Blush
UX Research | UX Design | UI Design
Blush is a dating app that has been designed to help people find meaningful and healthy relationships, which are essential for a positive and productive life. Unlike other dating apps that focus on casual hookups, Blush is centered around serious, real relationships.
Blush understands that finding a compatible partner can be challenging and time-consuming, and that's why the app has been designed to make the dating process as seamless and efficient as possible. The app's features are geared towards creating a safe and friendly environment where users can connect and build long-lasting relationships.
The Problem
Online dating provides many benefits, such as convenience, accessibility, and a broad pool of potential partners. However, it also comes with its share of problems, including mental exhaustion, rejection, harassment, false identities, and lack of connection. It is essential for users to be aware of these issues and take steps to protect themselves while using online dating platforms. This may include setting boundaries, being mindful of their mental health, and being cautious when meeting people in person. By being aware of the potential problems and taking steps to address them, online dating can be a more positive and rewarding experience.
The Solution
To address the problems of online dating, a UI/UX solution could be designed to make the user experience more streamlined, positive, and safe. Here are some possible solutions:
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Simplified Interface: To reduce the mental energy required to manage multiple conversations and matches, the app could feature a simplified interface that allows users to easily manage their matches and conversations. This could include a dashboard that organizes matches and conversations in a user-friendly way, making it easy to see who is interested in you and who you are interested in.
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Anti-Harassment Features: To combat harassment on the platform, the app could feature anti-harassment features, such as reporting tools and filters that automatically block messages that contain abusive or inappropriate language. Additionally, users could have the option to control who can contact them, such as only allowing messages from matches or mutual friends.
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Profile Verification: To prevent false identities and catfishing, the app could require users to verify their profile using a government-issued ID or other means of identification. This would help to ensure that users are who they say they are, and could also help to build trust and credibility on the platform.
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Empathy-Driven Design: To address the problem of rejection, the app could focus on empathy-driven design that acknowledges and supports users' emotions. This could include personalized messages that offer support and encouragement when users are feeling down, or alerts that remind users to take a break and practice self-care when they are feeling overwhelmed.
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Intelligent Matching: To improve the likelihood of finding a genuine connection, the app could use intelligent matching algorithms that take into account user preferences, interests, and behavior. This could help to connect users who are more likely to have a strong connection, reducing the amount of time and effort required to find a compatible partner.
Conclusion:
By implementing these UI/UX solutions, the app could help to mitigate the problems of online dating, creating a more positive and safe experience for users. This could lead to higher user engagement, greater trust in the platform, and more successful relationships.
User Research
Our research focused on young adults between the ages of 18 and 30 who use dating apps and are looking for serious, long-term relationships. We conducted online surveys and in-person interviews to gather insights into their dating experiences, preferences, and pain points, with a specific focus on users who are tired of matching with people that don't have the same relationship goals as them.
Users who are looking for serious, long-term relationships reported feeling frustrated and exhausted when matching with people who are not looking for the same kind of relationship. They expressed a desire for an app that would prioritize compatibility and help them find potential matches who share their relationship goals. he most common pain points reported by users included excessive swiping, managing multiple conversations, and feeling overwhelmed by the number of options available on dating apps. Users also reported experiencing anxiety and disappointment when matches did not lead to successful relationships, and frustration when matches were not genuine or honest about their intentions.
Users preferred apps that prioritize compatibility and genuine connection, with a focus on meaningful conversations and shared values. They appreciated features such as detailed profiles, icebreakers, and in-app video calls that helped them initiate conversations and build trust with potential matches. Users also preferred apps that facilitated easy communication and transparency about relationship goals and expectations.
User Personas
Competitive Analysis
Pros
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Simple Signup Process
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A lot of features are free
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A modern design of the platform
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Filter your matches for gender, location, age, distance, ethnicity and religion
Cons
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Users are from different parts of the globe
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Users of Hinge have different goals (some members arrive at this app to find a one-night stand. However, others are looking for a long-term relationship)
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Even if you have skipped the profile, it can appear in your feed again
Pros
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Excellent privacy and safety features
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Fun and inclusive interface
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Video chat
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Setting up an account is easy, because your bio can’t be longer than 300 characters.
Cons
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Profiles less meaty than other app
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no guarantee that matching will lead to meaningful conversation or dates
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Must message within 24 hours
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Profiles lack the personal touch, reducing information to the absolute basics
Affinity diagram
I used an affinity diagram to organize and categorize a large amount of data/ feedback from a group of people to help to identify patterns, themes, and trends that may not be immediately apparent when looking at the data in its raw form.
Information Architecture
The information architecture of Blush should focus on providing clear and concise communication between the user and the app.
The app should utilize visual cues, icons, and language that will help users navigate and understand the app's features quickly.
