The Top Idea
We voted for Alison’s sketch as Top 1 because it has many features, which are what deaf, hard of hearing, and sign language users are looking for. We intend to make a high fidelity prototype of Alison’s sketch.
The Top Three Ideas
Pros & Cons
Those ideas are what makes SignMates differ from other dating apps as our goal is to provide a safe and inclusive space for deaf, hard of hearing, and sign language users who want to connect with each other. Each of those ideas are different because those features create many opportunities for deaf, hard of hearing, and sign language users to interact with each other. SignMates' values include inclusivity, empowerment, and equality. There are some pros and cons in our dating app:
Pros
• Signing introduction videos → increased user interaction and meaningful connections where personality can shine
• Single tab instead of multiple tabs → increased accessibility and convenience, less user touch points
• Promote inclusivity by including sign languages and catering to a wider audience
• Split-chat function → increased space for signing videos to be embedded in a conversation without sacrificing quality and video size
Cons
• Signing introduction videos may be inaccessible to deafblind users and users with low vision.
• Harendra’s idea may overwhelm because the navigation restricts to a single tab.
• Keith’s split-chat functionality may require a lot of bandwidth for signing videos.
Alison Nana
The SignMates matchmaking app is a platform that facilitates meaningful connections among sign language users. To enhance user experience and increase user interaction, features that allow users to upload a video introduction in addition to their profile picture, hearing status, interests, location, and more photos will be implemented.
This user profile feature enhances the user experience and increases user interaction on the app. By adding those features, we provide an authentic glimpse into the users' personality, improve the matching algorithm, and improve accessibility for deaf and hard-of-hearing users. We believe this makes SignMates an unique differentiator and a more engaging and meaningful platform for sign language users seeking meaningful connections.
Harendra Udurawana
The matchmaking section of the dating app will have three features: “Love”, “Networking” and “Friends.” These features will be accessible through a single tab.
The top row will feature three oval buttons that allow users to easily switch between different matchmaking modes.
In the center of the app, a video introduction in sign language will introduce the user. At the bottom of the app, three buttons will allow the user to choose whether to like, dislike, or go back.
This layout for the matchmaking section of the app offers benefits such as enhanced accessibility, streamlined navigation and a more engaging user experience which can improve user satisfaction and increase meaningful connections.
Keith Delk
The split-chat function allows for customization, video playback, and chat features. Depending on the user’s intention, they can drag up and down the bar to minimize/maximize the height of the “video mail” and the chat functions. At the top, there will be the potential match's profile picture and the chat’s customized banner.
Nhan Tran
