Y-Alert App

Y-Alert is a mobile app concept designed to support university students, particularly international students, during emergency situations. In moments of crisis, phone lines often become overloaded, making it difficult for people to contact family or receive timely information. This project explores an alternative, low-effort way for students to communicate their safety and stay informed without relying on calls. At the core of the app is a one-tap “I am safe” function. During an emergency, users can quickly confirm their status, triggering an automatic message sent to their pre-selected emergency contacts. This interaction minimizes cognitive load and stress, allowing users to communicate essential information with a single action. Location-based alerts notify users when they are in an affected area, prompting check-ins only when relevant.
The app also includes a community board where users can share real-time updates, ask questions, and access verified announcements. This feature supports peer-to-peer information sharing while reducing uncertainty during unfolding situations. Additional sections provide emergency contact numbers, official alerts, maps, and guidance on actions to take during different types of disasters. The interface prioritizes clarity, accessibility, and speed, using clear hierarchy, large touch targets, and a calm visual language appropriate for high-stress scenarios. Designed as a bilingual system, Y-Alert supports both local and international users, reflecting the needs of a diverse campus environment. The final concept demonstrates how thoughtful interaction design can support safety, communication, and community during critical moments.