Build a marketplace

(IMVU 3D avatar shop)

Transforming a fragmented shopping experience into a unified marketplace.

COMPANY

IMVU

ROLE

Lead Designer

Duration

6 months

Context

The IMVU Shop is a virtual marketplace where members discover and purchase 3D avatar clothing, accessories, rooms, and furniture using credits.

Visit IMVU Web / App Store / Google Play Store

Problem

Shoppers want to better find/discover items that they seek to buy that are unique, original, and best suited to the activity and look they have in mind. Currently, users complain about difficulty in finding what they desire in Shop.

Creators want to gain more prominence and recognition in Shop. Skilled creators want to get their products to be viewed by shoppers that seek them.

Old experience

No global shopping cart
Flat category hierarchy
Static 2D product cards with no try-on

Approach

Create a global shopping cart: Make it easy to save and purchase items across categories.
Expand product categories: Introduce new categories to increase opportunities for spending credits.
Drive engagement and retention: Extend the IMVU experience with Rooms & Furniture, giving users more ways to personalize their spaces.
Simplify navigation: Consolidate creator-defined categories into a clear, IMVU-owned hierarchy modeled after familiar e-commerce patterns.