EcoROC
Fostering engagement and accurate representation of Rochester's biodiversity
(Client)
Fall Semester 2023
(Year)
2023
(Services)
UX/UI, Branding, Responsive Design
Immersive
Exploration
Integrating cutting-edge identification tools with a collaborative community platform, fostering engagement and accurate representation of Rochester's biodiversity.
EcoRoc is an innovative iPhone app and Apple Watch widget designed to deepen users' connection with the unique biodiversity of Rochester, NY. By integrating advanced image recognition and AI-powered identification tools, EcoRoc enables users to quickly and accurately identify local plant and animal species, making ecological exploration accessible to everyone. The app's collaborative community platform encourages users to share their findings, contribute to a growing database of local species, and engage in discussions with fellow nature enthusiasts.
EcoRoc also features real-time data and insights on Rochester’s ecology, allowing users to track seasonal patterns, discover lesser-known species, and even contribute to citizen science efforts. The Apple Watch widget offers seamless, on-the-go identification and updates, empowering users to interact with nature during hikes, walks, or daily outdoor activities. By blending technology, education, and community, EcoRoc not only facilitates accurate ecological identification but also fosters a deeper appreciation and responsibility for preserving the rich natural environment of Rochester.
Research
Comparative Analysis
Sketches
Wire Frames
Final Designs
Take Aways
ecoROC is a purpose-driven mobile app and smartwatch widget designed to inspire Rochester residents to explore, identify, and share their local biodiversity. Rooted in a genuine passion for ecology and community engagement, this project reimagines how intuitive technology can deepen environmental awareness and encourage citizen science.
By analyzing successful platforms like Instagram and Google Lens, ecoROC adopts proven design patterns — from visual storytelling and simple navigation to advanced image recognition and real-time feedback. These insights shaped an experience that feels approachable yet unique, combining social interaction, gamification, and educational content to make species identification accessible and rewarding for users of all levels.
Key features like badges, species pins, and personalized discovery journeys turn local outdoor adventures into engaging, shareable experiences. The addition of a smartwatch widget keeps the experience lightweight and non-intrusive, bridging digital tools and the natural world seamlessly.
Ultimately, ecoROC demonstrates how thoughtful research, iterative design, and personal motivation can come together to address real community needs — transforming everyday nature walks into opportunities for learning, connection, and collective ecological stewardship.
EcoROC
Fostering engagement and accurate representation of Rochester's biodiversity
(Client)
Fall Semester 2023
(Year)
2023
(Services)
UX/UI, Branding, Responsive Design
Immersive
Exploration
Integrating cutting-edge identification tools with a collaborative community platform, fostering engagement and accurate representation of Rochester's biodiversity.
EcoRoc is an innovative iPhone app and Apple Watch widget designed to deepen users' connection with the unique biodiversity of Rochester, NY. By integrating advanced image recognition and AI-powered identification tools, EcoRoc enables users to quickly and accurately identify local plant and animal species, making ecological exploration accessible to everyone. The app's collaborative community platform encourages users to share their findings, contribute to a growing database of local species, and engage in discussions with fellow nature enthusiasts.
EcoRoc also features real-time data and insights on Rochester’s ecology, allowing users to track seasonal patterns, discover lesser-known species, and even contribute to citizen science efforts. The Apple Watch widget offers seamless, on-the-go identification and updates, empowering users to interact with nature during hikes, walks, or daily outdoor activities. By blending technology, education, and community, EcoRoc not only facilitates accurate ecological identification but also fosters a deeper appreciation and responsibility for preserving the rich natural environment of Rochester.
Research
Comparative Analysis
Sketches
Wire Frames
Final Designs
Take Aways
ecoROC is a purpose-driven mobile app and smartwatch widget designed to inspire Rochester residents to explore, identify, and share their local biodiversity. Rooted in a genuine passion for ecology and community engagement, this project reimagines how intuitive technology can deepen environmental awareness and encourage citizen science.
By analyzing successful platforms like Instagram and Google Lens, ecoROC adopts proven design patterns — from visual storytelling and simple navigation to advanced image recognition and real-time feedback. These insights shaped an experience that feels approachable yet unique, combining social interaction, gamification, and educational content to make species identification accessible and rewarding for users of all levels.
Key features like badges, species pins, and personalized discovery journeys turn local outdoor adventures into engaging, shareable experiences. The addition of a smartwatch widget keeps the experience lightweight and non-intrusive, bridging digital tools and the natural world seamlessly.
Ultimately, ecoROC demonstrates how thoughtful research, iterative design, and personal motivation can come together to address real community needs — transforming everyday nature walks into opportunities for learning, connection, and collective ecological stewardship.
EcoROC
Fostering engagement and accurate representation of Rochester's biodiversity
(Client)
Fall Semester 2023
(Year)
2023
(Services)
UX/UI, Branding, Responsive Design
Immersive
Exploration
Integrating cutting-edge identification tools with a collaborative community platform, fostering engagement and accurate representation of Rochester's biodiversity.
EcoRoc is an innovative iPhone app and Apple Watch widget designed to deepen users' connection with the unique biodiversity of Rochester, NY. By integrating advanced image recognition and AI-powered identification tools, EcoRoc enables users to quickly and accurately identify local plant and animal species, making ecological exploration accessible to everyone. The app's collaborative community platform encourages users to share their findings, contribute to a growing database of local species, and engage in discussions with fellow nature enthusiasts.
EcoRoc also features real-time data and insights on Rochester’s ecology, allowing users to track seasonal patterns, discover lesser-known species, and even contribute to citizen science efforts. The Apple Watch widget offers seamless, on-the-go identification and updates, empowering users to interact with nature during hikes, walks, or daily outdoor activities. By blending technology, education, and community, EcoRoc not only facilitates accurate ecological identification but also fosters a deeper appreciation and responsibility for preserving the rich natural environment of Rochester.
Research
Comparative Analysis
Sketches
Wire Frames
Final Designs
Take Aways
ecoROC is a purpose-driven mobile app and smartwatch widget designed to inspire Rochester residents to explore, identify, and share their local biodiversity. Rooted in a genuine passion for ecology and community engagement, this project reimagines how intuitive technology can deepen environmental awareness and encourage citizen science.
By analyzing successful platforms like Instagram and Google Lens, ecoROC adopts proven design patterns — from visual storytelling and simple navigation to advanced image recognition and real-time feedback. These insights shaped an experience that feels approachable yet unique, combining social interaction, gamification, and educational content to make species identification accessible and rewarding for users of all levels.
Key features like badges, species pins, and personalized discovery journeys turn local outdoor adventures into engaging, shareable experiences. The addition of a smartwatch widget keeps the experience lightweight and non-intrusive, bridging digital tools and the natural world seamlessly.
Ultimately, ecoROC demonstrates how thoughtful research, iterative design, and personal motivation can come together to address real community needs — transforming everyday nature walks into opportunities for learning, connection, and collective ecological stewardship.