IRL - An App for Real Social Connection

Inspiration

While coming up with an idea for the project, we drew inspiration from our own lives and observations. We wanted to be innovative in creating a product that quantified a sense, the sense of connection was where we landed. As technology advances and we get more digitally tethered, it feels like true human connection is drifting. IRL was inspired by our desire to make that connection bright again.

What it does

IRL quantifies your connection and helps you visualize it so you can make meaningful changes and keep in touch with your social circle in real life. It also encourages you to seek out your community to make new connections and keep growing your social circle.

IRL transforms invisible data into a perceivable sense of connection by using passively monitoring GPS proximity, communication metadata, and screen-time. The app detects social drift and intervenes with personalized suggestions and nudges (such as open invites, conversation starters, or community events) to transition you from digital isolation back to a bright, real life social state.

How we built it

We build IRL using Figma Design and Figma Make. Initially, we ideated for way too long. Then we got to work - we started by answering all of the considerations on a document, creating a low fidelity wireframe of a few screens, and coming up with a really specific prompt for Figma Make. After, we continued to ideate, iterate, and make changes and edits in Figma Design. The Prototype was finalized in Figma Make.

Challenges we ran into

The biggest challenge we ran into is that neither of us had ever used Figma Make before this. It was definitely a learning curve. Additionally, we are primarily Human Factors students who are trying to brush up on some additional design skills. It was really fun to be able to practice a skill we have both been actively working on during this project. Additionally, coming up with the information architecture was pretty challenging, but very satisfying once completed.

Accomplishments that we're proud of

We're really proud we were able to come up with an idea we feel connected to. We're also really pleased with the work we were able to produce and that we were able to use our backgrounds in Human Factors Psychology to come up with an idea that not only works well, but looks pretty good. We’re also proud of the time frame that we were able to go from idea into high fidelity prototype.

What we learned

Primarily, we learned how much it takes to complete a project like this from start to finish. It gave us a new appreciation for people who do this day to day, and encouraged us to continue pursuing our interests even if it’s scary because, well, you might surprise yourself!

What's next for IRL - An App for Real Social Connection

Next for IRL, we hope to conduct some heuristic analysis, user research, and usability tests to see if it’s a feasible idea. With some testing, iterating and refining we think our concept has some real potential!

Built With

• figma
• figmadesign
• figmamake