picPARK
a solution for the deserted parks of Lucknow
picPARK, is an app-based solution, conceptualized to address the problem of 427 acres of under-utilised public parks in Lucknow. It is based on a two-pronged approach: leasing public land to private picnic curators to boost park visitation and employment opportunities while simultaneously deterring the mass exodus of city-dwellers to nearby hill stations every weekend.
Assignment
This semester, our system design exercise tasked us with identifying a critical issue plaguing our city and devising a solution that not only eradicates the problem but also fosters social, cultural, and/or economic benefits.
Role
Product Conception
Brand Design & Strategy
Visual Mechandising
Duration
4 weeks
Problem at hand..
UNDERUTILIZATION OF
CITY-OWNED PARKS
OVERCROWDING IN NEARBY TOURIST DESTINATIONS
Design
A brief video, outline the problem and solution,
Vision
Transforming our city into a vibrant hub, where locals unwind through abundant local activities, easing pressure on nearby getaways.

public parks
resource
Government owned public parks - which contain underutilised areas that generate no revenue but still demand continuous maintenance

recreational
services

citizens
value
Individuals periodically seeking refreshing activities and experiences to rejuvenate themselves, tired from the daily grind.
Persona
Rishabh Bhatt
Age: 35
City: Lucknow
Family: Married, 2 Kids
Occupation: Software Engineer
Rishabh, a 35-year-old professional in a metropolitan city, frequently embarks on road trips with his family for recreation. The weekend getaways, his default means of leisure, offer a change of scenery, a breath of fresh air and valuable family time.
Goals
Diverse, family-friendly activities
Transform weekends into exciting events
Connect with families of similar interests, shared recreational experiences
Frustations
Safety concerns for family in the new city and back home
Emergency logistics for quick return during office crisis
Avoidance of night driving adds stress to travel plans
Stressed by planning effort, especially with 2 young children
Maya Bhuwani
Age: 27
City: Lucknow
Occupation: Student
Maya, a 27-year-old post-gradutate student, juggles intense academic days. Long weekends are scarse, prompting her to seek affordable and accessible city spaces for relaxation and design inspiration
Goals
Spaces to unwind between intense academic periods
Open spaces for rejuvenation and physical activities
Group-friendly, inspiring environments
Frustations
Expense, coordination and risk
Limited free time
Avoidance of night travel adds stress to travel plans
City constraints from guardians
Research, Survey and Insights
Methodology Used:
Personal Interviews
User Surveys
Behavioural Enquiry
The insights outline the percentage of sample (26 people) inclined towards specific aspect :-
I prefer doing an impulse trip. This results in touching base with only touristy stuff
I really enjoy picnic but they come with a lot of pre-preparation and special furniture requirements for a comfortable day
It's the feeling of being away. We usually don't do anything except eat and stroll
I have been to Lonavala so many times, yet it remain equally refreshing
Post-trip, overflow of picture and settling bills is tedious
Its more about the refreshing journey than destination itself
Site Analysis
Coming full circle
We conducted a brief site analysis to assess the utilization of public land for parks within the city limits, taking into account city's density. We focused on major parks situated in densely populated residential and/or commercial areas.
Additionally, we
examined footfall distribution within each park,
analyzing the percentage of the area accessed by the public, and
identifying points where visitors tend to disengage.
We seek to discern the preference and priorities of individuals visiting local parks compared to those opting for weekend excursions outside the city.
Location Map
Janeshwar Mishra Park
344 acres
Ramabai Ambedkar Park
4 acres
Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia Park
76 acres
Manyawar Kanshiram Ji Smarak Sthal
2.5 acres
Ambedkar Memorial Park
12 acres
Eco Garden Wild Rose Garden
2 acres
Aishbagh Ram Leela Ground
0.5 acres
Begum Hazrat Mahal Park
2.5 acres
approx.
500 acres

Requirement Gathering
We identifies recurring elements and patterns associated with excusion within various age groups and social circles. By understanding the nuances and commonalities, we intend to map a user journey that encapsulates the essence of rejuvenating outdoor experiences, seeking to integrate these elements within our city parks.
Making it feasible…
Next, we created a blueprint by categorizing requirements based on factors such as
Sponsorship Opportunities
One-time infrastructure investment
Expected duration of service
We also documented the running costs for different activities and mapped out potential returns.
Reaching the end user…

Introducing, picPARK app - your personalised picnic planner!
Choose your style, set the date and we'll prep the perfect spot.
Check out our app screens below!
Choose a park of your liking
Select your requirments ranging from wheelchair accessibility to barbecue grill
Have your concierge keep your place ready before you get there
Shop, eat and rent at various establishments like local craft shops, Decathalon, Comesums, etc.
Migitating a few frustrations..

Curating a few experiences..
