Ultra Immersive Scroll
OVERVIEW
SDOJ is a gamified interview prep platform designed to help software engineers especially senior developers prepare for high-stakes interviews like system design and architecture. It simulates real interview pressure through multimodal exercises, gamification, and retrospective feedback loops to drive both skill and confidence.
I led the product’s design end-to-end as the sole designer, collaborating with cross-functional teams to create a platform that’s immersive, pressure-tested, and addictive to use.
CHALLENGES
Lack of Realism: Existing platforms (like LeetCode, HackerRank) lacked dynamic, high-pressure interview simulation
Neglect of Senior Developers: No dedicated tools for system design, API architecture, or capacity estimation.
Feedback Desert: Binary "right/wrong" feedback failed to help users improve iteratively.
Low Habit Retention: Platforms weren’t designed for consistent, habit-forming usage.
Complex Interface Needs: Designing four distinct interaction models under a unified experience.
GOALS
Simulate real interview pressure with timers, follow-up questions, and performance triggers.
Support senior-level prep: Focus on architecture, system design, estimation, and APIs.
Create multimodal practice environments with tailored tools (whiteboards, calculators, IDEs).
Drive consistent practice through gamified features like streaks, rewards, and progression.
Build a scalable design system to accommodate rapid iteration and varied modes.
MY ROLE
As the sole designer, I led the product’s design end-to-end, from research and prototyping to final UI and design system.
I partnered with the founder, PM, and engineers to align the experience with real interview challenges, ensuring it felt both practical and pressure-tested.
DURATION
3 Month Sprint: July → Sept 2023
TEAM
SUCCESS METRICS
TAKEAWAYS & LEARNINGS
