London Homeless Footpath Mobile Application (Published)
Driven by a profound interest in the social impact of graphic design, I conceptualized and launched the 'London Homeless Footpath' mobile application, dedicated to supporting homeless individuals. This project reflects my commitment to leveraging design for positive social change across various sectors.
The application garnered attention in 'The Evening Standard' as the first smartphone app tailored specifically for homeless Londoners. Available on Android and iOS platforms, it features a Google map displaying locations of soup kitchens, night shelters, and day centers offering job advice. Developing this app involved extensive experimentation in user experience design and effectively translating complex information to facilitate innovative solutions.
During the project's peak, I extensively researched 'Street Link,' a similar website for reporting rough sleepers in England and Wales. Despite its existence, I found the system lacking in addressing critical issues effectively. Motivated by these shortcomings, I conducted numerous interviews with homeless individuals and personally visited and contacted facilities such as shelters, day centers, healthcare providers, and food banks to verify their operational status. This meticulous process was essential in identifying and addressing key challenges.
However, despite initial collaborations with a major charity in England to enhance the application, divergent priorities led to a decision to maintain the project as a nonprofit venture. This experience underscored the importance of maintaining integrity and staying true to the project's altruistic goals.
A vision close to my heart is the installation of kiosk machines in every subway station, enabling homeless individuals to access the system even without smartphones. They could reserve a seat at day centers or shelters in advance, ensuring better utilization of available resources. With continued dedication and expertise, I aspire to further develop and implement this application for broader community benefit.
This project has provided me with invaluable insights into presenting cohesive design solutions that foster public engagement and raise awareness about critical social issues. While challenges abound, my resolve remains firm in pursuing meaningful initiatives that contribute positively to society.
DESIGN PROCESS
