PupPlay is the perfect app for dog owners to find the right play mates for their dogs no matter where they are located.

Background

Many dog owners struggle to find reliable and safe opportunities for their dogs to socialize. Dog parks can be unpredictable, with concerns about aggressive or unvaccinated dogs. This lack of consistent socialization can lead to behavioral issues in dogs that need regular interaction.

Solution

  • Create an app that connects dog owners in the community to find playmates.

  • Reduce risks when introducing dogs to new companions.

  • Help owners easily socialize their dogs in a safer environment.

Problem

Many dog owners struggle to find reliable and safe opportunities for their dgs to socialize. Dog parks can be unpredictable, with concerns about aggressive or unvaccinated dogs. This lack of consistent socialization can lead to behavioral issues in dogs that need regular interaction.

Design Process

  • User Inteviews

    Competitive Analysis

  • User Persona

    HMW & POV

    Brainstorming

  • Key Features

    User Flows

    Information Architecture

  • Low Fidelity Sketches

    Visual Design

    Wireframes

  • Prototype

    Usability Test

    Design Revisions

8 Weeks

Student Project with Design Lab

Competitive Analysis

Findings

A comprehensive competitor analysis was conducted to understand the strengths and weaknesses of existing apps in the market. Some features these apps were missing include vaccination and health status. These insights will guide the design of a new app that better meets the needs of dog owners seeking safe and compatible playmates for their pets.

User Interviews

5

30 minute phone interviews

  • Users who are dog owners

  • “We like to go on long walks and play fetch, but it’s tough to find other dogs for our dog to socialize with. Dog parks can be hit or miss, especially with aggressive dogs around."

  • "We enjoy outdoor activities, but making sure all the dogs get along is crucial. One of my dogs got into a scuffle at the dog park, so I’m always cautious."

  • "My dog’s low energy level makes it challenging to find compatible playmates. The dog park can be overwhelming, especially with more energetic dogs around."

  • "I’m always concerned about the risk of aggressive dogs at the park, so we mostly avoid it. It’s hard to find well-matched playmates for my high-energy dogs."

The data from the user interviews was synthesized into an affinity map to identify common themes and insights. By grouping related responses and highlighting key concerns, patterns emerged around issues like safety, compatibility, and the need for better communication between dog owners

Synthesizing User Interviews

Personas

POV & HMW

A POV statement was developed to highlight key user needs, followed by HMW statements to explore potential solutions and features.

Site Map

Based on the insights from user interviews, competitor analysis, and user personas, a sitemap was created to define the app’s structure and navigation. This involved organizing features and content into a clear hierarchy to ensure ease of use and accessibility.

User Flows

When setting up a profile, user specifies dog information to begin being matched to alike dogs

Once profile is created, users can view other dogs profiles and being liking and matching with them

After meeting with other dogs, users can leave reviews for other users to view

Low-Fidelity Wireframes

Branding

The branding and name, "PupPlay," were created to establish a cohesive and appealing identity that resonates with dog owners and clearly communicates the app’s purpose

High-Fidelity Prototype

UI Kit

Usability Testing

5

30 minute prototype tests and interviews

Revisions

PupPlay:Final Design

Task #1: Create a Profile

Task #2: Send a Calendar Invite to a Match

Task #3: Send a Like to a Potential Match

Link to Prototype

Reflection

Working on this UX project to design PupPlay was a highly rewarding experience, particularly because, as a dog owner, I deeply relate to the needs and challenges faced by fellow pet owners. The process allowed me to join my personal passion for dogs with my skills in UX design, making it more than just a project. From conducting user interviews to creating detailed user flows, each step provided valuable insights into how to create an app that genuinely enhances the lives of both dogs and their owners.

Throughout the project, I enjoyed translating the real-world experiences of dog owners into functional and user-friendly designs. Addressing challenges like improving navigation, ensuring clear communication, and creating an easy to use interface was both challenging and satisfying. Seeing the final prototype come together, especially with features that I would personally use, made it worth all the work. This project has strengthened my skills in UX design and I look forward to utilizing these skills.