TikTok
Redesigning Tiktok's algorithm
TikTok is a mobile application that has revolutionized the way we consume and create video content. With advanced AI-driven recommendation systems and interactive features, the app is highly engaging – sometimes at the expense of users’ time and focus.
This project focused on redesigning TikTok’s user experience to help users balance engagement with a more conscious use of their time.
Year:
2022
Type of work:
Graphic Design
Tags:
Graphic design, Magazine, Zine, Content
Tools:
InDesign, Photoshop
Pre-study
The project began with a thorough technology scouting phase, where TikTok was identified as a platform with significant AI integration. The focus was directed toward the app’s recommendation system and facial recognition, which are used to optimize the user experience and drive engagement.
“The Five W’s and H” analysis was applied to understand how users interact with the app – when and where they use it, why it is so engaging, and how different design features influence user behavior.
One of the most prominent insights was that TikTok’s algorithm not only reinforces users’ interests but can also create an addictive experience. This led to the idea of developing an activity-based algorithm that changes how the app behaves depending on the user’s needs.
The goal was to support users in maintaining focus during specific activities, such as studying or exercising, without completely removing the entertainment aspect.
Exploration and prototyping
Concept development:
Based on insights from the analysis, concepts for activity-based profiles were created. These included specific settings for different activities, such as reducing distracting content during work or showing inspirational videos during exercise.
Sketching:
Early sketches were produced to visualize how users could adapt their algorithm based on activity or time.
Prototypes in Figma:
Prototypes for both desktop and mobile versions were created in Figma. These included features such as content restriction, an emergency contact for unlocking the default feed, and scheduling for automatic switching between activity profiles.
User testing:
Three users tested the prototype, providing valuable feedback on navigation and functionality. A recurring issue was the lack of clear visual cues for certain features, such as understanding when algorithm changes were active. This was addressed by adding signifiers and clearer interaction points.
Concept overview
Key features:
- Activity-based profiles:
Users can create different profiles for different activities – such as studying, working, exercising or relaxing. Each profile can be configured with specific settings for what type of content should be shown during that activity. - Content restriction settings:
Within each activity profile, users can choose to limit distracting content or prioritize content related to the activity, such as educational videos during study sessions or motivational videos during workouts. - Scheduling feature:
Users can schedule specific times when different profiles are automatically activated, for example during regular study hours or workout times. - Emergency contact feature (concept):
A unique safety feature where users can designate an “emergency contact” who can grant access to the standard content feed if the user feels the need to override the usual restrictions of an activity profile.
Intended effects
- Reduced procrastination and increased focus:
By limiting distracting content during activities that require concentration, such as studying or working, the system helps users maintain focus. - Support for a balanced lifestyle:
Encourages users to integrate social media in a way that supports rather than disrupts their daily lives, promoting a healthier digital lifestyle. - Personal safety network:
The emergency contact feature introduces a social dimension, allowing users to involve a trusted person in managing their usage, which may increase accountability and awareness around screen time.
Potential risks
- Dependency structure:
Requiring approval from an emergency contact could create a situation where users feel less autonomous. - Reduced platform appeal:
Limiting the app’s engaging qualities may lead users to disengage from the platform, which likely does not align with TikTok’s business interests.
Results
Presentation, visualization & final thoughts
The project concluded with a final presentation, which is available in the recording above.
Note: The presentation is available in Swedish only.
In summary, the final outcome was a balanced solution where engagement and user control work together to create a better user experience. The process also sparked deeper reflection on how design can support both enjoyment and well-being in the digital age.