Do it. - Adventure is just a prompt away.

‘Do it’ is an iOS application, designed to send accessible and tailored adventure prompts to users during their everyday routines. The prompts are generated by local Aussie users and shared with other users, creating a playful, human connection.

Overview

As part of the Apple Foundation Program at UTS, my team and I were tasked with developing an Apple platform prototype in just four weeks. We decided to tackle the problem of how modern society is losing its sense of exploration. Through intensive, full-time project work, we researched the issue and identified opportunities for creative solutions.

Our answer was Do it — a unique app that integrates exploration prompts into your daily routine. When you open the app, you’ll find a range of tailored prompts waiting for you, from cosy and quirky to completely wild. The best part? These prompts are based on real hobbies, adventures, and life hacks submitted by everyday Aussies. Explore at your own pace and add a spark of spontaneity to your routine with Do it.

MY ROLE:

Project Manager & Interface Designer.

Problem solving, Swift Coding, ideation, market research, user interviews, data analysis, wireframing, prototyping, usability testing, interface design, branding & pitching.

May 2024

Why is adventure a luxury?

Problem

If you search up “things to do in Sydney” you will be met with endless sponsored content…

It feels like genuine human experiences and connections are being lost in the digital world, with our fixation on expensive methods of exploration.

Why can’t we integrate novel exploration into our everyday without the price tag?

My team and I took this simple idea and chose to create an impactful and creative solution that can be used by anyone with a busy schedule.

Investigation

  • 1. User Research

    As a team, we interviewed five full-time professionals seeking more opportunities for exploration. I designed the interview questions, defined research goals, and facilitated the sessions. In addition, I conducted desk research into existing “exploration” apps and the broader problem scope. Key findings revealed that users perceive exploration as inaccessible due to limited time and travel budgets.

  • 2. Generating 64 app ideas

    I facilitated a rapid ideation session using the Lotus Blossom technique, generating a wide range of app ideas - unique, simple, wacky, or wild - that aligned with the problem scope. I led the activity by creating a supportive environment where the team felt confident to share freely, reinforcing the principle that every idea is valuable, no matter what.

  • 3. Making a Decision

    After collaborative brainstorming and discussion, my team and I selected the idea of “Living and exploring a stranger’s interests for a day”, which I had contributed during the Lotus Blossom exercise. Initially set aside for later review, the idea was revisited and unanimously recognised by the team as unique, engaging, and well-aligned with the goals of our solution.

Defining the MVP

Due to the fast-paced nature of the Apple Foundation Program, we only had one day to create wireframes and a low-fidelity prototype. I drew inspiration from a game we played in class, where we wrote facts about ourselves on a piece of paper, scrunched it into a ball, and threw it across the room. We then picked up a paper ball that wasn’t ours and tried to find its owner.

The simplicity and human connection of this game sparked the idea for our app, Do it: what if users could write adventure prompts on paper balls for others to catch?

Interface Design

Following a ‘paper-like’ feel, the interface was designed to be playful, modern, yet simple. I led the design process with only two days to create a functional high-fidelity prototype. It was certainly challenging, but by delegating tasks effectively, we completed the interface just in time for development.

‘Paper Ball’ Adventure Prompts

Users receive a set of ‘paper balls’ which have unique explorations written within them. Users swipe through their options of prompts to select their favourite one to explore. Prompts are refreshed daily.

Explore at your own pace

You can exit the app and re-enter to continue explorations as your own pace. Making it easy, low-committment and rewarding.

Tailored to your taste

Use filters to tailor your experience on the app. Whether you like to stay at home or go on bold, outdoor adventures - you can select your preferences to make the experience entertaining for you.

Share your adventures!

Contribute to a community of growing explorers by writing your own, unique adventure prompts and sending them out into the world!

Showcasing ‘Do it’ - UTS Software Engineering Showcase 2024

I delivered multiple presentations to showcase the app, including an in-class presentation and a formal pitch at the UTS Software Engineering Showcase. To make the experience engaging, I introduced physical props and encouraged the audience to write prompts and share their unique explorations with others.

Do it was well received, earning many votes for the People’s Choice Award. Although we didn’t win first place, it was rewarding to see the strong interest and engagement from the crowd, as one of the most unique app concepts during the night.

Key Takeaways

Knowing when to step up and step down in the project.

As a designer, storyteller, and researcher, I was heavily involved in the design and investigation phase of the project, leading the team throughout the first two weeks of the program. Once development and programming began, I stepped back to support a new team lead - one of my teammates with expertise in Swift. Trusting others and empowering our individual strengths always allows us to succeed and work efficiently as a team.

True learning happens when I prioritise reflection.

Most of my learning in this program extended beyond the final product. It was about teamwork, communication, leadership, and the connections I built along the way. I discovered that I thrive when I set small, consistent goals each day and that I deeply value human connection. Reflecting at the end of each lesson helped me better understand how I work, function, and view my world as a professional.