Cloud
Role: Product Designer
Tools: Figma
Duration: 6 weeks (Nov - Dec 2022)
Challenge
Design a mobile app with the goal of assisting visitors with specific activities in Governors Island. This is the follow-up project for my Governors Island website redesign.
Context
In the city that never sleeps, Governors Island is a weekend getaway for New Yorkers to escape the fast paced city life. The island has 120 acres of open space and car-free environment, allowing visitors to enjoy various recreational activities such as picnicking, biking, and relaxing with family and friends. When I was given the task of designing a mobile app for Governors Island, I thought about my many trips to the island which consisted of catching up with friends on a grass field; we would have picnics, read books, and crochet.
💬 Discover
Initial Research
Due to time constraints, I was unable to conduct user interviews. Instead, I looked up reviews on Tripadvisor to find more information on who are the people visiting the island, and how they spent their time there. I discovered that people who left reviews were mostly New York City residents and occasional tourists.
I used an affinity map to organize reviews from Tripadvisor.
I started brainstorming possibilities for my product design, starting with the most commonly mentioned activities. People who typically come to Governors Island stay for a couple of hours; they are looking to relax with family and friends, connect with nature, and escape from the city.
I wanted my app to embody what Governors Island represented: a peaceful retreat. What is something that can be done to pass time, with little to no equipment, and suitable for both children and adults?
Cloud watching was my answer.
I used a mind map to brainstorm possibilities for my mobile app.
🔎 Define
Problem Statement
How might we make cloud watching more interactive and enjoyable for people of all ages?
Comparative Analysis
CloudSpotter
CloudSpotter is a reality-based game where users compete to expand their cloud collection by identifying and uploading photos of clouds.
While the concept is fun, the app limits users to taking photos on the spot with its built-in camera. Additionally, users report that the information is outdated, and there's no way to verify if a cloud has been incorrectly identified.
Field Guide to Clouds
Field Guide to Clouds is a portable guidebook for identifying clouds. Users can test their cloud knowledge with quizzes. The app is easy to navigate, but lacks any social features.
As I questioned how I could separate my app from competitors, I thought about what made cloud watching enjoyable. The fun of cloud watching lies in identifying clouds that resemble things in real life.
This became my opportunity for the solution: an app for cloud doodles.
User Personas
Journey Map
The story I ended up telling imagines one of my user personas, Ariel, trying the app for the first time. She is a middle school science teacher and wants to incorporate an activity to supplement her meteorology lessons.
Low Fidelity Sketches and Wireframes
⚡ Ideate
Solution
Cloud is an AI powdered cloud watching app. Users can take photos of clouds, create and share cloud doodles, and learn about cloud types.
Create an Account within Seconds
Users can sign in with their Gmail account or choose to continue as a guest. To maintain a safe and welcoming environment for all ages, usernames are automatically generated at random.
Discover Doodles from Cloud Watchers Around the World
Explore the latest cloud doodles shared by users, with the option to filter by your favorite cloud types.
Capture and Doodle with AI-Driven Cloud Identification
Launch the camera and let AI identify the cloud type as you frame your shot. Unleash your creativity by doodling on your photo. Once you’re done, upload your masterpiece!
Upload and Adjust: Correct Cloud Types with Ease
Spotted a cloud but don’t have time to doodle? AI misidentified the cloud type? No worries—you’re in control! Users can doodle on photos from their gallery, and select the correct cloud category before uploading.
Learn How to Identify Clouds
Explore 10 different cloud types, complete with details on their characteristics, altitude levels, and more.
Showcase Your Cloud Doodles
View, share, and download cloud doodles on your profile.
Final Deliverables
Reflection
If I had more time, I would enhance the app by adding features like a step-by-step guide to help users identify different cloud types. Another addition would be the option for users to copy and doodle their own variation of another user’s photo. My biggest challenge was maintaining the app's focus on cloud doodles. I included social features, but kept them limited to ensure the app remains distinct from traditional social media platforms.