Reimagining the ADF Careers recruitment experience
VMLY&R
The Problem
The Australian Defence Force recruitment process lacked a streamlined user experience, often leaving candidates confused and underprepared as they navigated their application and various recruitment stages. Instead of inspiring a sense of opportunity and excitement, the process created uncertainty and alienation, ultimately leading to stress and incomplete applications.
My Contributions
My role involved conceptualising innovative features and functions to elevate the impact and potential of a centralised recruitment app that was being designed by VMLY&R. With a broad scope that encouraged creative exploration, my task was to propose forward-thinking solutions that complemented the base set of functions already being cooked up by the VMLY&R team.
Background
VMLY&R was developing a one-stop-shop app titled the 'ADF Careers Passport' that candidates undergoing the Australian Defence Force recruitment process could use to practise, submit and track their applications. The purpose of the app was to; centralise the candidate recruitment experience, streamline communication between the ADF and candidates, and to gather information to better understand user needs on an ongoing basis.
Research Synthesis
VMLY&R had already conducted extensive user research and mapped out a highly detailed customer journey map. From this they extracted various insights. After being presented with this information, I synthesised it further and categorised the insights through an affinity mapping exercise. This revealed three particular insights, and in turn aims, which provided an overall strategic direction for my design response:
1. Provide clarity over the full recruitment process and expectations.
2. Create opportunities for human interaction and fostering a sense of community.
3. Equalise access to information and learning opportunities amongst candidates.
Design Response
I developed 2 new features for the app which would facilitate community building, enable personalised learning opportunities and offer a sense of control and clarity over ones recruitment journey. The first feature, the 'Connection Hub' meant every candidate would have the opportunity to know someone from the 'inside' who could share their experience and knowledge on a personal level. In addition, it would provide the means to establish a sense of belonging and connection amongst peers. The second feature, the 'Checklist' offered oversight over ones own recruitment journey and could allow them to track their progress and achievements.
Testimonial
Nitara's calm and articulate approach in the face of high-pressure tasks make her a clear thinker and standout presenter. Her insightful presentation on her approach to a Defence Force Recruitment project was impressive, made us look good, and ultimately influenced our broader digital strategy.
— Zoe Li-Mei Lamond, UX/UI Designer @ blueegg