Research Findings

Our research consisted of three different components: semi-structured interviews, competitive analysis, and observations of our users during their walk home at night.

 

Through our semi-structured interviews and observations of our users, we found that young adults:

• Had no option other than walking due to a lack of free resources late at night

• Felt more comfortable when walking home with friends or calling friends on the phone

• Wanted to reassure their friends and family that they were safe after they arrived home

• Felt safer walking on campus compared to areas off campus

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Competitive analysis allowed us to examine existing products and mobile applications to identify how they met user needs and how they fell short. We looked at SafeTrek, Companion, Watch Over Me, and the Nimb Ring. Overall, the products that we analyzed were relatively simple and easy to use. However, there were some common problems across all four, including:

• Prohibitive prices

• Only useful in an emergency situation

• Require user to rely on others to watch over them as they walk

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