Snow+Rock Pathfinder Mobile App

Category Mobile Application Design
Client Snow+Rock
Agency / Designer Sequence

Brief

Snow+Rock didn’t want a mobile version of their website. They wanted an app that was useful, promoted the brand, would be integral to audience lifestyle & activities of hiking, running, climbing & made full use of platform functionality. Selling would be secondary with users feeling the app added value to their outdoor experience as a useful digital tool. The Windows Phone 7 platform was chosen due to the close fit between Microsoft’s ‘life maximiser’ target audience & S+R’s core customers.

Result

Chosen by Microsoft as a showcase launch app Pathfinder was 1 of only 3 apps included in journalist handsets at the WP7 UK launch. Kevin Young, Marketing Director, Snow+Rock: “We see Pathfinder as a great way to promote relevant outdoor equipment & clothing, interact with customers & reach the millions that go hiking to help improve their experience” Zune Reviews: ‘Amazing Looking app. The benchmark for WP7 apps’, ‘Well made, an inspiration for App developers & makes great use of the Ui’

Solution

Following persona research the app was created to provide route tracking, mapping & offer easy access to content. Users see trails created by others & can create their own. Route data is cached locally so if phone connection is lost the user still has their route on their device. It links to Facebook & Twitter enabling users to publicise recent hikes. The Gear Guide highlights latest equipment. The app represents Snow+Rock’s brand, appeals to the target audience & showcases leading technology