The
Challenge
Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy (BOPC) aimed to enhance the experience of park visitors with a new mobile app. However, their initial geo-based app, developed by a low-cost agency, did not meet their expectations or needs. The challenge was to design and develop a new, functional, and user-friendly app that integrated seamlessly with BOPC’s existing WordPress website and offered innovative features like Augmented Reality (AR).
Our
Approach
Newbird focused on blending design, technology, and user experience to create a mobile app that aligned with BOPC’s brand. Our approach included seamless WordPress integration, engaging AR features, and valuable user insights, all aimed at enhancing visitor interaction with the park’s history.
App
Design
Our main task was on creating a visually appealing and functional app that aligned with BOPC’s brand, reflecting the history and beauty of the Buffalo Olmsted Park System. Designed as an extension of the parks, the app provides easy access to park events, local services, and includes an, intuitive interface for a seamless user experience. Additionally, we incorporated an in-app donation form to simplify contributions to BOPC’s mission.
Augmented
Reality (AR)
Experience
A core feature of the new app was the introduction of “A Window to the Past,” a pair of Augmented Reality (AR) experiences. These AR features took park visitors on a historical journey, allowing them to view two areas of the Olmsted parks as they appeared in different eras. Key aspects of the AR development are explained below.
3D Artwork
Two unique AR scenes were designed, featuring original 3D artwork to bring the historical moments to life, enhancing the visitors’ understanding of the park’s transformation over time.
Immersive Experience
The AR functionality seamlessly blended technology with history, allowing users to interact with both the digital and physical worlds, providing a truly immersive experience.
Custom Signage Design
We worked closely with park experts to curate and create on-brand, informative AR signage that aligned with the park’s heritage.
iOS & Android
Development
Newbird developed the app from the ground up, ensuring it integrated smoothly with BOPC’s existing WordPress site. This included building a robust backend dashboard for easy administrative control and a system to track user activity and behavior.
We utilized cutting-edge technologies to ensure the app’s smooth functionality across both iOS and Android platforms. Rigorous testing and optimization were carried out to guarantee high performance, reliability, and a consistent experience for all users, no matter the device.
Lastly, we also integrated user-data analytics. This provided powerful insights, allowing BOPC to measure user engagement and app performance.
App
Launch
Following extensive development and testing, the app was successfully launched and received positive feedback. It quickly garnered attention in local media for its innovative approach and the impactful user experiences it provided. The launch also positioned the app for long-term success, with BOPC now able to manage the app with confidence.
The
Benefits
Partnering with Newbird, BOPC transformed their vision into an app that enhanced user engagement through a fresh design, AR experiences, and seamless system integration. The app’s data-driven insights and in-app donation feature further strengthened connections with park visitors and BOPC supporters.