This project provided valuable insights into user behavior, design decision-making, and the importance of accessibility in creating meaningful experiences. Here are the main lessons and highlights I gained throughout the process:

• Clear Need for Sensory Support

Through my solo research and analysis, I discovered that overstimulation is one of the main barriers to enjoying a theme park. Guests struggle to anticipate triggers like noise, motion, or crowds. This validated the need for real-time sensory alerts, clear ride information, and easily accessible quiet spaces built directly into the app.

• Planning + Flexibility are Equally Important

Working independently helped me see how important it is for users to plan their day ahead but also adapt quickly. Parents and teens want to choose rides, set expectations, and map quiet zones, but also need a way to shift plans when sensory fatigue sets in. This led to the “Plan My Day” feature combined with quick, one-tap re-routing and alert options.

• Clear Navigation Reduces Overwhelm

Because this was a solo project, I focused on making navigation as clear and simple as possible. Large blocks of text and buried menus can create confusion in high-stimulation environments, so I prioritized simple labels, easy-to-access features, and an intuitive map layout for key tools and quiet spaces.

• Calming Tools Build Confidence and Independence

One of the strongest insights from my independent research was how often neurodiverse guests rely on companions for self-regulation. A built-in toolkit (breathing guides, calming visuals, “I need a break” button) empowers users to self-manage before anxiety escalates, increasing independence and reducing stress for families.