Quote:
Originally Posted by bcrdukes
I'm just doing some requirements gathering and building product journeys. I'm curious - What if you are good looking but you have a massive personality defect? Would that not be a good use case for the app? 
I'm working on some mockups and wireframes. Will share sometime this weekend.
Disclaimer: I am not a techbro. |
Project Title
Lowered Expectations (working title)
Project Purpose
Develop an inclusive, compatibility-first dating app designed for people who feel underserved by traditional appearance-driven dating platforms. The app will emphasize personality, values, humor, shared interests, and authentic connection over narrow physical attractiveness standards.
Background / Problem Statement
Most dating apps rely heavily on photo-first, swipe-based interaction models that reinforce conventional beauty norms and encourage superficial decision-making. As a result, many users feel overlooked, judged, or discouraged. This project aims to create a platform where people can connect in a more respectful and meaningful way, without being defined primarily by appearance.
Project Objective
Design, build, and launch a minimum viable product (MVP) for a dating app that:
Prioritizes compatibility over looks
Creates a more welcoming and less judgmental user experience
Supports authentic self-expression
Includes strong trust, safety, and moderation features
Validates market demand through pilot launch and user feedback
Scope
In Scope
Market and user research
Brand positioning and MVP strategy
Profile creation focused on personality, lifestyle, and values
Compatibility-based matching
Messaging and conversation prompts
Safety features including block, report, and moderation tools
MVP build, testing, and beta launch
Out of Scope
Video chat
Livestreaming
Advanced AI coaching features
Large-scale international rollout
Full premium subscription ecosystem at launch
Key Deliverables
One MVP dating application
User research summary and personas
Product requirements and feature definition
UX/UI wireframes and prototype
Moderation and community guidelines
Beta launch plan and KPI framework
Success Measures
The project will be considered successful if the MVP:
Launches on time and within budget
Achieves strong onboarding and profile completion rates
Generates meaningful user engagement and match-to-conversation activity
Maintains a positive user satisfaction score
Demonstrates that users feel less judged and more comfortable being authentic
Maintains low rates of harassment through effective moderation controls
Key Risks
The name or concept may be perceived as mocking or stigmatizing
Users may hesitate to join due to fear of judgment
Harassment or trolling may target vulnerable users
Niche positioning may make early growth slower
User behavior may remain appearance-focused despite the product design
Risk Mitigation
Position the brand around inclusivity and authenticity
Use respectful, non-shaming language throughout the experience
Build strong trust and safety tools from day one
Emphasize profile prompts and compatibility signals over photos
Conduct pilot testing to refine messaging, design, and onboarding
Stakeholders
Project Sponsor
Project Manager
Product Manager
UX/UI Design Team
Engineering Team
Trust & Safety / Moderation Lead
Legal / Privacy Support
Pilot Users / Beta Testers
Timeline
Discovery & Research: Weeks 1–4
Design & Prototyping: Weeks 5–8
Development: Weeks 9–16
Testing & QA: Weeks 17–19
Beta Launch: Weeks 20–22
Evaluation & Next Steps: Weeks 23–24
Guiding Principles
Respect and dignity for all users
Compatibility over appearance
Authenticity over performance
Safety by design
Inclusive and accessible experience
Humor without cruelty
Approval
Sponsor: ____________________
Project Manager: ____________________
Date: ____________________