Role: UX & Visual Designer
Timeline: August 2022 – Present
Team: Cross-functional (Design, Research, Civic)
Tools: Figma, Miro, Cap Cut, Instagram
URL: phlask.me

PHLASK (Philadelphia + Flask) is a civic technology initiative that makes essential public resources — like free water, restrooms, and food — easily located through GIS. Under the umbrella of Code for Philly, it aims to empower residents through open data and community collaboration.

The Problem

In 2017, a survey brought to light that 42% of Philadelphians reported not drinking tap water with “convenience” cited as a top reason– quite revealing. This barrier to access also extends to other public services such as food and restroom availability. Shortly thereafter, the project was initiated as social practice art, then found legs in the welcome home of Code4Philly. I started volunteering in August of 2022 because, as someone who hiked the Appalachian Trail, I have a deep understanding of the importance of generously available fresh water and bathrooms. For me, PHLASK struggled with visibility and community engagement; given my work with Americorps, I saw an opportunity to provide my help.

Research & Insights

• Awareness Gap: Many residents don’t know these resources exist.
• Digital Reliance: People don’t always search for resources online in real-time.
• Volunteer Motivation: Onboarding and retaining volunteers requires clearer value and structure.

Solutions

QR Sticker Campaign

Designed and launched QR stickers to increase real-time access to the PHLASK map. Managed end-to-end from visual design to physical distribution across Philadelphia.

PHLASK QR sticker placed near a water refill station

Design System & Material UI Integration

Built and maintained a Figma library aligned with Material UI to streamline design-to-development handoff.

Reusable components built in Figma for developer handoff

Volunteer Engagement Strategy

Developed questions and structure for contributor interviews to improve onboarding and highlight value propositions for future team members.  Executed five interviews before coaching team member on best practices. Created instagram reel with CapCut.