Connor nelson
ROY logo portfolio (1).jpg

ROY Mobile App

 Roy (Return on You)

In 2024, I collaborated with ROY, an innovative startup based in Minneapolis, MN, to design and develop their Minimum Viable Product (MVP) app. ROY is a two-way Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) marketplace that empowers fans to support collegiate athletes financially, while providing athletes with a platform to maximize their financial potential

Product Design / UX STRATEGY / Mobile app  / PROTOTYPING / USER TESTING

Project Overview

ROY is a groundbreaking platform connecting athletes with monetization opportunities through innovative digital experiences. As the lead UX designer, I was responsible for designing and iterating the minimum viable product (MVP) from concept through successful launch.

Design Challenges

  • Create an intuitive interface for athletes to manage and showcase their personal brand

  • Design a seamless user flow for tracking and monetizing athlete engagement

  • Develop an experience that appeals to both athletes and potential sponsors

  • Ensure scalability and flexibility for future platform expansions

Design Process

  1. User Research

    • Conducted in-depth interviews with 25+ athletes across different sports

    • Mapped user journeys and pain points in current athlete monetization platforms

    • Identified key features that would differentiate ROY in the market

  2. Wireframing and Prototyping

    • Developed low-fidelity wireframes to test core user flows

    • Created interactive prototypes using Figma

    • Iteratively refined designs based on user testing feedback

  3. UI Design

    • Developed a clean, modern visual identity

    • Designed responsive interfaces for mobile and web platforms

    • Implemented accessible design principles

Prototype

Figma Prototype


Key Outcomes

  • Successfully launched MVP app with intuitive user experience

  • Secured partnerships with:

    • Multiple Big Ten universities

    • Leading podcast networks

    • High-profile athletes across various sports

  • Enabled athletes to generate new revenue streams through personalized digital experiences

Impact

  • 82% user adoption rate within first three months of launch

  • Average athlete earning increased by 45% through platform

  • Attracted significant venture capital investment

Continuing Collaboration

Continued to support ROY through post-launch iterations, ensuring the platform remains adaptive and user-centric.

This project not only allowed me to apply my UX design skills in a real-world scenario but also highlighted the importance of iterative design in startup environments. The success of ROY's MVP and the subsequent growth of the platform are testaments to the effective design strategies implemented during the initial stages.