Aims and Objectives

Background Research

The background research for this project involved a comprehensive analysis of the functionality and design of existing animal shelter apps in Ireland and other countries. This included evaluating apps for usability, aesthetics, functionality, content, accessibility, and performance.

Competitive Analysis

The team conducted a competitive research analysis, selected a variety of apps, and performed heuristic evaluations and user testing. This process helped identify common usability issues and areas for improvement, comparing the results with international standards to ensure the design meets the needs of pet shelters in Ireland.

1. Defining Analysis Parameters: The project team established criteria for evaluating Irish animal shelter applications, focusing on usability, aesthetics, functionality, content, accessibility, and performance.
2. Variety of Apps Selection: A diverse range of animal shelter apps from various parts of the world, including Ireland, India, and Canada, were chosen for analysis.
3. Heuristic Evaluation: A basic level heuristic evaluation was conducted to identify usability issues in the selected apps.
4. User Testing: Participants from the computer science department, including animal lovers and shelter volunteers, were recruited to test the apps and provide feedback.
5. Analysis of Results: After the heuristic evaluation and user testing, results were compiled and analyzed to identify common usability issues and areas for improvement. The results from Irish apps were compared with international apps to spot differences in usability and design trends.

Quantitative Research

We conducted an online survey with about 24 user responses, to gather information about the animal shelter experience and pet adoption habits and preferences of students and faculty in the Computer Science department. Following were the findings from the survey.

1. The percentage of participants who have adopted pets from shelters was 32% among which 40% of users were satisfied with their experience and the rest gave neutral responses.
2. Of the group that has not adopted pets from shelters, 82% of participants were not ready to adopt, while 27% of participants had special requirements. Other reasons given by a few participants were related to concerns with pet care costs, landlord restrictions, the health status of the breed, and the preference to adopt directly from the streets.
3. Only 7 participants have been encountered by an animal shelter in their past experience.
4. Participants ranked the attitude of staff and volunteers at the pet shelter as the most important aspect of their experience. Overall hygiene and seamless communication followed right after.
5. About 40% of the participants donate between 1 to 4 times a year either in cash or kind to the animal shelters.
6. 82% of the participants enjoy volunteering with the animal shelters.

Qualitative Research

A structured qualitative interview was conducted with a representative from an animal shelter. It focused on gaining in-depth understanding of shelter operations, adoption processes, volunteer engagement, and the need for technological tools like mobile apps. The questions were specific and directed, covering various aspects of shelter management and challenges. This type of interview is valuable for gathering detailed, subjective information from a knowledgeable source in the field.
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Key findings of the interview with a shelter representative  include:

1. Adoption Process: The shelter managed 20 adoptions from January to March, highlighting a lengthy and selective process focused on ensuring animal welfare.
2. Shelter Needs: Essential requirements for operation include adequate facilities, medical care, and dedicated staff. The necessity of donations, both monetary and in-kind, was emphasized.
3. Public Engagement: Engagement primarily occurs through the shelter's website and phone calls, indicating potential for enhanced digital interaction.
4. App Utility: The absence of a dedicated mobile app for the shelter and a lack of awareness of such apps in other shelters suggest a gap in digital resources.
5. Collaboration Opportunities: The openness to sharing an app platform with other shelters reflects a collaborative spirit aimed at maximizing animal adoption and welfare.
6. Adoption Awareness: The interviewee stressed the importance of adoption, encouraging public participation either through adoption or other forms of support.
   
7. Volunteer and Donation Dynamics: Processes for volunteering and donation are straightforward, but the need for more support is evident.
   

Brainstorming Ideas

User Stories

1. As a potential adopter, I want to be able to search and filter for animals as per my preferences so that I can find a perfect pet that fits my lifestyle.
2. As a future pet owner, I want to be able to view photos and videos of pets available for adoption so that I can get a better sense and understanding of each animal’s personality and temperament.
3. As a volunteer I want to be able to sign up for upcoming volunteering opportunities so that I can contribute to the care of animals in need.
4. As an animal enthusiast, I want to have access to contact information of the animal shelter so that I can/call visit the shelter to report any animal related emergency.
5. As a donor, I want to be able to make a secure online donation to the shelter so that I can support the important work they do in caring for animals in need.

Prototyping