App to request assistance during an emergency from authorities and neighbors. The companion responsive website provides learning activities on the topics of safety and emergency situations.
Aug - Sep 2023
My Role
UX designer for app and responsive website in Google’s UX certificate program through research and usability studies, information architecture, paper and digital wireframes, low and high-fidelity prototypes, and iteration.
Goal
Design an app that will allow neighborhoods to communicate during an emergency and request assistance. Additionally, create a responsive web site to provide learning activities to educate communities on safety.
Audience
App targets US families ages 18 - 70 living in neighborhoods or apartments. Learning website extends to younger ages learning safety practices.
Challenges
A key challenge was to make the reporting flow quick and easy to follow while building off of existing concepts like discussion threads. The learning site needed to promote the app but also be fun and engaging to allow people to learn preventative tips.
Research
I created Personas to highlight different needs for concerned family members. I also conducted a competitive audit to understand opportunities from Nextdoor, Facebook Groups, Life360, and First Aid.
Ideas
I used the Crazy Eights method for both the app and responsive website to come up with user flows for reporting in the app and learning activities in the website.
Wireframes
My first wireframes focused on the report flow presented at the top of the screen with a call-to-action button. The rest of the home screen contained the familiar discussion threads like other neighborhood apps.
I conducted a moderated usability study of 5 friends and family to learn more about the experience of reporting an emergency. My affinity diagram organized the feedback to prioritize clarifying steps for the map and revising the ‘Call 911’ text.
Prototypes
I addressed this feedback by using reference images and steps for the map part of a report and updated the copy for requesting emergency services. In my mockups and high-fidelity prototype, I used Material Design 3 and a complementary color scheme to provide a familiar and friendly experience.
The Cordially app addresses a gap in existing neighborhood communication apps by providing peace of mind in an emergency. I learned how to use a UI design kit to make the app and website feel similar. I also continued to learn from usability studies for a user flow for a scenario that must be very responsive and easy-to-use during an emergency.
Next Steps
My usability studies were limited to friends and family, but I would like to conduct a study with a diverse set of users including those with disabilities. To provide a more accessible experience, I would consider screen reader options and translation features.
