Runsafe
This is a mobile app concept that is inspired to keep the running community safe, informed, and empowered before lacing up their shoes to go for a run. Whether it’s in a new city or your every day running route, Runsafe is your go-to app for staying safe while running. The data is pulled from local police reports and anonymous user-generated content.
Identifying the goal:
How to differentiate the perceived safety issues of running. I want this app to be very inclusive so it is key to make sure the user-generated content is moderated.
Empower runners, without making them paranoid and too scared to run.
Having users remain anonymous so their safety is the top priority.
Avoid any attacks if possible.
Have access to calling the police.
Instilling confidence in a runner in a new city.
Support the running community.
Identify new running routes for a certain distance.
Target demographic:
Novice to veteran runners.
Activity level varies from highly active to casual runners.
Female.
Ages 18-45 years old.
Travelers.
My role
In an effort to continue learning and growing my creative skillset, I wanted to challenge myself to do it all. From the initial concept to the sitemap to the branding to the mobile app design.
I loved every moment of it and continue to work on this app in my spare time. I am very passionate about keeping women fit and safe so this is my creative way of being part of a solution.
Information architecture
Wireframes and user interviews
Here are a couple of problems that I thought about while I was designing the wireframes. After conducting research with a handful of local runners, I found interesting pain points and realized why this app may not be a practical idea.
Empathy map
Most security apps that I saw used dark colors and looked intimidating. Since the goal of this is to be empowered vs be paranoid, I wanted to introduce a new palette that immediately makes the user feel calm.
Most running apps have a modern, sans-serif font, and photos of people being active. I wanted to give myself the challenge of expressing a creative style simplistically without imagery.
The overall look and feel of this app go against what I saw every competitor do.
Key Learnings
I love all aspects of design (which is no surprise). I had a great time flexing different muscles on this project. From thinking through the sitemap to creating wireframes and a prototype, it was amazing to think strategically.
User testing. A couple of the people I interviewed brought up great points about potential Karens ruining this app by creating reports that are racist and subjective. I want this app to be inclusive so maybe I pivot and just do police reports instead of UGC. Part of the inspiration for this app was Ahmaud Arbery. What if he had quick access to the police while people were chasing him down? How can I help my fellow female runners feel comfortable when they get harassed daily? That is the mission statement so if this app is ever built, it would have to be heavily moderated.