By Karthikeyan Selvan | karthikeyanselvan.framer.website

Ethereal is a hybrid crypto-based prediction market platform where users can bid on real-time events. By combining decentralized technology with centralized payment options, Ethereal addresses the complexities of traditional prediction markets, making them more accessible, trustworthy, and user-friendly.

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Project Duration: 7 weeks

Role: Ideation, conceptualization, visual and interaction design

Tools: Figma

<aside> 🙋🏻‍♂️ My Role

In this case study, I conducted a competitive analysis on platforms like Polymarket and Augur to uncover user pain points, such as complex workflows and difficulties with crypto onboarding. Through desk research, I identified barriers users face, particularly in accessibility and ease of use.

Based on these insights, I designed features like sandbox quests and hybrid payment onboarding to simplify and improve the user experience. I prototyped and tested these features to ensure Ethereal provides a seamless, engaging, and user-friendly platform that bridges the gap between crypto enthusiasts and mainstream users.

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Problem Space

Prediction markets often feel confusing and inaccessible, especially for newcomers. Users face challenges like navigating complex workflows, understanding crypto-specific terminology, and dealing with the perceived risks of cryptocurrency volatility, which leads to hesitation and low engagement.

The key challenge is making prediction markets intuitive and user-friendly. How can we lower the learning curve, build trust, and create an experience that appeals to both crypto-savvy users and newcomers?

Ethereal tackles these issues by introducing guided tutorials, hybrid payment options, and transparent user dashboards. These features simplify the user journey, reduce risk perception, and provide users with the tools to engage confidently, making prediction markets more inclusive and accessible.

Competitive Analysis

Platform Key Features User Pain Points Identified Insights from Desk Research
Polymarket Prediction markets with crypto support

| Limited accessibility for non-crypto users due to lack of fiat options | | Augur | Decentralized prediction platform | - Difficult onboarding for first-time crypto users - Limited guidance for wallet setup and funding. | - High learning curve due to technical jargon. - Interface lacks visual hierarchy, making navigation challenging | | General | Key differentiators between platforms | - Both struggle with beginner accessibility and crypto | Need for simplified interfaces and user-friendly onboarding flows. |

<aside> <img src="https://prod-files-secure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/abb0e236-b651-46a5-ab85-a1477046c30a/4cad1dce-d263-4f47-b49e-6e4f0a287668/Ethereal_icon.png" alt="https://prod-files-secure.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/abb0e236-b651-46a5-ab85-a1477046c30a/4cad1dce-d263-4f47-b49e-6e4f0a287668/Ethereal_icon.png" width="40px" />

How It Solves User Problems

  1. Reduces Complexity: By integrating guided experiences and intuitive UX features, ethereal simplifies the user journey, addressing the steep learning curve.
  2. Builds Trust: Fiat on-ramps and transparent transaction summaries mitigate skepticism, offering users a secure and familiar environment.
  3. Enhances Accessibility: The hybrid model removes entry barriers for non-crypto users, expanding the platform's appeal.
  4. Empowers Users: Data-driven insights and community signals equip users with the tools to make confident, informed decisions. </aside>