GraphComment — Forum Platform UX Design

In 2021, we were commissioned to design the complete graphical layer for an advanced forum and commenting platform by Semiologic. This platform, GraphComment reimagines the comment section as a place for real conversation instead of endless scrolling.

Instead of presenting replies as an endless linear feed, GraphComment’s Bubble Flow reveals how each contribution connects to the wider discussion, making even large conversations easier to follow and understand.

What we did

  • UX design
  • illustration
some screens of the mobile design of the Graph Comment forum platform

Giving conversations shape

Bubble Flow transforms deeply layered discussion threads into a visual dialogue. We designed the interface framework that gives every conversation hierarchy, rhythm and flow, while keeping the experience calm and approachable for publishers and their communities

some screens of the design for desktop of the Graph Comment forum platform
Screenshot taken in Adobe XD of a segment of the Graph Comment styleguide

Designing mobile first

The deeply nested structure of Bubble Flow made this a particularly interesting UX challenge. We began with the mobile experience, solving the limitations of the smallest screen before expanding the system to desktop.

This mobile-first approach helped us establish a clear visual hierarchy that could remain understandable as conversations became larger and more complex.

a segment of the Graph Comment styleguide showing  some of the icon styles

A system built for consistency

We created the complete design system in Adobe XD, including the colour palette, typography, icons, buttons and reusable interface components. Every element was documented with clear usage guidelines, giving the development team a consistent visual framework for the entire platform.

Welcoming empty states

To keep quieter moments from feeling blank or technical, we created a family of playful, colourful illustrations that gently guide people towards the next action.

a segment of the Graph Comment styleguide showing  some of the icon button styles
a segment of the Graph Comment styleguide showing  some of the icon button styles