Project

BarkBuddy

Design of a prototype for the product idea ‘Closeness at a distance’

BarkBuddy is an app designed to foster connection and shared experiences, even from a distance, through virtual dog walks. By enabling users to create shared memories, leave thoughtful surprises, and join live walks with friends, BarkBuddy strengthens relationships in an innovative and engaging way. The app’s intuitive features, such as color-coded message tracking, location-based memories, and interactive hiding spots, ensure a seamless and connected experience for users and their furry companions.

Summary

Responsibilities

  • Concept Development

  • User Flow Design

  • Wireframing and Prototyping (Figma)

  • Interactive Feedback Implementation

Development

Fostering Connection During the Pandemic

BarkBuddy was conceived during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, a time when physical distancing highlighted the importance of staying connected in new and meaningful ways. As part of a university project, the app was designed to address the challenge of fostering closeness despite separation. Inspired by the bond between dog owners and their pets, BarkBuddy transforms everyday dog walks into shared experiences by enabling live-tracked routes, creating shared memories, and leaving thoughtful surprises for friends. The project sought to bridge the gap created by physical distance, providing an engaging and intuitive platform to bring people closer during a time of unprecedented isolation.

Drawing inspiration from the joy and community of dog ownership, I conceptualized a platform that would enable users to engage in virtual dog walks, leave surprises for one another, and share memorable moments. From these initial ideas, I moved to the sketching phase, where I outlined the app’s core features and user flows, such as live-tracked routes, hidden surprises, and memory sharing. These sketches served as the blueprint for the prototype, which I then meticulously developed in Figma. Using this tool, I created a high-fidelity, interactive design, refining every element to ensure it was both intuitive and visually engaging. Throughout the process, I focused on crafting a seamless user experience, incorporating clear navigation, color-coded messaging, and consistent design patterns. The final Figma prototype captured the essence of BarkBuddy’s mission: bringing people closer together through shared moments, even when apart.

Story

Connecting Hearts and Paws: The Story of Marie and Tom

The BarkBuddy prototype revolves around two personas, Marie and Tom, who illustrate the app's core functionality and the emotional connection it fosters. Marie, inspired to try BarkBuddy after hearing about it from her friends, starts her journey by taking her dog for a walk. Along the way, she uses the app to create a hidden surprise for Tom, marking a special spot with a treat and a personalized note. Tom, on his own walk, discovers Marie's hidden surprise via the app and responds with excitement. As he continues, he revisits a shared memory spot created with Marie, inviting her to join him there in real life. Together, they relive a treasured moment, highlighting how BarkBuddy bridges distances and brings people closer through shared experiences and thoughtful gestures.