Introducing MyCrohnicles: Empowering IBD Patients to Track and Improve Their Health
Since I was five years old, I have developed a deeper understanding of the daily struggles faced by individuals living with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD). This was the driving force to work with my cousin, Shravan Rajagopal, and my brother, Svadrut Krishnamurthy. I am glad to announce that we have co-founded and co-developed an app called MyCrohnicles. Our mission was to create a comprehensive solution that enables people with IBD to track their exercise, diet, and bowel movements, ultimately helping them understand how these factors impact their well-being.
To develop the App, we divided the responsibilities among us and I chose to be the designer. As the lead designer of MyCrohnicles, my goal was to create an app that is functional but most importantly intuitive and visually appealing.
I wanted users to have quick and easy access to their data, minimizing the need for excessive button clicking or face complicated navigation. I wanted the user interface to be simple and streamlined. With this design goal, we aimed to make the tracking process seamless and efficient, allowing users to focus on their health rather than cumbersome app interactions.
Right from the get-go, I wanted to create a logo that is visually striking and meaningful. I wanted the icon to represent the intestines, symbolizing the connection to the digestive system affected by IBD. The purple section of the logo forms the letter “M,” representing MyCrohnicles, while the orange section forms the letter “C,” symbolizing Crohn’s and Colitis. Purple, the color associated with Crohn’s and Colitis, was chosen for its significance, while the orange represents the Crohn’s and Colitis Foundation of America (CCFA). Using drawing tools on an iPad and design software like Figma, I crafted the logo to convey the essence of our app’s purpose.
The centerpiece of MyCrohnicles is the consolidated rating system. After each activity, whether it’s exercise, a meal, or a bowel movement, users have the opportunity to rate how they feel. These ratings are then averaged to generate a single, comprehensive score for the day. By providing a holistic view of their well-being, this feature enables users to reflect on their experiences and identify which activities and foods work best for them.
Accessibility was a top priority during the design process. Considering the needs of users with colorblindness and other visual impairments, I carefully selected colors and fonts that were easily distinguishable and readable. Through the React Native StyleSheets and Tailwind CSS (through the twrnc package), I ensured that the app’s layout and visual elements were accessible to all individuals, regardless of their visual capabilities.
Looking toward the future, we have exciting plans to enhance the user experience of MyCrohnicles. Specifically, Dark mode is on our roadmap to provide users with a more comfortable viewing experience in low-light environments. Additionally, I am exploring the implementation of Generative AI, aiming to provide more personalized user experience.
MyCrohnicles is not just an app; it’s a tool for empowering individuals with IBD to take control of their health. By tracking their exercise, diet, and bowel movements, users gain insights into their well-being and develop personalized strategies for managing their condition. With a user-friendly interface, a thoughtfully designed logo, and a commitment to accessibility, MyCrohnicles is here to support and guide individuals on their journey with IBD. Together, we can make a positive impact on the lives of those affected by Crohn’s and Colitis.
You can download MyCrohnicles from the AppStore and the Play Store.
To learn more about the conceptualization and the development of this app, please visit the following blogs:
