Tom Dunne
Multidisciplinary Designer
La Colombe
This case study examines the potential development and branding of a multi-functional app designed for children aged between 2-8 years.
The app, named La Colombe, aims to encourage play, exploration, and learning while providing essential safety features for parents.
The name "La Colombe" is French for "The Dove," symbolizing peace—reflecting the app’s goal of offering peace of mind for parents and
a peaceful, nurturing digital environment for children.
The branding is inspired by the playful and imaginative spirit of Picasso's lithographs,
targeting parents and instilling a sense of trust and calm.
Picasso Lithographs: The app's visual design is influenced by Picasso’s lithographs, which use bold, child-like lines and abstract forms that evoke a sense
of innocence and creativity. The color palette is soft yet vibrant, with playful illustrations that appeal to both children and adults. This artistic
approach helps the app stand out in a crowded market, creating a connection to the timeless and universally recognized art of Picasso.
Target Audience: While children are the primary users, the branding is directed at parents, emphasizing the app’s safety, educational value, and
developmental benefits. The name "La Colombe" reinforces this by symbolizing peace, suggesting that parents can trust the app to provide a safe, enriching experience
for their children.
Child Mode: Learning Through Play
Free-to-Play Learning Aid:
The app is designed with an intuitive, child-friendly interface that supports free exploration.
Children can engage with various educational activities independently, allowing them to learn at
their own pace.
Drag-and-Drop Elements:
This feature promotes cognitive development by allowing children to interact with shapes, letters,
and numbers in a playful, hands-on manner. These tasks enhance fine motor skills and foster
problem-solving abilities.
Tracing Tasks:
Designed to help young children improve their handwriting and coordination, these tasks involve
tracing letters, numbers, and shapes, developing foundational skills for writing and drawing.
Parent Mode: Safety and Health Monitoring
Safety Information: Parents can access detailed safety information regarding their child’s use of the app.
This includes monitoring screen time, content preferences, and interaction history, providing peace of mind that the
app is being used in a beneficial and safe manner.
Location Tracking: Utilizing GPS technology, the app offers location tracking through an alternate
device. This feature is especially valuable for parents who want to ensure their child's safety outside the
home. The tracking is designed to be discreet and secure, respecting the privacy of both parent and child.
Health Monitor: The app integrates with wearable devices to track the child’s physical activity,
sleep patterns, and other health indicators. This feature helps parents monitor their child’s overall well-being
and make informed decisions about their health and lifestyle.
Appointment Scheduler: This tool allows parents to schedule and manage important appointments such as
doctor visits, vaccinations, and parent-teacher meetings. Integrated reminders and notifications help parents
stay organized and on top of their child’s health and educational needs.
La Colombe successfully combines educational and safety tools, offering a holistic solution for both children and parents.
Its branding, inspired by Picasso's lithographs and the symbolism of the dove, effectively appeals to the target audience, creating
a strong connection with parents through a blend of trust, creativity, and tranquility.
The concept of the app stands out not only
for its aesthetic appeal but also for its comprehensive feature set, making it an essential tool for modern families seeking peace
of mind and a peaceful, nurturing digital environment for their children.