Chrome Plugin Concept

One of the biggest revenue streams of Softonic is software distribution. Since its inception the company had tried to create its own software, but never managed to deliver something that was seen as an absolute success.

During 2018 the idea of creating new types of software started spreading again. We needed new channels to monetize, engage with our users and there was a rising interest to test our distribution channels with different value propositions.

My Role

Product Designer — Market research, brainstorm facilitation, value proposition creation, development difficulty assessment, high fidelity prototypes, and stakeholder pitch.

Process and Outcomes

I drew inspiration from Muzli while working on content redesign, proposing a browser plugin delivering similar functionality using Softonic's editorial content. Muzli is a Chrome plugin that shows you the latest design news from the sources you select every time you open a new tab.

Two prototypes were created in light and dark themes.

Team members interested in Chrome plugin development combined with 15% personal project time created opportunity for testing this concept.

Conclusions and Learnings

The project was rejected due to installation funnel differences from binary distribution and resource constraints prioritizing critical initiatives.

This project was really fun to do and I wish it would have, at least, been tested, as the development cost was low and the potential for gathering user data and improving user engagement was significant.