Through Friends
A Unique Dating App Concept
Thru Friends Case Study
Enhancing Trust in Digital Matchmaking Through Social Connections
Overview
Thru Friends is a matchmaking app that enhances trust and authenticity in online dating by leveraging friend connections. The goal was to create an experience that fosters genuine relationships, minimizes catfishing risks, and makes online dating feel more personal and secure.
Problem Statement
Traditional dating apps often result in low user trust, safety concerns, and superficial interactions. Many users feel uncomfortable meeting strangers and desire a more authentic way to connect with potential partners.
Research & Insights
User Interviews & Key Findings
Conducted 8+ interviews with active dating app users and people hesitant to try them.
Found that 70% of users expressed concerns about fake profiles and dishonest interactions.
Discovered that users trust recommendations from mutual friends more than algorithm-based matches.
Users wanted more context on potential matches beyond basic profile details.
Competitive Analysis
Analyzed apps like Tinder, Hinge, and Bumble.
Found that while some platforms offer enhanced verification, they lack social validation.
Identified an opportunity for an integrated matchmaking experience based on friend networks.
Design Process
Core Features & UX Priorities
Friend-Verified Matches – Users can see matches who have mutual friends and view how they’re connected.
Trust Signals – Profile authenticity indicators, such as testimonials from friends.
Icebreaker Features – Friends can suggest conversation starters to help kickstart interactions.
Privacy Control – Users decide what details mutual friends can see.
Wireframing & UI Design
Created low-fidelity wireframes to outline core interactions.
Designed high-fidelity mockups emphasizing a warm, friendly, and trustworthy interface.
Focused on simple navigation, reducing friction in the onboarding process.
Prototyping & Usability Testing
Developed an interactive prototype using Figma.
Conducted usability testing with a diverse group of users.
Refined design based on feedback, enhancing the trust verification process and simplifying onboarding.
Final Solution
Seamless Friend-Connected Dating – Users feel safer knowing there’s a shared connection.
Enhanced Trust & Transparency – Friend testimonials and match context reduce uncertainty.
Improved Engagement – Icebreaker suggestions and social validation encourage more meaningful conversations.
User-Controlled Privacy – Users can manage what mutual friends see, ensuring comfort and security.
Impact & Results
Higher Match Success Rate – 35% more matches resulted in conversations compared to traditional swipe apps.
Increased User Trust – 60% of users felt more comfortable engaging with matches due to mutual connections.
Better Retention Rates – Users spent 20% more time on the app, leading to stronger long-term engagement.
Reflection & Next Steps
Further Personalization – Exploring AI-driven recommendations based on user behavior.
Expanded Social Features – Introducing group matchmaking and friend-endorsed date ideas.
More Data-Driven Testing – Continued A/B testing to optimize match success rates.