Next Steps is a mobile app designed to simplify onboarding, training, & internal communication for small businesses. It delivers the essential tools of a private team portal without the high cost or complexity of enterprise systems. Nearly half of U.S. workers are employed by small businesses, yet 66% feel undertrained, & 52% are dissatisfied with their onboarding experience. Most have little to no access to online training or centralized communication. Next Steps fills this gap with an all-in-one platform that helps teams learn, connect, & grow. This project was developed as a SCAD group collaboration with Charlotte Clarke, Matthew Asencio, Jack Clarke, & Chloe Buchan.
Every aspect of Next Steps was informed by real user feedback: 28 survey responses, 4 in-depth interviews, & 520 data points collected from small business teams. Insights from this research shaped a clean, modular interface designed for users of all digital skill levels, ages 18–65. Interface Design: We built a simple, color-coded system that prioritizes clarity & accessibility. Icon-based navigation & modular layouts ensure users can easily locate training materials, team updates, & communication tools. User Experience: As a team, we focused on the features users valued most: Training access, coworker connection, & intuitive communication, while removing unnecessary complexity. The result is a digital experience designed to engage employees & empower managers, regardless of one’s technical ability & understanding.
Next Steps delivers the core tools small businesses need most—nothing extra, nothing bloated. Onboarding: Access documents & resources in just a few taps. Training: Personalized video dashboards that support learning on demand. Communication: Built-in chat for instant team connection. Portal Management: A single, easy-to-use hub for employees & managers alike.
