Empowering Safety with Soter
Project Type:
Identity, Communication & UX Design
Role:
Project Manager & Designer
Tools:
Illustration, Figma, After Effects, Trello & Photoshop
Challenge
Did you know that Lima is recognized as one of the most dangerous cities for women in the world? In a city where 9 out of 10 women have experienced some form of harassment, the goal of this startup emerged from the insecurity they often feel whenever they step outside. That's why Soter was created, a mobile application that prevents harassment and provides greater security for women in Lima.
Legal Ineffectiveness
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23.8% said they were completely ignored.
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30.77% said the authorities questioned the victim's behavior.
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23.8% said their situation was not recognized as street harassment
Solution
Soter aims to enhance women's safety through a user-centered mobile application that addresses their unique needs. Furthermore, we strategized a digital campaign and a landing page to provide information about the features, fostering community engagement and awareness.
USER RESEARCH & INSIGHTS
Understanding the needs
Research Methodology - Conducted interviews with 150 people in order to understand more about their experiences commuting and transporting themselves throughout the city.
This were the key findings:
01.
Safety Concerns
Women do not feel safe on the streets at any time of the day.
03.
App Shortcomings
Most safety apps do not meet women's needs, especially regarding adaptable safe routes and real-time updates.
02.
Transportation Choices
Safety concerns affect their transportation choices and expenses.
04.
Behavioral Adaptations
Women try to attract as little attention as possible to avoid danger.
APP DESIGN & FEATURES
Designing for Safety and Simplicity
The pandemic forced us to pivot to online sales, but considering the challenges users were experiencing we made sure to make this experience also a learning process for them in an easy and accessible way. We developed a mobile app featuring a virtual store, augmented reality visualization, and a plant scanner. The AR feature allows users to see how products would look in their homes, enhancing the shopping experience and increasing customer engagement.
Design Priorities
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Intuitive and minimalist interface.
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Subdued colors to avoid attracting attention at night.
Core Features to consider
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Safe Routes: Constantly updated safe routes.
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Landing Page: Includes tutorials showcasing the app's unique features.
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Emergency Contacts: Easy communication through a contact list.
SOTER APP
Wireframes to Log in & Set up your account
UNIQUE FUNCTIONALITIES
Innovating Safety Features
Color-Coded Danger Levels
The biggest challenge was finding ways to update the map effectively without increasing costs and ensuring it constantly adapts. Therefore, users are given the option to add comments and updates about zone statuses using three colors:
- Yellow: Low Danger
- Orange: Medium Danger
- Red: High Danger
This facilitates the user experience by allowing them to visualize the danger level of all areas and build a community.
Transport Mode Versatility
Interviews revealed that users' routes and experiences vary based on their mode of transport, whether public transport, private transport (cars), or walking/biking/scootering (the last three were combined into one category due to similar needs). Within the app, the user enters their destination, and it automatically provides safe route options for any of the three categories, considering updates and comments from other users.
SOS Call Functionality
Initially placed in the menu but moved to stay on screen once the route starts for quick access.
Emergency Contact Circle
Basic Version: Add 5 contacts in a circle.
Premium Version: Two circles with 10 contacts, chat, and video call functionalities.
DIGITAL ECOSYSTEM
Landing Page
A landing page was crucial when launching the app. It provides a comprehensive overview of the app’s features, such as safe route options, real-time updates, and an emergency contact function. This first point of contact engaged and converted visitors into users by clearly communicating the app’s purpose and benefits. The landing page built trust and credibility, essential for an app focused on personal safety, and ensured users understood its functionality, driving downloads and fostering a supportive community.
DIGITAL ECOSYSTEM STRATEGY LAYOUT
Building a Digital Presence
Create an interconnected digital strategy to maximize brand reach and
engagement through various channels.
This framework is crucial for the startup's digital media strategy, providing a structured approach to attract, engage, convert, and retain users. By systematically guiding potential users from initial awareness to long-term loyalty, this framework ensures a cohesive and efficient user journey
The Introduction to MVP tools outlines the essential technologies and platforms that will support the startup's initial product development and deployment.
For the mobile application, the infrastructure includes Lenode for robust app hosting, ensuring reliable performance and scalability. The front-end development leverages Swift for iOS, providing a seamless and responsive user interface, while the back-end is powered by Python and Django, offering a robust framework for efficient data management and application logic. Verimatrix is utilized for app and data encryption, ensuring high standards of security and user data protection. The landing page, a critical component for user acquisition and engagement, is supported by Dreamhost for its backend database needs, ensuring reliable data storage and accessibility.
These tools collectively form a solid foundation for the MVP, facilitating the development of a secure, efficients, and user-friendly application and landing page that are pivotal for the startup's initial market entry and user adoption.
MANAGEMENT
Contributions within the project
Given that the Soter project was carried out by just two members, effective project management was crucial to its success. As the Project Manager, I organized and led weekly meetings to maintain clear communication and coordination with my partner. These meetings were essential for several reasons:
Alignment on layouts & processes
We ensured that both of us were consistently aligned with the design and development processes. This was crucial to maintain a coherent and unified approach to the app's development.
Problem Identification & Resolution
Weekly meetings provided a platform to identify any problems or struggles early. By addressing these issues promptly, we could devise solutions quickly, preventing potential delays.
Client Pitches &
Presentation layouts
I also took the lead in creating pitches for clients. These pitches were vital for securing support and feedback, which helped guide our development process and refine our approach.
By maintaining a structured and organized strategy, we were able to navigate the complexities of the project effectively, ensuring that we stayed on track and delivered a product that met our users' needs.
