
FWD: SAFE AND SECURE SOCIAL MEDIA NETWORKING
Challenge
FWD came to NERDZ LAB with an MVP project left by three previous vendors, resulting in poor code quality and a barely functioning prototype. After a thorough code review, our team concluded that refactoring was the best option.
FWD’s false starts had left them with tight time and budget constraints for MVP app development. To maximize efficiency, we chose Flutter as the development framework so we could write code once and deploy it simultaneously on iOS and Android. We also used a Node.js codebase to maintain stability and minimize changes to existing business logic.
The client received a functional social media application, successfully launched on app stores. We worked with FWD’s owners to build a social media app with privacy controls, secure validation, and an advanced recommendation engine. NERDZ LAB also designed and launched a user-friendly website emphasizing FWD’s social app positioning as a trusted, safe space to connect.
FWD came to NERDZ LAB with an MVP project left by three previous vendors, resulting in poor code quality and a barely functioning prototype. After a thorough code review, our team concluded that refactoring was the best option.
FWD’s false starts had left them with tight time and budget constraints for MVP app development. To maximize efficiency, we chose Flutter as the development framework so we could write code once and deploy it simultaneously on iOS and Android. We also used a Node.js codebase to maintain stability and minimize changes to existing business logic.
The client received a functional social media application, successfully launched on app stores. We worked with FWD’s owners to build a social media app with privacy controls, secure validation, and an advanced recommendation engine. NERDZ LAB also designed and launched a user-friendly website emphasizing FWD’s social app positioning as a trusted, safe space to connect.
Solution
FEATURES_
- Private social hub. We built FWD as a private ecosystem where friends can help their network connect with new matches.
- Easy navigation. Users can connect through direct introductions, friend-recommended profiles, and daily personalized suggestions.
- User identity validation. An algorithm validates user identities and eligibility (18+ only) to build trust and authenticity.
- Photo validation. Advanced photo validation prevents spam and bots and promotes a respectful and safe environment.
Advanced recommendation algorithm. A smart algorithm suggests profiles based on personal preferences and friend recommendations, ensuring highly accurate matches. - Messaging. Direct messaging lets users easily get in touch with friends and new connections.
- Shouts. Users “shout out” social needs, fostering open communication within the network.
- Privacy and control. Users have complete control over profile visibility. They can showcase their profile only to ideal matches and friend introductions in a screenshot-free and no data-selling zone.
FEATURES_
- Private social hub. We built FWD as a private ecosystem where friends can help their network connect with new matches.
- Easy navigation. Users can connect through direct introductions, friend-recommended profiles, and daily personalized suggestions.
- User identity validation. An algorithm validates user identities and eligibility (18+ only) to build trust and authenticity.
- Photo validation. Advanced photo validation prevents spam and bots and promotes a respectful and safe environment.
Advanced recommendation algorithm. A smart algorithm suggests profiles based on personal preferences and friend recommendations, ensuring highly accurate matches. - Messaging. Direct messaging lets users easily get in touch with friends and new connections.
- Shouts. Users “shout out” social needs, fostering open communication within the network.
- Privacy and control. Users have complete control over profile visibility. They can showcase their profile only to ideal matches and friend introductions in a screenshot-free and no data-selling zone.
Results
- A culturally appropriate UX. FWD targets the Indian market, where introductions traditionally rely on close circles. Our design helped the client bridge the gap between traditional matchmaking and modern digital networking.
- High app store ratings. FWD has already gained positive user feedback and high ratings on app stores.
- A functioning MVP in a tight timeframe. NERDZ LAB turned round the client's poor experience with three previous vendors to deliver an MVP that met requirements perfectly in record time.
- Fractional CTO support. FWD’s owners used NERDZ LAB’s CTO as a service for their startup MVP development to get on-demand access to technology leadership and strategic guidance without the cost of a full-time hire.
- A culturally appropriate UX. FWD targets the Indian market, where introductions traditionally rely on close circles. Our design helped the client bridge the gap between traditional matchmaking and modern digital networking.
- High app store ratings. FWD has already gained positive user feedback and high ratings on app stores.
- A functioning MVP in a tight timeframe. NERDZ LAB turned round the client's poor experience with three previous vendors to deliver an MVP that met requirements perfectly in record time.
- Fractional CTO support. FWD’s owners used NERDZ LAB’s CTO as a service for their startup MVP development to get on-demand access to technology leadership and strategic guidance without the cost of a full-time hire.