The Quest:

End -to-End Application

Case Study 1 ~ 6 min read

The Problem

Relocating to a new place, especially abroad, is a high-stakes puzzle. Disjointed logistics, cultural barriers, and limited resources leave individuals navigating in the dark.

The process

User research and synthesis, ideation, prototyping, interaction, usability testing

My Role

UX/UI designer

Tools

Figma

Duration

4 Weeks

The Solution

Quest is an adventure-planning app that turns the overwhelming process of exploring a new city, especially when relocating or traveling abroad, into a smooth and personalized experience. By letting users select their preferred date, location, and type of adventure, and combining that with curated local activities, Quest ensures every trip is time- and place-perfect.

Date, Location & Adventure Selection

Smart filters by time, place, style

Categories + conflict-free itinerary

Solo Adventure Group

Self-guided trips with offline maps

Live updates and cultural highlights

Cultural Immersion Calendar

Curated local events with filters

Add to itinerary + cultural tips

Jump to Prototype

01 Research

Millions on the Move: Relocating is a Top Stressor in Life

Hour-long interviews were conducted with 5 participants between the ages of 22–65 who had recently relocated. Participants included individuals who had moved for work opportunities, lifestyle changes, education, or personal reasons, both domestically and internationally. The aim was to uncover their motivations, needs, goals, and pain points when adjusting to a new location.

From these conversations, I identified patterns in their experiences—ranging from logistical hurdles to cultural adaptation—and grouped my findings into the following categories

Needs:

efficient logistics, reliable info, transition support, cultural integration

Goals:

simplify moving; reduce stress; connect; navigate confidently

Pain Points:

overwhelming logistics; no real-time support; hard local info; few social-adapt tools

Competitive Research Summary

Strengths
Local expertise, strong communities, diverse networks, and quality storytelling.

Weaknesses
High costs, niche appeal, crowded markets, and limited interaction.

Opportunities
Virtual/immersive tours, cultural integrations, city experiences, and partnerships.

Threats
Cheaper/free apps, reliance on niche users, crowded platforms, and Google/Map competition.

Insight
Opportunity for a platform that offers authentic, affordable, and community-driven exploration.

Motivations:

exploring new surroundings; adapting; growth; community

The Adventurer,

The Connector,

The Cultural Explorer

Tammy

24, Single, English Teacher, South Korea — A curious explorer who thrives on new experiences, values independence, and embraces cultural discovery.

The Adventurer has relocated abroad to embrace new cultures and experiences.
The Connector seeks emotional support to maintain close ties with family and friends.
The Cultural Explorer is navigating language barriers and adapting to a new environment.

Bio:

Adventurous professional pursuing growth abroad while balancing logistics and cultural adjustment.

Goals:

Stay connected with loved ones, adapt smoothly, and enjoy new experiences.

Pains:

Struggles with distance from family, stress of organizing an international move, and cultural/language barriers.

Habits:

Uses social apps to stay in touch, relies on Google Maps for navigation, books stays through Airbnb, and explores local culture through day trips.

Most Used Apps:

Instagram, WhatsApp, Google Maps, Airbnb

My research led me to wonder….

How might we help young professionals feel a sense of belonging in their new community while maintaining their independence?

Project Goals….

User flow

04 design

Low Fi

These low-fi sketches outline the core structure of a community-driven platform that blends exploration, events, and social engagement.

Key Features:

Home & Map Views: Highlight global exploration with visual maps and quick content cards.
Community & Events: Social feed, event listings, and ways to connect or contribute.
Gamification: Leaderboard and progress visuals to encourage participation.

Mid Fi

UI Style Template

These low-fi sketches outline the core structure of a community-driven platform that blends exploration, events, and social engagement.

Key Features:

Home & Map Views: Highlight global exploration with visual maps and quick content cards.
Community & Events: Social feed, event listings, and ways to connect or contribute.
Gamification: Leaderboard and progress visuals to encourage participation.