At-A-Glance
Tails is an end-to-end mobile application that helps users find friends, partners, and even network safely, within a cosplay community.
UX/UI Designer, user research, visual design, interaction design.
My Role
July 2024 - October 2024
Timeline
Figma, Miro, Optimal Workshop
Tools
The Problem
Say Goodbye to Online Harassment: A Safe Space for Furry and Cosplay Communities.
Furry and cosplay enthusiasts face significant challenges in building and maintaining a safe, inclusive, and accessible community. The lack of user verification on many apps fosters harmful behavior, and online harassment while an overemphasis on "taboo" content overshadows core community values. Additionally, high costs and subpar online platforms limit accessibility to community events and virtual engagement.
The Solution
Tails is a secure and welcoming app for furry and cosplay enthusiasts, featuring multi-factor authentication, community guidelines, user-generated content, interest-based groups, and virtual events. Premium users can host events and enjoy unlimited matches, with enhanced privacy and personalized features, fostering meaningful connections and encouraging long-term growth.
Welcoming. Safe. Inclusive
Photo verification ensures you're connecting with real people, not just pictures, boosting trust and making interactions more genuine. It adds a layer of security that helps you feel confident and safe, all while encouraging meaningful connections.
Join in on the fun!
Tails will provide interest groups for users by matching them based on shared passions. This personalized approach fosters authentic conversations and deeper connections, allowing users to feel more comfortable and safe with like-minded people
Level Up!
Level up your cosplay game with premium features! Enjoy unlimited swipes, exclusive profile boosts, early access to events, and the ability to connect with like-minded cosplayers.
Research
Conducting a competitive market analysis between 2 direct and 2 indirect competitors, helped me gain insight on potential opportunities, and find gaps in the market.
COMPETITOR MARKET ANALYSIS
All four competitors are free to the public, with the option to subscribe or pay for specific benefits.
The largest common pain point between competitors was the significant ratio between male and female users.
3/4 competitors have ‘safety tips’ on their platform, however, Bumble uses a photo authentication safety feature that many of their users appreciate.
USER INTERVIEWS
P1
P2
P3
P4
P5
P6
P7
P8
P9
P10
APPS
Ferzu Grokio
Ferzu Howlr
POF Match
Grimr Tinder
Howlr Tinder
Hinge Match
CHALLENGES
Identity Theft
Online Harrasment
Safety authn
Pressure on app
FEATURE RECOMMENDATIONS
Remove 24hr time limit.
Add video to profile
Add an undo match
Video messages
Prompted Photo
Video chat
Safety authn
Interest Quiz
Location tracking
Authentication quiz
SUCCESS
Very Successful
Somewhat successful
Somewhat successful
Somewhat successful
Average Success
No Success
Hinge Grokio
Tinder Bumble
Bumble Eharmony
OkCupid Match
Some apps just feel sketch
24 hour time constraint
Some apps don’t feel safe.
Unwanted messages
App feels unsafe
Average Success
Average Success
Not at all successful
No Success
KEY INSIGHTS
In user interviews, the majority of participants preferred Tinder, followed by Howlr and Ferzu. However, many users noted that some apps created an unpleasant atmosphere and were slow to use. A popular suggestion was to add photo authentication, along with a feature to connect online through community-generated activities.
Empathize
USER FURSONA
BACKGROUND
Passionate about cosplay community and are eager to share that interest with someone who truly understands and appreciates it. They are actively seeking a genuine connection with others who share similar passions, whether through in-person interactions or dating apps.
NEEDS
A platform that prioritizes the safety of its users.
Dating profile that requires a real photo or photo authentication of the user, not only their persona.
A platform that established a community first approach to connecting.
PAIN POINTS
Unhappy with the narrative behind their fandom.
Feels like many of the dating apps fetishize the community and don’t focus on the common interest of being fans.
Safety Concerns
POV’S & HMW’S
A majority of dating apps created with fandoms as the foundation have leaned more towards fetishizing the interest of these communities resulting in negative feedback from these groups that dislike the narrative.
How might we create a dating platform that still focuses on community and dating without the stigma?
RISK
If we create a dating app built around specific fandoms, do we run the risk of falling into the same trap, potentially having similar users, creating a fixated atmosphere much like the other apps?
Will creating fun, weekly prompts or challenges for users on the dating app set a community first tone and mitigate this potential risk?
