Process

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  Searching for Someone

  To search for a specific relationship, the user uses the pre-existing drop down fields. After the user inputs their search, they can define the proximity and relevance to filter down people in their area.

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  Match: Finding Mutual Interests

  Once the app has found a match in their area, it shows the user their result. Each result displays the level of compatibilities between the users while keeping their identities private. At this point the user can decide if they would like to meet in person or decline the match.

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  Accepted: Conversation Started and Meet Up

  After both parties have mutually accepted that they would like to meet, the app provides full personal information and a mid-point to meet. Instead of initially giving the users all the information they need to learn about the other user, the application offers questions that aid as a conversation starter.

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  Feature: Giving Directions

  The application utilizes native map application to help direct both user to each other. Piazza knows the nearest safe social area to facilitate first time meetings.

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  The Problem

  Social networking has brought people together in new ways, but has created new social deformities. Because younger people depend on technology more than previous generations, they are having difficulty with interaction with other. Instead of making another social network that connects user solely over a digital platform, there is an opportunity to help people build meaningful relationships outside of the digital realm.

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  User Research

  To better understand the needs of various demographics, I interviewed numerous user groups to understand their daily lives and how they interacted with others. By learning how they met other people, it was clear that most people met others through friends or colleagues. At this moment the question surfaced, how do you meet people if there is no mutual person?

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  Refining Vision

  Over numerous iterations of the concept testing on users, Piazza was refined to its simplest form. Instead of trying to imitate other social networks, this application was meant to bring people together in the physical world. Witnessing how disconnected people are becoming between each other, Piazza strives to build micro communities by bringing like minded people together.

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  Creating Flows

  Using post-it notes and tape, I worked with users to map out the application experience. The benefit of using physical tools is that it allowed me to collaborate more freely and move touchpoints around when needed.

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  Wireframes and U.I.

  Before moving into visual design, I translated the flows into wireframes. Trying to use existing design patterns on Android’s Honeycomb to design major screens. After the functionality was mapped out, I designed each screen so that we could build a video to communicate the concept.