mobile application prototype

-hearted

  • Concordia University, Montréal, Canada. 2015.
  • a collaboration with Dessy Davidova,
    Chloe Raymond, Sarah Denis & Mariana Leyton

Through this mobile application prototype, our goal is to improve self-worth and inner strength through a sense of community prompting victims of domestic violence, who are seeking professional help to break away from their hostile environments. The search tag allowing the mobile application to be found in the digital distribution platforms is “-Hearted.” It is important to write the exact name with the hyphen and the capital “H” in order for the application to be found. This makes it less likely that someone outside our demographic target would find our application. Mobile phones are private objects, however, that is not the case in abusive relationships since in most cases the abuser dominates all aspects of the relationship. For the safety of the users “-Hearted” disguises and functions as a calculator, one of the most benign applications, until the code, “1 x 0=” is entered; then the real purpose of this application is revealed. It has filtering options in order to connect with people who fit in each user’s situation.

This application consists of three main sections: exercises, a forum, and resources. The exercises are motivational and uplifting. The forum consists of three sub-sections; “Latest Posts”, “Ask a Question”, and an FAQ. The resources section gives information about nearby organizations and shelters. To add, our tag gives instructions about the use of this application and a message of support. It is accompanied by a metal ring that is usually found on curtains and other objects. This ubiquitous object does not bring attention to itself symbolizing absolutely nothing to others, and yet being the repository of a strong desire to survive and thrive. Leaving is not an event, it is a process, and so we want people trying to leave to have something to stay with them throughout their process. I was involved in the concept as well as the layout of this application.

© Copyright 2023 Maria Mahdessian