Project Overview
Project Description
Designing a mobile platform for scuba divers to find the perfect partner to dive in the USA.
The Problem
Divers struggle to find compatible partners, verify experience levels, and reliably plan excursions, which increases safety risks and coordination challenges.
The Product
BUDDIES is a dedicated scuba buddy finder platform in the USA, integrating verified registry data with robust trust networks and scheduling systems.
The Goal
To streamline underwater collaboration, maximize dive safety, and empower communities to effortlessly build trusted, long-term diving relationships.
My Role
UX/UI Product Designer.
Time Period
3 days.
Work flow
User Persona: Jordan
Location
Key Largo, Florida
Diver Profile
Recreational / Advanced Open Water
Bio
Jordan is an avid weekend diver based in the diving capital of the Florida Keys. He values safety, strict scheduling, and highly reliable underwater buddies to share deep reef excursions.
Pain Points
- Unverified Experience Levels: Tired of pairing with "certified" divers who lack the core buoyancy control and air management skills for deep drift dives.
- Unreliable Schedules: Frustrated by last-minute cancellations that ruin pre-booked charter boat slots.
- Fragmented Communities: Struggles to maintain a consistent log of trusted partners outside of disorganized social groups.
Wireframe Sketches
Phase I: Discover
Design Features
- Interactive map background
- Search bar
- Expandable bottom drawer shows the list of clickable diver cards with key information
- Quick filters for easy search
Diver Profile Screens
Experience
Certifications
Certifications
Certifications
Certifications
Certifications
Reviews
Certifications
Reviews
Phase II: Connect
Buddy Connection
Buddy Connection
Buddy Connection
Buddy List
Buddy Connection
Buddy Connection
Buddy Chat
Buddy Connection
Buddy Chat
Phase III: Plan
Design Features
- User profile shows occupied and available time slots, as well as preferred dive sites.
- Option to set visibility to buddies
Got an Invitation
- This screen shows the inviter, dive details and a message.
- 3 CTA options: Accept / Decline / Send a message
View Upcoming Dives
- This screen displays all the confirmed dives with the buddies.
- User can message the buddy to modify plans.
Phase IV: Post Dive
Design Features
- Rate your buddy in 3 key categories.
- Post reviews.
- Upload photos and videos.
Phase V: Plan Next Dive
Design Features
- Destination and date suggestions
- Buddy availability
- CTA to invite