GOAL
Their goal is to engage with like-minded individuals, and create a space where they can share their passion for cosplay.
BACKGROUND
This user persona is passionate about cosplay and eager to make meaningful friendships within the community. Due to challenges like distance or time, they are looking for online opportunities to connect, share ideas, and build relationships with like-minded individuals. They value belonging and aim to form lasting friendships beyond just costumes and events.
NEEDS
They need a space where they feel accepted and supported, helping them build a sense of community and connection with others who share similar interests.
They need accessible online platforms to connect with others who share their passion for cosplay, as in-person events aren't always possible.
PAIN POINTS
Their passion for cosplay isn't fully understood by those outside the community, and struggle to find others who truly "get" their enthusiasm beyond surface-level interactions.
Existing online spaces may focus more on the ‘taboo” rather than fostering meaningful friendships.
POV’S & HMW’S
A passionate cosplayer who loves community but often struggles to find a safe space online and is worried about the risk of judgement.
How might we create a mobile app that provides a safe and inclusive space for cosplayers to connect, share their creations, and build meaningful relationships with others who understand and support their passion?
RISK
the app fails to effectively connect users with like-minded individuals, it could result in frustration and disengagement, reducing its value as a tool for building meaningful relationships in the cosplay community.
Will promoting a supportive atmosphere by rewarding positive behavior with badges, recognition, and spotlighting user achievements for constructive feedback and interactions create a more open community?
GOAL
Their goal is to find someone who not only connects on a personal level but also resonates with their unique fandom or hobby, allowing for deeper and more meaningful connections.
CARD SORTING
Based on previous card sorting, I created an Information Architecture that meets user expectations
INFORMATION ARCHITECTURE
Develop
LO-FI WIREFRAMES
UI Kit & Design System
I created a design system for the Tails mobile app to help with organization, efficiency, and team communication. The Tails design system helped me as a designer come back to the foundations of the product time and time again, and easily build up from there.
Usability Testing
BFF Task
Dating Task
Events
Matched BFF Profile didn’t scroll vertically
More Severe Issue
4/5 users need clarity community page
2/5 participants error b/w‘like’ & ‘match’
Modal didn’t appear for participants
Less Frequent Issue
Modal didn’t appear for participants
Participants confused by icons next to search bar
User nav from dashboard to shop
Less Severe Issue
Users had a difficult time b/w profile pg & shop
Marketplace is difficult to find on the app
More Frequent Issue
Difficult to nav b/w marketplace & discovery
Change the interest section to stand out
Marketplace seems dcd from the app
KEY FINDINGS
Most users struggled with the marketplace, with 7 out of 10 unable to find it and confused by the search bar icons. The navigation bar was inconsistent, and the confirmation modal didn’t appear. Users liked the color swap between dating and besties, but 6 out of 10 needed more clarity between the community and dashboard screens.
Implementing Feedback
BEFORE
AFTER
Utilized white space by extending the card image, making the swipe function more accessible.
BEFORE
AFTER
Messaging call to action placed beneath matched profiles to prompt users to initiate conversation.
BEFORE
AFTER
Designed a more engaging sign in page, were users can immediately feel they have joined a community of creativity and adventure!
High Fidelity Design
Find your fur-ever friend.
Our dating app connects people from all walks of life who share a love for cosplay. Whether you're a pro, a fan, or just curious, you'll find matches who understand your passion. Bond over costumes, conventions, and all things cosplay in a space where creativity and shared interests come together!
Let’s tail-or your profile.
Tailoring your profile to connect with people who share your passions. Showcase your latest cosplay, favorite fandoms, or creative projects to stand out.
Reflection
Reflecting on the UX design process for the mobile community cosplay app, I gained valuable insights into the unique needs of cosplayers seeking both social connection and creative expression. The main challenge was balancing the app’s dual purpose—fostering a supportive cosplay community while offering a platform for dating and meaningful interactions. User research revealed that personalization, easy navigation, and a sense of belonging were key priorities. Ensuring a safe environment led to the integration of moderation tools and privacy settings. The iterative design process highlighted the importance of clear categorization for cosplay events, community features, and dating, making it easier for users to connect. Overall, the project reinforced the need for an intuitive, inclusive app that meets users’ functional needs while nurturing the cosplay community spirit.