successfully launched in cooperation with 4 banks and several e-commerce retailers.\nPayU subsequently purchased PayMyway and incorporated it into its online payments solution.</p>",
            "url": "https://www.lukassoukup.com/articles/developing-online-payment-gateway",
            "title": "Developing an online payment system",
            "summary": "Project management and business development of a new method for online payments.",
            "date_modified": "2018-01-01T00:00:00.000Z",
            "author": {
                "name": "Lukas Soukup"
            }
        }
    ]
}