If you want to build an app for teens, what’s the best test of your design? First you base it on research-backed curricula. Of course you design it with the best safety and privacy guardrails, we all know the internet is a wild frontier. Then you work with software developers who can put your ideas in action. 

But . . . 

The proof of the pudding is when teenagers get their hands on it and let you know exactly what they think.

This August, we had a dynamic and diverse group of teen interns from Furness, Lankenau, Carver, and Creative & Performing Arts High Schools come to the Inner Strength offices and give us their unmitigated response.

They tested the design of the User Interface, colors, navigation, and hierarchy of information. They asked for some important improvements.

They listened to audio recordings and shared what they loved and . . . what needs a V2. 

They weighed in on future features, interestingly one of the ones we were most excited about was not a fav for them. 

The collaboration and freedom they all felt to express their observations and opinions (not try to get the right answer) was empowering. They bonded with each other, creating a group chat so they could stay in touch. They supported the shy ones amongst the group and everyone grew. Some opened a bank account in their own name for the first time to cash their work checks. They offered to be ambassadors at their schools when the app drops. Everyone was sad when our time together came to a close. 

For our software development team, we have a lot to follow up on. The experience itself though lacked nothing, it was a delight start to finish. I am confident we’ll see more from these and other students in the months ahead.