Twarz
Biometric Identity Verification
Twarz is a digital identity verification platform designed to simplify the process of validating user identity for lenders and public entities. The goal was to create a seamless, secure, and user-friendly experience that reduces complexity while ensuring high-level security and privacy for users.
How I approached it
Applied a user-centered design approach with qualitative and quantitative research — interviews, surveys, and competitive analysis. Focused on two main user groups: Public Service Officers and Fintech Consultants. Pain points discovered: errors during identity verification lead to inefficiencies; existing tools lack user-friendly interfaces; biometric tools compromise usability for security.
Created two personas: Laura Rodríguez (42, Public Service Officer in Montevideo) and Martín Suárez (29, Fintech Consultant in Buenos Aires). Problem statements — For Laura: 'How might we simplify identity verification to improve accuracy and accessibility for citizens with diverse technical skills?' For Martín: 'How might we develop a secure biometric solution that is user-friendly and easily integrates with fintech platforms?'
In the early stages, paper wireframes were sketched to outline the app's core functionalities, including identity verification and task management flows for fintech and public sector users. Multiple layouts were explored to prioritize user needs such as intuitive navigation and quick access to essential tools. These sketches served as the foundation for developing digital wireframes.
Digital wireframes were created in Figma with clean layouts, easily recognizable icons, and straightforward workflows. Special attention was given to accessibility features including larger buttons and simplified menus. From these wireframes, a low-fidelity prototype was built to validate the primary user flows.
Conducted usability studies with both user groups. Key finding 1: Users needed clearer instructions during the NFC tag scanning step — solution: added a visual animation guide. Key finding 2: Selfie capture feedback was unclear — solution: implemented real-time face detection indicators and plain-language prompts.
Existing identity verification tools lack user-friendly interfaces — errors during verification lead to inefficiencies, and citizens with limited technical skills struggle with digital processes. Biometric tools often compromise usability for security, and integration with fintech platforms is complex and time-consuming.
Designed a 4-step streamlined process (Scan ID, NFC Verification, Selfie Capture, SMS Link) with real-time feedback, plain-language guidance, and transparent progress indicators to build trust throughout the flow.
Designed an interface that balances rigid security requirements with human-centered ease of use, reducing drop-off at critical verification steps and increasing user trust through transparency.
