paws

Paws App

Overview

This was a 2 week project in which I was prompted to design a video prototype of a new and unique dating app. After conducting research from many dating apps on the app store, I noticed that many people had pets in their profiles. With this knowledge I decided to create a dating app for people with pets so they could meet each other without the anxiety of going to a date alone. I made this prototype with Photoshop and edited the video in Premiere Pro.

Prototype

Problem Space

How can we facilitate connections for individuals who are single and experience anxiety when meeting new people face-to-face?

During and after the pandemic many people faced difficulties finding partners and many were scared of meeting people new people face to face. The prolonged periods of isolation and social distancing measures further exacerbated feelings of loneliness, making it even more daunting for those with anxiety to navigate the dating scene. As society resumed social interactions, there is a pressing need to provide support and resources tailored to the unique needs of individuals dealing with both the complexities of dating and the anxiety of in-person encounters.

Solution

Paws App

After exploring various dating apps such as Tinder, Bumble, and Hinge, I observed a recurring pattern: many users mentioned having a pet in their profiles. It's widely recognized that pets can alleviate stress and anxiety. Inspired by this observation, I envisioned creating a dating app centered around users' pets. This concept would provide a shared interest among users and encourage them to incorporate their furry companions into their dates.

Research

Questions

Have you used dating apps before or know a bit about them? Which ones are you familiar with?

Have you ever met up with people?

Do you feel safe/comfortable on these types of apps? Why or why not?

Do you prefer meeting people online or in person?

Which dating apps do you like the least and why?

What are some features you like the most on these dating apps?

What are some features you think can be improved or don’t like at all?

What new features would you like to have to make these apps more fun/interesting to use?

For my user research I conducted 2 interviews asking them a series of 18 questions on their experience using dating apps.

Concept

What are some of your favorite dating apps and why?

Do you think design/layout affects which app you use and why?

Answers

After collecting the answers from both users, I concluded that they both did not like Tinder because of the negative views surrounding the app. They both prefered Hinge and Bumble over Tinder finding it cooler due to its personalized questions and unique features. Safety concerns arise due to the casual nature of interactions on these apps, with most users not seeking anything serious. They both express a desire for an app where users can specify their intentions and preferences more clearly. Overall, they appreciate apps that are welcoming, light, and fun, with personalized elements that make interactions feel more human.