Redefining Crypto Savings through BlockXave

For many crypto holders, savings can feel like a dead end—confusing tools, risky platforms, and assets that sit idle. In a world where financial literacy remains a challenge for many, and traditional savings yield negligible returns, BlockXave aims to change the narrative.

Role

Product Designer

Product Designer

Product Designer

Industry

Web3/FinTech

Web3/FinTech

Web3/FinTech

a cellphone leaning against a wall
a cellphone leaning against a wall
a cellphone leaning against a wall

BlockXave was born with a clear mission:

  • Empower users to grow dormant crypto assets.

  • Simplify financial strategies for everyday people.

  • Ensure security without compromising usability.

This was more than just a hackathon product—it was a solution designed to turn digital assets into stepping stones for financial growth.

The Problem

We identified key pain points that hindered crypto users from achieving meaningful savings:

  • Low Savings Yield: Traditional accounts offer minimal returns (~0.5% in 2021).

  • Dormant Crypto Assets: ~60% of Bitcoins remained unused for over a year.

  • Complex Tools: Jargon-heavy DeFi platforms overwhelm everyday users.

  • Security Concerns: Hacks in 2020 led to $3 billion in losses, eroding trust in crypto platforms.

These challenges demanded a solution where crypto wasn’t just held—it was actively working for its owner.

The Solution: BlockXave

The name BlockXave reflects its purpose:

  • Block: Built on secure blockchain technology.

  • Xave: Savings made smarter.

With BlockXave, users can:

  • Deploy smart savings contracts tailored to their financial goals.

  • Monitor portfolios in real-time via an intuitive dashboard.

  • Enjoy enhanced security features to safeguard their assets.

BlockXave was born with a clear mission:

  • Empower users to grow dormant crypto assets.

  • Simplify financial strategies for everyday people.

  • Ensure security without compromising usability.

This was more than just a hackathon product—it was a solution designed to turn digital assets into stepping stones for financial growth.

The Problem

We identified key pain points that hindered crypto users from achieving meaningful savings:

  • Low Savings Yield: Traditional accounts offer minimal returns (~0.5% in 2021).

  • Dormant Crypto Assets: ~60% of Bitcoins remained unused for over a year.

  • Complex Tools: Jargon-heavy DeFi platforms overwhelm everyday users.

  • Security Concerns: Hacks in 2020 led to $3 billion in losses, eroding trust in crypto platforms.

These challenges demanded a solution where crypto wasn’t just held—it was actively working for its owner.

The Solution: BlockXave

The name BlockXave reflects its purpose:

  • Block: Built on secure blockchain technology.

  • Xave: Savings made smarter.

With BlockXave, users can:

  • Deploy smart savings contracts tailored to their financial goals.

  • Monitor portfolios in real-time via an intuitive dashboard.

  • Enjoy enhanced security features to safeguard their assets.

a cell phone on a rock
a cell phone on a rock
a cell phone on a rock
a cellphone leaning against a wall
a cellphone leaning against a wall
a cellphone leaning against a wall

Design and development rocess

1. Understanding the Users

Given the lack of formal user research, we relied on web research, insights from a blockchain expert, and observations of existing platforms. These informed a user flow that mapped pain points to streamlined interactions. We aimed to remove barriers like complex jargon and overwhelming interfaces.

2. Building the Interface

Using Figma, I designed a user-centric interface with a focus on clarity and simplicity. Key screens included:

  • Connect Wallet: Seamless integration for both new and existing users.

  • Dashboard: Personalized insights into savings portfolios and transaction histories.

  • Savings Goal Setup: A step-by-step guide for deploying smart savings contracts.

3. Prototyping and Development
  • Backend: Smart contracts were developed using Solidity and Hardhat.

  • Frontend: Built with React and TypeScript, integrated using Web3uikit and Moralis.

While formal testing wasn’t conducted due to hackathon constraints, internal reviews with friends and research helped refine workflows.

Challenges and how I tackled them

  1. Steep Learning Curve: This was my first dive into Web3 design, so I had to study like crazy—reading articles, watching YouTube tutorials and dissecting platforms like Aave and Compound.

  2. Developer Collaboration: The developer wasn’t always available, so I had to adapt, using resources to validate feasibility and ensure I wasn’t designing unbuildable features.

  3. Simplifying Jargon: Replacing complex terms with user-friendly language was a balancing act, but collaborating with the Product Manager helped refine our approach.


User Experience Journey

New User Flow:
  1. Connect wallet via the landing page.

  2. Guided onboarding to deploy the first smart savings contract.

  3. Selection of savings goals (e.g., accommodation, education).

  4. Portfolio updates reflecting active savings and transaction history.

Existing User Flow:
  1. Access the dashboard to view ongoing savings strategies.

  2. Navigate advanced features like savings optimization.

Design and development rocess

1. Understanding the Users

Given the lack of formal user research, we relied on web research, insights from a blockchain expert, and observations of existing platforms. These informed a user flow that mapped pain points to streamlined interactions. We aimed to remove barriers like complex jargon and overwhelming interfaces.

2. Building the Interface

Using Figma, I designed a user-centric interface with a focus on clarity and simplicity. Key screens included:

  • Connect Wallet: Seamless integration for both new and existing users.

  • Dashboard: Personalized insights into savings portfolios and transaction histories.

  • Savings Goal Setup: A step-by-step guide for deploying smart savings contracts.

3. Prototyping and Development
  • Backend: Smart contracts were developed using Solidity and Hardhat.

  • Frontend: Built with React and TypeScript, integrated using Web3uikit and Moralis.

While formal testing wasn’t conducted due to hackathon constraints, internal reviews with friends and research helped refine workflows.

Challenges and how I tackled them

  1. Steep Learning Curve: This was my first dive into Web3 design, so I had to study like crazy—reading articles, watching YouTube tutorials and dissecting platforms like Aave and Compound.

  2. Developer Collaboration: The developer wasn’t always available, so I had to adapt, using resources to validate feasibility and ensure I wasn’t designing unbuildable features.

  3. Simplifying Jargon: Replacing complex terms with user-friendly language was a balancing act, but collaborating with the Product Manager helped refine our approach.


User Experience Journey

New User Flow:
  1. Connect wallet via the landing page.

  2. Guided onboarding to deploy the first smart savings contract.

  3. Selection of savings goals (e.g., accommodation, education).

  4. Portfolio updates reflecting active savings and transaction history.

Existing User Flow:
  1. Access the dashboard to view ongoing savings strategies.

  2. Navigate advanced features like savings optimization.

a cell phone on a table
a cell phone on a table
a cell phone on a table
a cell phone on a bench
a cell phone on a bench
a cell phone on a bench
a cell phone on a bench
a cell phone on a bench
a cell phone on a bench

Reflection

This was my first experience designing for a Web3 product. I faced challenges such as understanding blockchain technologies, ensuring design feasibility and compensating for limited developer availability. Through extensive research, mood boarding and studying similar platforms, I gained valuable insights into user expectations in the Web3 space.

This project taught me the importance of adaptability, cross-functional collaboration and designing for simplicity in complex domains. Despite the challenges, it was a rewarding experience that reinforced my passion for creating user-first solutions.


Other projects

Copyright 2024 by Akodu Loveth

Copyright 2024 by Akodu Loveth

Copyright 2024 by Akodu Loveth