Cliq

In the early days of social media, platforms like MySpace promised to bridge physical distances and foster meaningful connections between people, irrespective of geographical boundaries. However, as corporate interests infiltrated the social media landscape, platforms like Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and TikTok began prioritizing user retention over genuine human connection. Features such as infinite scrolling, social rewards, and algorithmic feeds kept users engaged, often at the expense of their well-being.

As a result, instead of fostering genuine connection and curiosity, social media platforms have contributed to increased division, misinformation, isolation, feelings of inadequacy, and FOMO. This project explores the development of Cliq, a social networking app that aims to challenge the conventional approach by integrating human-centric design principles and ethical engagement tactics. The primary research question investigates how to transform a casino-like environment that preys on users into an ethical space prioritizing well-being while remaining engaging for users and viable for platform owners.

Cliq's approach utilizes location-based group chats to facilitate real-time, peer- to-peer conversations that resonate with users' cultural, linguistic, and personal interests. Aiming to foster interaction and engagement where it matters most - the place people call home. By digitizing the concept of town parks, places where people can engage with their local peers, Cliq reintroduces those communal spaces into urban and digital environments, promoting genuine connections within the app that can be easily translated into real- world interactions.