B2C Scuba Networking iOS App

The Challenge

As the design lead for ScubaSquad, my task was to develop a mobile app that offered a seamless and secure experience specifically tailored for scuba divers across the USA. The main objective was to design an intuitive interface that catered to the distinct requirements of the scuba diving community, with a particular emphasis on facilitating location-based matching and buddy-seeking functionalities.

Ideation

Recognizing the importance of finding the right dive buddy, I conceptualized ScubaSquad, a native iOS app, to simplify the process of locating and connecting with compatible dive partners across the USA. My aim was to craft a user-friendly platform enhancing diving experiences before and after meeting the perfect match.

Brainstorming

Understanding the demographics and needs of scuba divers, I identified common challenges in finding dive buddies, including logistical, compatibility, communication, and safety concerns.

Personas

  1. The Adventurous Explorer: Sarah seeks like-minded divers for exploring adventurous dive locations.

  2. The Social Enthusiast: James values companionship underwater and seeks social connections.

  3. The Safety-Conscious Diver: Alex prioritizes safety and seeks reliable dive partners.

User Stories

Communication

As a user, I want to be able to communicate with potential dive buddies to discuss dive plans, share experiences, and coordinate meetups.

Acceptance Criteria: Users should have access to messaging features within the app to send and receive messages, exchange dive-related information, and plan diving activities with their matched buddies.

Search and Matching

As a user, I want to be able to search for dive buddies based on criteria such as location, experience level, availability, and diving interests.

Acceptance Criteria: Users should be able to filter and search for dive buddies based on various parameters, view profiles of potential matches, and send connection requests or messages to initiate communication.

Location Considerations

As a user, I want to locate dive companions who are nearby and share similar dive site preferences, enabling easy coordination of dives at local or preferred spots.

Acceptance Criteria: Users can set their location preferences, specifying both their current location and preferred dive spots. The app features a search functionality for users to find dive buddies based on proximity to their location and compatibility with preferred dive sites. Users have access to profiles of potential dive buddies who align with their location and dive site preferences, showcasing details about preferred dive locations and availability for diving. The app facilitates communication between users, allowing them to discuss and coordinate dives at local or preferred dive sites, covering scheduling, logistics, and dive plans.

Lo-FI Design

User FLows

  • Search and Matching Flow: Users can filter matches by location, skill level, and dive preferences.

  • Communication: In-app chat facilitates direct messages and group chats.

  • Dive Event Organization: Users can create, manage, and join dive events.

Wireframes

I used native iOS components to adhere to Apple’s design standards, thus streamlining the app's design and development process.

HI-FI dEsign

Style Guide

I drew inspiration for the logo from the red and white dive flag. I chose a light theme, incorporating a cool nautical color palette. 'Manrope,' a rounded sans-serif font, was my font of choice. All imagery used is generated by users. Moreover, I customized iOS components to align with the theme's look and feel, such as buttons, icons, segmented controls, table rows, cards, navigation bar, tab bar, activity view controller, horizontal carousels, and global search bar.

MOckups

The main screens I designed encompass a variety of functionalities. These include the Chat Page and Divers Page, which enable interaction among users, as well as the ability to toggle between new matches and existing connections. Additionally, I incorporated a filter feature to refine search results for enhanced user experience. The Diver Profile Page showcases essential information such as avatars, dive logs, certifications, and options to connect or invite others to dive. A map feature allows users to explore dive sites, displaying names and depths with the option to delve into further details by tapping each site. The Dives section organizes upcoming dives and dive logs by type and date. Moreover, the Dive Detail Page offers comprehensive insights into specific dive events, including event details, hosts, attendees, dive sites, required experience, gear, and a call-to-action for users to request joining the dive or share the event with others.

Prototype

I created a prototype for the primary user flows, employing interaction design patterns consistent with native iOS apps. For instance, when a user taps the map, I ensured that the action sheet smoothly rises from the bottom of the page. Additionally, I implemented vertical scrolling for tables and lists, while incorporating horizontal scrolling for image carousels to optimize navigation and user experience.

Results

To gauge the effectiveness of my design solution, I intend to measure and monitor the following metrics:

  • User Engagement: Track the number of active users, frequency of app usage, and session duration.

  • User Satisfaction: Gather feedback through surveys, reviews, and ratings on the App Store.

  • Success Stories: Highlight successful buddy matches and positive user experiences.

  • Retention Rate: Monitor how many users continue using the app after finding a dive buddy.

  • Safety Incidents: Keep track of any reported safety incidents and evaluate the effectiveness of safety features in preventing them.

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