ruff ruff®

Project Overview

Ruff Ruff began as a project solely intent on applying form design writing concepts and best practices. The objective was to create a streamlined online adoption process, while incorporating personality, voice and tone. The project took place over the span of four weeks and involved research, ideation, feedback and critique, wireframing and design execution

Once ruff ruff had a solid adoption process designed, I went back to see what I could do to improve the branding. My objective was to create an inviting, fun and modern brand identity that resonates with potential pet-owners.

Research and Discovery

My research zeroed in on the Austin pet adoption landscape. I examined existing adoption apps and shelter websites, and I interviewed people who had adopted pets or were considering adoption. Key findings included:

• Disconnected Info: Potential adopters can often visit multiple websites or shelters to find a pet.
• Inconsistent UX: Adoption processes vary, which can result in difficulties setting expectations.
• Emotional Journey: Adopting a pet is an emotional decision that the design should reflect.
• Need for Data: Adopters want comprehensive information about a pet's medical and health information.

Strategy and Concept

Based on my research, I developed the following strategy:

• Brand Personality: Friendly, trustworthy, and joyful, yet professional and sincere.
• Value Proposition: To provide a smooth and supportive experience for finding and adopting pets.
• Key Features:
• Detailed pet profiles with photos, videos, and descriptions.
• Advanced search filters.
• A map of nearby shelters and foster homes.
• Tools for applications and communication.
• Resources and tips for pet care.

The core concept was to design a mobile app that is both user-friendly and heartwarming, guiding people through the adoption process with confidence.

Design Process

The design process included these stages:

• User Flow and Wireframing: I detailed how users would engage with the mobile application and created simple mid-fidelity wireframe prototypes to demonstrate a pet adoption workflow.
• UI Design: I designed high-fidelity mockups next, applying a simple identity to create a clean, modern, and welcoming interface.
• Prototyping: I built multiple interactive prototypes using Figma to proof the interaction and user experience.
• Iteration: I refined and improved the designs based on user feedback and testing to improve usability.

Mid-fidelity wireframes built in figma.

Logo design explorations

Final Outcome

The final result is a complete brand identity and a fully designed mobile pet adoption application. Key deliverables are:

• A complete brand identity system.
• Detailed mockups of the mobile app.
• An interactive prototype.

The app is designed to be easy to use, engaging, and accessible, providing a positive experience and promoting responsible pet adoption.

Reflection

This project allowed me to apply my visual design skills to a meaningful problem. I learned the importance of user research in design and gained a better understanding of the mobile app design process. Given more time, I would continue to make enhancements to the visual style and brand guidelines for ruff ruff®. Overall, I am pleased with the results and believe that ruff ruff® could be a successful pet adoption option for the Austin area and beyond.