We performed a SWOT analysis on the first iteration to identify gaps in our user stories and features for future iterations of Zesty, as well as what potential pitfalls to avoid falling into.

After our second iteration, we conducted user testing on our low-fidelity prototypes, carefully considering and addressing users' feedback. For instance, one user recommended placing the Preferences button directly below the Home button on the hamburger menu, as they felt users would logically set their preferences before performing actions like searching for recipes or adding ingredients to their grocery list. Another user suggested adding a Help button to the menu to assist those who want to learn more about using the app. We incorporated both of these suggestions into our most recent iteration.

We also conducted user interviews, and one key takeaway was that one of the main reasons people cook at home is to save money that would otherwise be spent on dining out or ordering in. Based on this insight, we have decided to offer Zesty as a free subscription with no commitments required (such as signing up or providing an email address). However, some features will be limited to those on monthly or yearly paid plans, which will be priced affordably.

In response to user concerns about the time and stress involved in cooking, we developed recipe categories such as "30-Minute Meals" and "Simple Yet Tasty Meals," with plans to continually expand these options. For health-conscious users, we've designed the app's interface to visually promote healthy eating while gently encouraging users toward nutritious choices. Additionally, Zesty will offer specialized recipe categories to meet specific health needs, such as 'Low-Calorie Meals,' 'Vegetarian Meals,' 'Animal Protein Meals,' 'Low-Fat Meals,' and 'Zero-Sugar Desserts.'

To address the frustration of limited meal options when certain ingredients are unavailable, we plan to introduce a feature where users can input one or more ingredients, and the app will generate meal ideas that include those items. We also aim to add a feature that suggests potential ingredient substitutes, helping users make do with what they have at home.

For users who struggle with managing multiple tools for meal planning, grocery shopping, pantry management, and cooking tutorials, we are designing Zesty as an all-in-one app. Zesty will combine the visual inspiration of Pinterest, the cooking tutorials of YouTube, and the pantry tracking features of apps like Google, streamlining the entire cooking process.

As our research shows that people prefer to get inspiration from bloggers they know and trust, we plan to partner with food bloggers for future publicity efforts. For users in multi-person households who have trouble agreeing on a meal, Zesty will feature a fun "Spin the Wheel" tool, which randomly selects a meal of the day—while considering everyone's allergies or dietary restrictions.

Future updates will include additional features like reminders to check ingredient freshness, meal prep, or grocery shop, food-related podcasts, relaxing music playlists for cooking, humorous text and GIFs throughout the app, and a social hub where users can share recipes, review meals, post food photos, and exchange culinary tips. Most importantly, our users will play a key role in shaping the app’s evolution, helping to decide which new features are added next.