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
OUTCOMES
TAKEAWAYS & LEARNINGS
