Before app development, assess actual user demand. Websites might suffice, and an app may not be actively sought. Prioritize user experience – only develop if it significantly improves it.

• Identify visitor needs
  Governors Island attracts 1 million visitors a year, but official information is only available through this website. I ponder whether the government has considered investing in official apps before to enhance the overall travel experience. There may be many reasons for maintaining a website version, but it is difficult to know why. Additionally, governments often prioritize websites because they provide access to a wider range of users, regardless of their device or operating system. This approach is not only more cost-effective but also ensures wider coverage. Therefore, I conducted fieldwork and interviewed five visitors to assess whether potential users had a real need for the app.

• Existed solution
  During my research, I discovered Bloomberg Connects, a travel guide app that provides guidebooks for various attractions. The app introduced information about Governors Island during my research, presenting a challenge to the ongoing design process. Consequently, I chose to assess the app to determine if it truly delivers a user-friendly experience. However, using the app gave me the impression of navigating a manual version of the Governors Island website. Nonetheless, it compensates for certain shortcomings found in the website, particularly in addressing confusing information.