City hunt
Introduction
The City Hunt app was an idea to improve the experience of moving to a new city from a potentially stressful situation into an exciting adventure. Recognising the challenges newcomers face in unfamiliar surroundings, I set out to create a solution that would make the transition not just easier, but truly enjoyable and enriching.
Opportunity
Moving to a new city presents a unique opportunity for personal growth and discovery. While it can be challenging to navigate an unfamiliar environment, this very challenge also offers the potential for exciting experiences and meaningful connections. City Hunt aims to harness this potential, turning the unknown into an adventure waiting to be explored.
Innovation
The implementation plan involves a collaborative effort with city councils to showcase small businesses and popular locations. By leveraging NFC and QR technology, I have designed scannable posters that unlock bespoke experiences at each location, creating a bridge between the digital and physical worlds of urban exploration.
Research
The approach is grounded in research, drawing insights from a World Health Organisation study on mental health. This study highlighted the potential stress and loneliness associated with relocating to a new city. Armed with these insights, we crafted City Hunt to be more than just an app - it's a companion that helps newcomers feel at home by offering a fun, engaging way to discover their new surroundings.
Design
The design idea behind City Hunt prioritises user experience. I have created an interface that's not just functional, but fun, friendly, and inviting. The app's bright, fresh colour palette sets a positive tone for exploration. By gamifying the urban discovery process, I have turned city navigation into an adventure. Users embark on journeys lasting from hours to weeks, uncovering hidden gems and creating memorable experiences along the way. Each scan of a poster unlocks unique rewards - from vouchers to AR experiences and secret menus - ensuring that every interaction is fresh and exciting.
Reflection
Reflecting on City Hunt, this idea has potential to positively impact people's lives. While it began as a concept, the app addresses real challenges faced by newcomers to cities. Looking ahead, there are numerous opportunities to enhance the user experience further. Future iterations could explore a wider range of interactive experiences triggered by poster scans, and incorporate more extensive user testing to refine the concept. The positive feedback received so far encourages me to continue developing and improving City Hunt, with the goal of making urban exploration an even more rewarding and accessible experience for everyone.