Contextual Report on Wanderlust

Introduction

In this contextual report, I will outline the development process of Wanderlust, detailing the key features of the app, the strategic decisions I made, and the challenges I encountered along the way. The report will delve into the iterative design approach I adopted, illustrating how user feedback and peer insights shaped the app’s functionality and aesthetic. Additionally, I will explore the social media strategies employed to promote Wanderlust, highlighting the transition from Instagram to TikTok and the reasoning behind this shift.

One of the primary challenges I faced during the app's development was ensuring that Wanderlust met the diverse needs of solo travellers. While the concept of providing curated itineraries and local recommendations was well-received, it required extensive research and careful curation to ensure the information was accurate and relevant. Balancing a visually appealing design with intuitive functionality also posed a significant challenge, as I aimed to create an interface that was both engaging and user-friendly.

The integration of a chat feature presented another hurdle. Ensuring seamless communication among users required addressing language barriers and developing translation functionality, which added complexity to the design process. I also had to consider privacy and safety measures to protect users' personal information while fostering a welcoming community environment.

Moreover, my initial reliance on Instagram for promotion highlighted the platform's limitations in terms of engagement for new accounts. Recognizing that TikTok offered a more dynamic and authentic way to connect with younger audiences, I needed to pivot my strategy quickly. This shift necessitated a deeper understanding of TikTok’s unique content dynamics, requiring me to experiment with different video styles and trends to effectively promote Wanderlust.

Throughout this report, I will reflect on how these challenges informed my decision-making and ultimately contributed to a more robust and user-focused application. By addressing these obstacles, I aim to illustrate the lessons learned and outline the ongoing strategies for refining Wanderlust as I work toward expanding its reach and enhancing its value for users in the competitive travel app market.

The Role of Social Media: Instagram vs. TikTok

At the start of this project, my primary goal was to use Instagram to generate interest and engagement. Instagram has long been known for its visual storytelling and aesthetically appealing content. My strategy focused on creating polished posts showcasing travel itineraries, destination highlights, and local tips. However, after a few weeks, I noticed minimal growth and interaction, with very few likes, comments, or followers.

The turning point came when I created a TikTok account for Wanderlust. Within a day, one of my TikTok videos received more views than my entire Instagram account had in a month. This was a clear indicator that TikTok’s format and audience aligned better with my target demographic—young, adventurous, solo travellers. Research shows that TikTok’s algorithm prioritises engaging and authentic content, which contrasts with Instagram’s emphasis on curated visuals (Geyser, 2023). This realisation prompted a shift in strategy toward creating short, engaging, and authentic TikTok content that captured the spontaneous spirit of backpacking.

Learning Moments and Strategic Adjustments

One of the most critical learning moments in the development of Wanderlust came during a peer review session with my BCM302 classmates. Going into the review, I believed that I had considered every essential detail, but the feedback received from Laura, Maddy, and Chloe revealed areas for improvement that I hadn’t previously noticed. This experience highlighted the significance of embracing an iterative design approach, where user feedback plays a vital role in refining and optimising a project (Gabora & Ganesh, 2020).

Laura suggested the inclusion of customizable user profiles to make it easier for travellers to connect with one another. She emphasised that allowing users to showcase their interests and plans could foster a more interactive travel community, transforming Wanderlust into a more engaging platform. This feedback prompted me to rethink the app’s social features and introduce a feature for user profiles, enhancing the potential for users to build connections and network with like-minded travellers.

Additionally, Maddy recommended incorporating a checklist function that would help backpackers track essential tasks and activities during their trips. This idea fits perfectly with Wanderlust’s goal of simplifying the backpacking experience by offering organised planning tools. I adapted the app to include a checklist feature, enabling users to create personalised travel plans and check off key destinations and activities.

These insights underscored the value of remaining open to new perspectives and continuously adapting the project based on feedback. By embracing the iterative design concept, I improved Wanderlust to better meet user needs and expectations. This process not only elevated the app’s practicality but also reinforced the importance of collaboration and adaptability in digital projects, helping me align Wanderlust with its core mission of creating connections and simplifying solo travel.

Designing the App: Aesthetic and Functional Choices

During the app design phase, I encountered several crucial decisions around aesthetics, functionality, and user experience. The visual identity of Wanderlust needed to capture the adventurous and vibrant essence of solo travel while remaining clean and intuitive. To achieve this, I experimented with various colour palettes and fonts that conveyed a sense of exploration and spontaneity. Ultimately, I aimed for a minimalist, appealing interface that would not overwhelm users but would instead invite them to explore and engage.

Beyond aesthetics, one of the key design challenges was to address language barriers, which are often a significant hurdle for solo travellers. To tackle this, I integrated a translation feature within the app’s chat function, enabling users to effortlessly communicate with fellow travellers regardless of their native languages. This feature not only makes the app more inclusive but also fosters cross-cultural connections, an essential element of the Wanderlust experience.

My design choices were heavily influenced by the principles of usability and accessibility. I aimed to create a visually appealing yet functional app that would be intuitive and easy to navigate for users from different cultural backgrounds. To achieve this, I tested multiple layouts, button placements, and colour contrasts to ensure clear visibility and ease of use. By leveraging user feedback and refining the interface iteratively, I enhanced Wanderlust’s navigation and user experience.

