Is it possible to increase security? What are the things that make women feel safer?
What are some risk factors?
Ideation
After doing research and talking to users I was able to find relevant features for the solution. One of the main features of an MVP includes: finding the safest route. This would be an algorithm gathering data from user inputs through the app.
User Journey
Building Empathy
- Sofia, 18
"I'm always cautious and alert, especially in unfamiliar places. I sometimes get extremely nervous "
-Ana, 32
"I've avoided going out if I know I will be alone. I tend to change my plans to make sure I have company"
-Marissa, 25
"I'm scared that I could be seen as an easy target - get rapped robbed or kidnapped"
- Paulina, 54
" I always carry my phone with me and try to keep it handy but not too visible"
Now
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Getting the Safest Route (Algorithm)
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Emergency Push
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Adding "trackers"
Then
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Creating a Report
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Showing other users report on map
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User rating (feeding algorithm)
Later
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Commenting on Reports
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Changing trackers during route
Feature Prioritization
Prototype: first iteration
To: gether
Supporting the safety of women commuting or traveling alone
Violence and insecurity are persistent factors in society to which, unfortunately, women are more prone to becoming victims. There is a "plus of terror" for women that generates a limitation when commuting or traveling. The experience of going out alone, being a woman should not represent extra stress and the fear and anxiety of going out alone should be minimized.
Shaping a solution:
first iteration
After the initial concept was defined with relevant features, I was able to craft the first paper prototype for user testing (I love paper prototypes!!)
Designing to: gether
Paper prototypes were tested with five potential users. They were asked to perform the most relevant tasks. After observing them perform the tasks, they provided feedback in a Q&A section.
Who is she?
She feels safer walking by places that she is familiar with
She tries to avoid places that she has heard are dangerous
She feels anxious in places that are dark
Having a companion is a huge relief.
She feels safer during the day because she knows more stores are open. This means more options to ask for help or shelter
Refining: towards a
new iteration
Edit One
Providing the user with the option of choosing from several provided alternative routes, instead of one.
Significant edits
The two shown edits related to the most relevant features were implemented in the second iteration of the product
Edit Two
Providing the user with the option of re-routing if disliking or feeling uncomfortable while on the current route
Wireframes
Mockups and prototype reference feature prioritization.
Exploration
An essential part of the research was finding out and being able to better understand the user. Ten semi-structured interviews were conducted. My goal was to get insight into specific concerns and how users are currently navigating the experience of commuting alone. Insights:
She feels safer in familiar places with because she knows where to go or even run to in case of being in danger, she knows where to ask for help
She often carries a tool that she could use as self-defense:
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Pepper spray,
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Swiss Army knife
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Panic alarms
She tries to avoid places she has heard are dangerous. If she knows she can avoid these places and take routes that she has not heard of any assault she feels less anxious.
She feels safer if she is able to be in contact with someone who is on the lookout for updates on her arrival.
Findings and Features
Insight One
Feels uncomfortable using unknown routes to get to places due to fear of them being unsafe. Especially dark and lonely places
Feature One
Relying on algorithm to display "safest route" and displaying all reports from the community within the chosen route
Insight Two
Dislikes commuting/traveling alone. Always wants to let friends and family know when they arrive at their destination
Feature Two
Add "trackers" to share constant location and receive notifications of re-routes and arrival.
Insight Three
Wants to make her own decisions based on how comfortable she feels.
Feature Three
Providing two alternative routes and re-routing options while on route
Insight Four
She looks for open establishments with people when she feels uncomfortable or unsafe
Feature Four
Displaying nearby open establishments with the option to re-route to get there
