Cupid Corgi
The desire for emotional connections has never been greater, especially in our fast-paced society.
Yet, despite many dating solutions, countless singles still express loneliness and dissatisfaction. A quick scroll through Reddit reveals a pattern of struggles and heartaches, illustrating a profound truth:
Many apps, driven by the profits of subscription-based business models, benefit from keeping users single. Just as big pharmaceutical companies profit from illness, many dating apps thrive on the loneliness they claim to alleviate.
On the other hand, as someone with a business background, I recognize that these platforms are ultimately businesses and need to make money to survive. This raises an important question:
How can a dating app be redesigned to create a win-win solution for online daters and businesses?
To uncover the real experience of swiping left and right, I interviewed and surveyed users aged 18-30, the core demographic of online dating.
Predictable Path
Once two singles swipe and match, their journey often follows a predictable path:
The Dark Side Behind the Predictable Path
At first glance, the path from match to connection appears straightforward.
However, research revealed the complexities that can lead to misunderstandings, frustrations, and even the end of a potentially happy and lasting connection. It's a classic case of “death by a thousand paper cuts.”
Despite the emotional toll, the innate desire to find a partner drives many back to these apps, perpetuating a cycle of hope and disappointment.
On the other hand, current dating solutions often leave users to navigate complexities alone after the initial match. With little incentive to stay, users frequently transition to texting or social media after some initial communication. This raises the next question:
How can a dating app be designed in a way that supports the entire online dating “life cycle” – from being strangers to lovers?
The most organic way to meet people is through mutual friends. What if we create a virtual wingman (or wingdog)?
As Cupid Corgi is a core part of the solution and a new concept, I wanted to test this idea. I conducted two rounds of usability testing and received feedback from 10 testers.
When Cupid Appears
Call Permission
First Date Planning Feature
Cupid Corgi is a dating app that helps singles overcome initial dating hurdles and fosters meaningful connections. With a new business model, the business and user goals align.
Connect Through Similarities
When a user matches with someone, Cupid informs them about compatibility factors such as values, personality traits, and hobbies, leading to more engaging conversations and meaningful connections.
Ready to Meet In-Person?
Cupid privately gauges matches’ interest in calling and meeting up. This reduces fears of rejection and prevents miscommunication that could lead to unmatching or ghosting.
Personalized Date Planning
Cupid eases first date planning stress by helping users plan their date through a short questionnaire. This enables users to focus on knowing each other without worrying about planning the perfect first date.
A New Business Model
While many dating apps charge users for premium features, Cupid Corgi offers all features for free. Its goals align with the users' desire to go on in-person dates. Through partnerships with businesses, Cupid Corgi receives a commission when users go on first dates and redeem the app's offer.
How Cupid Corgi Can Help Singles like Kyle
"The app is not intimidating to use as it’s like having a friend/ wingman through the process.”
“This app is a great way to explore date options and provides a personalized dating experience."
"I love how this app gives more specific directions and helps with getting over the first couple hurdles when meeting someone online.“
“I would try it! Most apps focus on matches but Cupid Corgi also helps with after matching.”
"I like how this app is action-oriented with less awkwardness and random ghosting. It’s a good way to look for a long-term partner. I also really like corgis.“
"LOVE the business partnership idea."
Different Users Have Different Needs
A challenge was balancing user preferences. For example, some testers wanted to meet their match sooner, while others preferred to wait. I addressed this by providing a call/meetup pop-up option that allowed users to engage without pressure for immediate action.
Making Business Impact through UX Design
Through my UX design projects, especially this one, I came to appreciate coming from a business background as I design not only for users but also business stakeholders.
Importance of Talking to Users
By talking to users, I refined my ideas and tested my assumptions. I want to thank the over 100 people involved in the project who shared their experiences through interviews and surveys, participated in usability testing, and provided valuable feedback on features and designs.
If I Were to Do This Project Again…
I would conduct further usability testing to determine the optimal level of technological support in the relationship-building process, ensuring it complements the natural process rather than hinders it. Moreover, I would explore ways to ensure users redeem first-date offers so that Cupid Corgi can receive commissions.
