Bark - Tinder, but for Dogs
PRODUCT DESIGN · RESEARCH · MOBILE APP
PROJECT BRIEF
INTRODUCTION
As a new dog owner, I wanted to ensure my puppy experienced a variety of things early on to foster a positive outlook on life. Socializing is super important for their learning and happiness, but finding dog friends was challenging; dog parks were too overwhelming for him (and me). This led to the idea of Bark, a hypothetical app designed like Tinder but for connecting dogs, to safely socialize puppies like Appa.
MY ROLE
Research, analysis, product design
TOOLS
Figma, Adobe sketch
PROJECT TYPE
End-to-end mobile app, iOS
WHAT PROBLEM AM I TRYING TO SOLVE
The difficulty in safely socializing dogs.
SOLUTION
An app to facilitate meaningful connections between dogs and their owners without the overwhelm of dog parks.
APPA, MY INSPIRATION FOR BARK ❤️
STEP 1 - IDENTIFYING THE NEED
UNDERSTANDING THE IMPORTANCE OF SOCIALIZING DOGS
To design an app that delights dog owners and supports their pets' well-being, I explored the importance of dog socialization:
📉 Emotional Behavior
Socialized dogs often release less cortisol and adrenaline, indicating lower stress levels.
💞 Prevention of behavioral probelm
Dogs that suffer from social isolation may exhibit abnormal behaviors and show signs of depression.
💨 Physical health
Dogs that are solitary tend to be more inactive, while socialized dogs show more active behavior.
🤝 Social Structure
Dogs use play to form social bonds and learn about competition and cooperation.
STEP 2: RESEARCH PHASE
DIGGING DEEPER
Now, onto my favorite part - I set out to understand who I was creating for: their challenges, needs, and what truly matters to them.
🕵️♀️ Competitor Analysis
This step was important to see how existing platforms were addressing (or failing to address) the needs of dog owners looking for socialization opportunities for their pets.
✍️ User Interview
I conducted interviews to tap into the real-life experiences of dog owners. I explored their worries, pain points, and what they sought in an ideal dog socialization platform.
🕵️♀️ COMPETITOR ANALYSIS INSIGHTS
Tinder Insights
Engagement strategy: The app is designed to keep users engaged by randomly showing potential matches, playing on our natural tendencies to keep swiping in the hope of finding a match.
Personalization: Tinder lets users set preferences for potential matches.
Simple User Interface: Simple & intuitive user interface. The swipe mechanism is easy to use and has become a standard in dating apps.
Safety
A prevalent concern in many apps was the issue of fake accounts and spam.
✍️ USER INTERVIEW INSIGHTS
“A platform where both my dogs and I, can safely connect and bond would be a game-changer."
Detailed Profiles: Feedback emphasized the importance of having detailed profiles for both dogs and their owners on the app, which helps users feel more confident and secure when setting up playdates.
Socialization Benefits: The feedback highlighted the users' excitement about not only socializing their dogs but also the opportunity to connect with other owners and bond over their shared love for pets.
Trust: Users emphasized the need for security on the app, wanting assurance about both the dogs and their owners, especially since they will be meeting in person.
Importance of dog socialization: All participants underscored the importance of their dogs socializing.
KEY TAKE AWAYS FROM MY RESEARCH
Authentication process: To foster a sense of safety and comfort, it's important that users undergo a thorough authentication process. This ensures they are genuine and have sincere intentions on the platform.
Community Building: The app presents a unique opportunity to foster a community, leveraging the dual benefits for both dogs and owners by facilitating social interactions.
Personalization: Bark should offer customization, allowing owners to specify preferences for playdates based on dog size, breed or behavior.
Importance of dog socialization: Strengthens the need for a platform like this.
STEP 3: DEFINITION PHASE
Next up, dive into the world of our users to help us tailor an in-app experience that is built for them.
USER PERSONA 1: DOG OWNER
Melissa, a dog owner, wants her very active dog to make friends but doesn't like the crowded dog parks.
LETS NOT FORGET THE STARS OF THE SHOW - THE DOGS!
TASK FLOW
To better navigate the app's journey, I designed what I like to term a treasure map. At every turn, I envisioned a treasure awaiting the user, ensuring a rewarding experience throughout.
STEP 4: MID-FIDELITY WIREFRAMES
STEP 5: HIFI WIREFRAMES
ICONS
To keep the journey enjoyable, I created icons that match the app's vibe: playful and fun.
HI-FI WIREFRAMES - SIGN IN/ CREATE ACCOUNT
HI-FI WIREFRAMES - PUP PROFILE SETUP
Detailed profile setup process for the dog. They include all the necessary information required for the profile. This data is key, as it aligns with our research on matching dogs with appropriate playmates, focusing on their well-being and security.
HI-FI WIREFRAMES - OWNER PROFILE SETUP
Detailed profile setup process for the owner. The data collected is crucial as it addresses our research findings on safety and legitimacy for users
HI-FI WIREFRAMES - EXPLORE
The Explore page feature customizable filters and detailed profiles for both dogs and owners. This design is based on our research emphasizing the need for specific information for safety and effective matching. The ability to filter out unsuitable matches allows users to personalize their searches, ensuring the best fit for their dogs' unique needs and preferences.
HI-FI WIREFRAMES - MESSAGES
The Message feature facilitates easy communication between dog owners, enhancing trust and community building within the app. This feature addresses safety concerns by allowing transparent discussions about meet-ups.
HI-FI WIREFRAMES - PARK
The Park feature helps users find nearby parks and check if any of their matches are there. This enhances the community aspect of the app and makes organizing dog playdates more enjoyable and convenient for both dogs and their owners.
HI-FI WIREFRAMES - PROFILE
LAST STEP: REFLECTION
IF I HAD ADDITIONAL TIME I WOULD…
User Testing and Feedback
I'd focus on conducting usability testing with dog owners to refine the app's interface and overall user experience. This step would enable us to collect valuable feedback, iterate on the design, and enhance features to better meet user needs and expectations.
Community Features
Implement additional community features such as forums, or advice columns to further enhance the sense of community among users.