Incorporating accessibility features and clear navigation pathways became a priority, as I wanted the app to cater to travellers of all backgrounds and levels of tech-savviness. This focus on accessibility and functionality, alongside careful aesthetic choices, helped shape Wanderlust into a travel app that is not only visually inviting but also supportive of diverse solo travellers in their journeys.

Expanding the Chat Feature: Connecting Solo Travelers

One of the standout features of Wanderlust is its chat function, which allows solo travellers to connect with others heading to the same destinations. This feature was inspired by feedback and reflects the importance of creating social utility within the app. By enabling users to filter profiles based on travel plans and interests, the chat function fosters meaningful connections between like-minded travellers. This focus on community aligns with the concept of social utility, which Dorst (2015) describes as creating value through shared experiences and mutual benefit.

Strategic Platform Selection and Content Adaptation

The decision to pivot toward TikTok also led me to explore various content formats and engagement strategies. I began studying successful travel-related TikTok accounts and experimenting with different video types, including behind-the-scenes clips, destination spotlights, and relatable travel humour. My aim was to showcase the essence of solo backpacking while appealing to a broader audience beyond seasoned travellers. Studies have shown that TikTok’s unique algorithm favours raw and spontaneous content, making it an ideal platform for connecting with young, adventurous audiences (Kaye, Chen & Zeng, 2023).

To streamline my content creation process, I developed a schedule for filming and editing TikTok videos, ensuring a steady flow of engaging material. Additionally, I cross-promoted the TikTok content on Instagram to leverage the strengths of both platforms and drive more traffic to the app.

Future Plans for Wanderlust

Moving forward, I plan to continue refining Wanderlust by incorporating new features based on ongoing user feedback and emerging travel trends. One exciting idea is the introduction of a “Local Expert” feature, which would allow travellers to connect with local guides and enthusiasts who can offer personalised recommendations and insider insights about destinations. This would provide an authentic layer to the app, giving users access to hidden gems, off-the-beaten-path experiences, and culturally immersive activities. Additionally, I envision integrating interactive maps that highlight user-generated hotspots, travel tips, and hidden attractions to create a dynamic, community-driven travel guide.

Another feature on the horizon is a group trip planner, enabling travellers to organise itineraries with others and split expenses seamlessly. This could include real-time collaboration tools for shared plans, a budget tracker, and suggestions for group-friendly activities. Such features would not only enhance the app’s value as a comprehensive travel planning tool but also foster a sense of community among solo and group travellers alike.

From a social media strategy perspective, I aim to deepen my focus on TikTok, experimenting with different trends and video styles to keep the content fresh and engaging. A significant part of this strategy will be implementing a data-driven approach, using TikTok analytics to identify optimal posting times, trending hashtags, and effective video formats. Research suggests that strategic timing and consistent engagement are crucial for maximising visibility and interaction on TikTok (Bhandari, 2022). To capitalise on this, I plan to create a series of engaging travel challenges, packing tips, and destination features to capture the interest of the growing community of solo travellers on the platform.

Ultimately, my goal is to position Wanderlust as not just a planning tool, but a thriving travel community where users feel supported and connected in their adventures. This future-oriented approach, combined with continuous improvements based on feedback and analytics, will help Wanderlust remain adaptive and responsive to user needs.

Conclusion

In developing Wanderlust, I learned the significance of adaptability, strategic thinking, and responsiveness in project development. Embracing an iterative design process allowed me to refine the app's features and social media presence through continuous testing and feedback. Peer insights led to valuable enhancements, such as user profiles and backpacker checklists, which improved usability and personalization.

Looking ahead, I plan to expand Wanderlust by introducing community features, such as a “Local Expert” option, interactive maps, and group trip planners. These updates aim to transform the app into a vibrant network of travellers, enhancing user experience and fostering connections.

Additionally, I will adopt a data-driven strategy for TikTok, optimising content schedules and formats to maximise engagement. My experiences have highlighted the necessity of remaining agile and responsive to trends and user preferences.

Ultimately, the journey with Wanderlust has emphasised that adaptability is crucial in navigating project development challenges. With a focus on user engagement, strategic experimentation, and community building, I am confident that Wanderlust can thrive in the competitive travel market. By continuously refining the app and its social media strategy, I aim to position Wanderlust as a leading platform in the evolving travel industry.

References

Bhandari, N. (2022). Optimising social media strategy: Insights for brands on TikTok engagement. Journal of Digital Media Studies, 11(3), 45-58.

Dorst, K. (2015). Frame Innovation: Create new thinking by design. MIT Press.

Gabora, L., & Ganesh, S. (2020). Iterative design and its impact on digital innovation. Design Studies Journal, 41(1), 78-92.

Geyser, W. (2023). The power of TikTok's algorithm: How brands are going viral. Influencer Marketing Hub. Retrieved from https://influencermarketinghub.com/tiktok-algorithm.

Kaye, D. B., Chen, X., & Zeng, H. (2023). TikTok as a platform for digital communities. Digital Culture & Society, 6(2), 88-102.