About this project

The assignment was to create a dog walking app and learn how to use research, user flows, and wireframes to create a usable prototype with compelling visual design. I did all of the research, wireframing, and design work.

Research

The first step was researching other similar apps and determining what the primary concerns and issues were for their users. Then, after reading reviews and conducting some other research, I was able to get a better understanding of what people wanted from the service if they wanted it, and how to better develop an app to satisfy the needs of the users.

Findings

I read through similar app reviews and read what the users liked and didn’t like about the app. Also, I used Facebook and my Neighbor app to ask friends, neighbors, and family what they used when looking for a dog walker/pet sitter. Many people relied on friends or neighbors to watch their dogs. Others used traditional pet daycare businesses, so finding good feedback about this service was difficult.

Challenge

Dog owners sometimes need help caring for and walking their dogs. After conducting some basic research, the goal was to create a service to connect dog owners with dog walkers. The primary concern was to consider how we could help dog owners trust their dogs are in safe hands.

User Flows

For my user flow, I wanted to create a user profile and dog profile first, then save that info. Then they can decide what service they want and when they need it. After that, the providers that are available for that time and service will be listed. The user can select a provider, or view the bios of the providers. Then, once they have chosen a provider, they can contact them and order the service.

After some initial feedback, the workflow was slightly modified to address what happens when users select a service and dates. The onboarding page was also tweaked to make it more user friendly, allowing social media sign-in ability.

Wireframes

While mocking up some wireframes, I wanted to design the app so users would enter their info first so that they can browse walkers that will actually match their criteria. I think the primary goal is to get accurate user information first. Whether you are a dog owner or dog walker, the profiles need to be set up first. I also wanted to create a way that new walkers or providers could get more visibility, so the “you might like” section would help them get noticed.

The wireframes changed several times, as I made several attempts to address certain needs and to streamline the app. For example, the menu at the top of the app was removed as it's not a typical place for the menu.

Visual Designs

This design was inspired by some of the concepts I liked during the research phase and mood board. I like a clean/open design with a simple color pallet. It’s a fun but intentional design that I hope makes it easy for the user to navigate. I want the user early on to define their profile and if they want to walk dogs or need a dog walker. Also, this app is just for dogs. Overall, I’m satisfied but could use more sophistication and details.

Prototype and testing

After completing the visual design, it was time to develop the Prototype. I created a very basic, but usable prototype that allowed the user to experience setting up a profile and use the app.

Results

This was my first experience designing a product or app using methods that help to create an experience for users that matches their needs. The research phase will always be a challenge, as will the user flows, but the overall design process is very clarifying. The visual design and prototype phase is a very rewarding experience after working hard to define the needs and pain points of a user base for a specific product. In the end, I believe I developed a fun, colorful app that would help dog owners find responsible dog walkers in their area.