The Nai'a Guide 2.0: Utilizing Mobile Apps for Marine Conservation Efforts

Abstract

With 75% of Americans owning a smartphone, such devices and subsequent apps are effective, but underutilized resources to promote marine conservation issues. This project consisted of three components. First, I built a web-based app called The Nai‘a Guide based off an existing app to educate those looking to participate in swim-with Hawaiian spinner dolphin programs about the biology of the animal and proper interaction etiquette. This type of app has many advantages for organizations looking to design similar apps, including responsiveness across multiple device types and platforms and ease of use for non-developers. Second, I searched iTunes and Google Play to determine the number and relevance of apps using four keywords. I found environmental conservation apps make up an insignificant portion of the total apps available and a vast majority of the search results are not relevant. Finally, I did a series of interviews with organizations that have relevant apps available to learn more about their outreach strategy, resulting in a number of key recommendations for future app development.