Stitch
An app designed to build connection, reduce loneliness, and share skills within communities
Role: Lead Designer Duration: 2 weeks
The challenge
How might we design an app which builds connection, reduces loneliness, and allows communities to share skills and resources?
The Process
Empathising through research, Defining the problem, Ideating solutions, Prototyping, Testing the product.
Research
My research identified two main user age-groups: 18-35 year olds, and 55+
18-35 Year Olds Default to Apps, But Experience Anxiety
Youngest users (18-35) are app-native and expect mobile-first experiences, but they experience high anxiety around making mistakes or missing information. They value streamlined processes with minimal steps and appreciate undo/edit buttons everywhere to fix mistakes without starting over.
"I like when it feels like the software is working with you"
55+ Users Prefer Websites—But Want the Benefits of Mobile
Users aged 55+ choose websites over apps (with a 90% preference), with "ease" and "convenience" as top priorities—revealing they want mobile accessibility, just with desktop clarity. They value larger touch targets and simple layouts with prominent buttons.
"Simple lay-out. Important buttons big and easily visible. (Not hidden in a corner or you needing to scroll to find them)"
Design Iteration
After conducting my research I moved onto wireframes. I started on paper, which allowed me to get ideas down quickly and easily. After a few iterations, I developed my wireframes digitally, from low-fidelity to high, eventually forming the prototype.
I went through 3 iterations to find the right visual tone that appeals to my two main user groups: 18-35 and 55+, as well as complying with WCAG and ensuring my design is clear, simple and useful.
High Fidelity Wireframes
Prototype
Reflections
I set myself a two week design sprint to complete this project, and my genuine passion for community-building drove rapid, focused ideation. While the timeframe was challenging after working on six month project, it was also refreshing.
Designing for something I care about—helping neighbours connect—gave me confidence to work ambitiously within tight constraints. The result is a concept I truly believe in.
With further development, I would build a web version for further accessible options.
I'd also truly love to see Stitch connecting real neighbours and strengthening the fabric of local communities across cities.