Last updated: February 25, 2025
Preface
App download preview: https://apps.apple.com/fr/app/ywam-paris-je-taime-2025/id6480051197?l=en-GB
The Paris Je t'Aime app serves as the central communications hub for the annual summer event hosted by YWAM Paris Connect. The app was created with the assistance of a start-up company from Czech Republic.
My Approach
The app is built exclusively for Paris Je t'Aime event participants. The problem recognition began when YWAM Paris Connect required a central platform for uniting participants for a city-wide event. I recognized the need to search for existing solutions, since event apps weren't uncommon. YWAM Paris Connect wanted a custom made solution, or at the very least, a white-label option.My approach began with looking for something that would tick all the boxes and provide an aesthetic, clean design. After evaluating options and pricing, I chose a small team with a pre-built solution that offered special customization for our needs.
App Requirements
The annual event was a Christian training and evangelism outreach, requiring a centralized mode of communication amidst a decentralized event. High priority needs for the mobile app included a general and personal schedule, account creation, a messaging function, and push notifications. Other features fell secondary to these initial requirements, though later found to be extremely useful, such as the news feed and networking tab. The mobile app needed to work offline, since many participants were internationals and didn't always have access to internet (or mobile data). Finally, the event required the ability to set a limited capacity, in which participants were to 'sign up' for sessions on the app.
Identifying Unique Challenges
As the event hosted participants of all ages, the largest identified challenge was to create a mobile app that was user-friendly. This was particularly necessary for tech-averse participants. By reducing user error, or rather complexity, very few participants needed to contact the event coordinator's office.
The second unique challenge was the time constraint and customization requirements. As mentioned, the small start-up had an existing app that could be white-labelled for our event, but we still required more customization amidst the time pressure.
Resolving Complex Problems
To address the first challenge, I started with user testing from a select pool of individuals to understand how user-friendly the mobile app appeared to be. This also helped me create user stories and a service blueprint, by witnessing how users interacted with the mobile app. Based on these findings, a custom design was built to walk users through profile creation and the app's core functions. I discussed with the BD rep from the small event app company to re-work some of the features in the app to suit our users better. This involved key messaging and links on the dashboard, as well, small adjustments to the general information tab. Finally, we created instructional messaging when a user creates an account for the first time.
The second challenge of operating under a tight time constraint was looming over our shoulders. The event was 6 months away as we began our search for options. After selecting the company to help us build the app, I was required to liaison between YWAM Paris Connect and the company. My involvement was to ensure that the mobile app with all its customization would be finished in time for the event. Back and forth emails and calls led to clarity of timeline and customization requests. Fortunately, the mobile app was delivered in preparation for the event.
Meeting User Needs
Throughout the weeks of the event, over 1000 users were using the mobile app. The high priority needs expressed earlier on proved to be key, while secondary features, such as the social wall, was one of the most highly used parts of the mobile app. Participants shared suggestions for improvement that were quickly implemented. For example, some requested quick links on the home page to fillable forms, while others wanted an extra page on the general information tab. These on-the-fly implementations were possible because of prior research in finding a suitable app developer. Minor bugs became apparent to Android users, which were quickly fixed after I shared them with the mobile app company.
Taking the time to understand user needs through hypothesis and beta testing proved to be significant for the success of the event.
Detailed Pages and Features
Dashboard: The users personal agenda. This page allows users to add sections from the program to their personal calendar. It also shows key links and statistics recorded from the event.
Program: The general calendar. Showcasing all sessions, events, and details, participants can sign up and add it to their personal itinerary.
News: The news tab displayed all announcements. Push notifications would remain here.
Social Wall: A place for sharing stories and asking questions. This feature functioned similar to a public forum.
Networking: A list of public attendees. This tab provided the ability to friend request and message others.
General Information: A section on key event information. This held descriptive pages, PDFs, and links.
Conclusion
The Paris Je t'Aime event app received very positive feedback. Users expressed it's crucial importance for them, suggesting it's uniqueness for the specific type of event. Working alongside the small start-up company gave me a greater understanding for product development as I navigated through complex challenges of meeting user needs and time restraints.
