A loan calculator accessible to every ability and need

Overview

This calculator is part of a full website redesign for a growing Irish credit union. Loans are central to what a credit union does, so it had to be one of the most useful tools on the site, and one that anyone could use.

What I Noticed

The original brief organised the calculator around the credit union's product list. That makes sense inside the credit union. It makes no sense to a member, who doesn't arrive thinking “I need a Class B variable loan”. They arrive thinking “I need a car”.

What I Did, And Why

Working sessions with the client team reframed the tool around purpose. Members choose what they are borrowing for first, then the amount, then see the loans that suit them, then choose a repayment they are comfortable with. Four steps, in the order people actually think.

Each step unlocks the next, and the locked steps stay visible. Why: one decision at a time is easier for everyone, and showing what is coming, and why it isn't available yet, beats a form that overwhelms or silently switches things off.

Every slider has a number box beside it, because not everyone can use a slider. The summary updates live, so people can see what a choice costs before they commit. The apply button stays off until the steps are done, and says why.

I built it as a working prototype rather than static screens, so the interaction could be tested for real instead of debated.