AuthentiCity logo: a man silhouette, buildings, mountains and the sun

AuthentiCity

Deliverables

  • Problem Statement & User Needs
  • Creative Brief
  • Mobile App Prototype

Project Description

AuthentiCity tackles a universal challenge for newcomers and travelers: the struggle to uncover a city’s authentic heartbeat beyond crowded landmarks. By connecting three key user types—seasoned explorers craving hidden gems, recent transplants seeking community integration, and passionate locals eager to share insider knowledge — the app transforms discovery into a two‑way cultural exchange. Users can browse geolocated “gems,” RSVP to small‑group tours or pop‑up events, and ask questions to locals directly, all within an engaging, mobile‑responsive interface.

Grounded in human‑centered design, AuthentiCity combines community‑driven content with smart filtering (by category, distance, and ratings) and gamified contributions (badges for top spotters and event organizers). The result is a seamless platform that not only surfaces off‑the‑beaten‑path cafés, parks, and cultural spots, but also fosters real connections — making every destination feel less like a place you visit and more like a place you belong.

AuthentiCity travel discovery app UX prototype in Figma

Goal

Define a clear problem statement and articulate the core user needs, then design an intuitive travel discovery mobile app that elevates travelers’ and new residents’ experiences by helping them seamlessly discover and engage with authentic, local culture.

Approach

Collaborating as a six‑person team for our UX Design course, we first crafted a creative brief covering purpose, pain points, audience, competitors and unique selling points. From user interviews we validated user needs and mapped journeys, then moved into Figma to create wireframes, interactive prototypes, and a cohesive visual identity.

Challenges

Learning Figma’s advanced prototyping tools (side‑scroll galleries, component variants, overlays) on a tight timeline pushed me to explore and experiment deeply.

Results

Delivered a user-tested, intuitive and visually compelling Figma travel-app prototype. Testers praised the streamlined discovery flow and community features for making local exploration effortless — and validated the design’s potential to bring travelers, newcomers, and residents together in meaningful ways.
Authenticity Moodboard with colour palette, typography and UI elements Community page on the app My favorites filter ranking filter
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