Explore Co.


Explore Co. is a mobile app concept that enables users to discover and book activities in their neighborhood. The app aims to solve the problem of the overwhelming number of choices one can face when trying to make the most of their free time in a bustling city like New York. With endless activity options available, it can be challenging to decide on what to do. Explore Co. simplifies the process by curating a list of activities based on the user's location. The final design is both clean and editorial, as well as humanist and user friendly.


Timeline

February - March 2022


Responsibilites

User experience design & research
Wireframing & Prototyping
Brand and visual identity design
User interface & interactive design
Sourcing Photography and Videography


Apps Used

Figma, Photoshop, Illustrator, After Effects


Team

My role was product designer, project manager, brand development. I collaborated with one product designer.





The Problem

Many people in big cities are overwhelmed by the number of activities available, making it challenging to decide what to do. With so many choices, it can be difficult to find something nearby that suits one's preferences and budget, and many people end up feeling indecisive or stuck. This can lead to a frustrating user experience, causing users to spend more time searching for activities than actually enjoying them.



The Solution

Explore Co. allows users to book activities based on neighborhood. By providing recommendations based on location, users can easily discover new and exciting things to do without the need for extensive research. This solution streamlines the decision-making process, simplifies the user experience, and encourage users to make the most of their time in the city.




Looking at this from three perspectives: product, user and market


1. Product
interface that minimizes time
Can save users time by suggesting nearby activities, eliminating extensive research
2. User
minimize the stress of decisions
Help users minimize decision-stress by  curated list that align with their interests
3. Market
local focus

Focuses on users discovery of their local neighborhoods




Design Exploration



︎︎︎ Inviting and easy-to-navigate app for exploring neighborhoods with a minimalist modern aesthetic
︎︎︎ Soothing color scheme (blue, white, and beige) for simplicity and urban adventure.
︎︎︎ Organized grid layout reduces visual clutter and makes it user-friendly



User Interviews


Demographic + Location
18 - 65
Urban Areas

User Segments
Young Professionals
Long-term locals
Gender
61% women
39% men


Research Questions

  1. Do you find it overwhelming to leave your apartment and plan your day?
  2. What would drive you to do an activity you want to do, but you wouldn't normally do?
  3. If you paid for an activity, are you more likely to show up and do it?
  4. Besides, money what would make you go try a new activity?
  5. How do you find activities when traveling?
  6. What apps are you currently using to find activities to do in your city?


Major Insights

Users want a personalized app that recommends activities based on their interests and schedules, saving them time and reducing overwhelm

Social connection is crucial, and aspect can encourage participation

Incentives can motivate users to experiences and overcome hesitations



Wireframes


Applied Changes - Mid Design - High Fidelity Screens



1.  Search Method
Originally only one method via list, but now can search by activity or map
Using two methods to search for activities, including a full bleed interactive map




2.  Simplifed Activity Screen
Originally a sliding gallery, now can view all images and swipe
shows the user various photos (previous, current and future)




3.  Streamline Ticket Purchase
Originally all on one page, now seperates the purchase process
Clear and concise for user to make purchase



Final Screens




Prototype