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

mediator

mediator

Private conglomerates with the resources and drive to innovate leisure experiences - are constantly seeking strategic expansion opportunities

Private conglomerates with the resources and drive to innovate leisure experiences - are constantly seeking strategic expansion opportunities

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..