Foodlink(2024)

Foodlink: Grocery Management App Design for International Students at Dormitories

< Foodlink > is an individual app design project developed from a group research study on the challenges international students face with Korean food in dormitories. The research followed an ethnographic approach using shadowing, personal inventory, and interviews. It explored difficulties in navigating the Korean grocery shopping system, adapting to different eating habits, and managing food storage and cooking under dormitory restrictions. Findings were organized into an affinity diagram, leading to key insights and design ideas.

The app design focuses on three main features:

Distinguishing K-Food by Color: Since international students with limited Korean proficiency often rely on colors to identify food, this feature allows users to search for Korean food by its representative color. A detailed flavor comparison with foreign dishes helps them find options that suit their tastes.

Food Sharing System: To reduce food waste, the app introduces a structured sharing system using the communal dormitory refrigerator. While direct exchanges are possible, the “Share Food” tab enables passive sharing through posts and comments, allowing users to leave and pick up designated food items anonymously.

Community for Cooking and Food Experiences: The “Share Recipe” tab helps international students overcome cooking challenges by providing a space to share simple recipes, cooking tips, and food experiences, making it easier to adapt to Korean cuisine.