When it comes to designing apps and websites, the balance between form and functionality is often a topic of debate. But for me, the vision is clear —functionality takes precedence. This approach has been crucial in building my dog poop detection app, Paws Off Poop. Here’s why my design philosophy prioritizes simplicity, pragmatism, and yes, even a nod to the 90s aesthetic.

Prioritizing Functionality Over Form
For me, a smooth, intuitive user experience trumps fancy visuals every time. My priority is ensuring the app works seamlessly, especially since Paws Off Poop deals with an essential function—detecting dog poop in real-time. Whether users are scanning the ground with their camera or uploading images, they need a reliable, fast, and accurate solution. That’s why I’ve focused on performance and utility over decorative or sophisticated add-ons.

From a technical perspective, clean navigation, clear buttons, and a straightforward UI guide users quickly through tasks. No clutter, no unnecessary animations that might slow things down. After all, what’s the point of a beautiful app if it doesn’t work as expected?

Looking Like Something from the 90s Isn’t Bad
I won’t deny it: the 90s influence is intentional. Some might call it retro; I call it user-friendly. In the 90s, apps and websites had a utilitarian simplicity—straightforward menus, minimal distractions, and a strong focus on getting the job done. It might look “dated” to some, but there’s beauty in that simplicity.

There’s a certain nostalgia that comes with this aesthetic, and it resonates with users who appreciate an interface that doesn’t try to do too much. By borrowing from the 90s, Paws Off Poop has a design that feels familiar to older users while fun colors keep it approachable for newer generations. Besides, what’s old can be new again—90s design is making a comeback in modern apps for its clarity, boldness and unique aesthetic. In an ocean of a million sleek, beautiful apps, what better way to stand out than to embrace a concept that aligns to the spirit of your work?

Dog Poop Detection is Not Yucky
Let’s be real: dog poop is a reality, whether you’re a dog owner or simply living in a city. My app addresses this head-on. Detecting poop isn’t “gross”—it’s practical. We’re talking about keeping public spaces clean, keeping pets healthy, and making life just a little easier.

For dog owners, cleaning up is part of the routine, and for city dwellers, it’s an everyday sight. Paws Off Poop is built on the understanding that dealing with this task shouldn’t be stigmatized. The app’s clean, efficient design reflects this mindset. Dog poop detection isn’t yucky—it’s just another tool for navigating modern life with pets and urban environments.

Friendly Block Colors for Kids and Families
Finally, the design of both the app and website includes a fun, friendly color scheme of block colors—bright blues, greens, and yellows. The idea here is to make the platform accessible and appealing to kids and families who might use the app together. Bold, uncomplicated colors evoke a sense of playfulness while still being functional.

This is intentional. Dealing with dog poop doesn’t need to feel like a chore. The colors create an environment that feels lighthearted and approachable, especially for young users who may be helping their parents or learning about responsibility. If you’ve ever tried to explain cleaning up after a dog to a child, you’ll understand the importance of keeping the tone positive.

In conclusion, my design and UI philosophy for Paws Off Poop is centered around functionality with a sense of playful nostalgia. By embracing the practical aspects of dog poop detection, taking design cues from the 90s, and making the app visually appealing for all ages, I’ve created something that’s not just a tool—but an experience that feels simple, fun, and effective.

Full disclosure: This post was written with the help of Chat GPT4.0. I’ve got to say, it captured what I wanted to convey very effectively!