Pomokitty - A Pomodoro Timer with a Cute Kitty Theme

Content:

What is Pomokitty?
Design Process
2.1. Why did I build Pomokitty?
2.2. User Research
2.3. Colour Theory
2.4. Design and Prototyping
2.5. User Testing
How to use Pomokitty?
Why use Pomokitty?
How to download the Pomokitty app?

1. What is Pomokitty?

PomoKitty is a delightful app that utilises the Pomodoro Technique, a time management method developed by Francesco Cirillo in the late 1980s. This technique breaks work into 25-minute intervals called "pomodoros," followed by 5-minute breaks. After four pomodoros, users take a longer break of 15 to 30 minutes. PomoKitty helps improve focus, prevent burnout, and boost productivity, making it easier to set daily goals, track progress, and stay motivated—all with a touch of cuteness.

PomoKitty not only makes time management enjoyable but also flexible. Users can even reverse the Pomodoro Technique to suit their preferences. For example, they might choose longer work intervals with shorter breaks if that works better for their rhythm. The key is focusing on progress rather than rigid rules. Whether you stick to the traditional Pomodoro setup or customise it to your needs, PomoKitty keeps you on track. The app's design encourages you to celebrate each completed pomodoro, reinforcing the idea that it's all about the progress you make, one step—or pomodoro—at a time.

2. Design Process

2.1. Why did I build PomoKitty?

I initiated the development of Kitt It Up with a simple goal: to tackle the challenge of maintaining focus and motivation during work sessions. Like many individuals, I often struggle with mundane tasks and the temptation to procrastinate. The Pomodoro technique has proven to be an effective strategy for enhancing productivity and time management in my workflow. Additionally, I frequently struggle to remember all the tasks on my agenda. Thus, combining a to-do list with the Pomodoro technique emerged as a practical solution to address these common challenges.

2.2. User Research

To understand user needs, I conducted observations with individuals who use time management techniques. Key findings included:

Users prefer customisable timers to suit their unique work rhythms.
A visually appealing and engaging interface increases motivation and adherence to time management practices.
Integrated task management is highly valued for staying organised and tracking progress.

2.3. Colour Theory

In designing PomoKitty, I carefully selected colours to enhance the user experience and align with the app’s objectives:

Blue: I chose blue as the primary colour for PomoKitty because it is widely associated with calmness and trustworthiness. Blue is known to create a sense of serenity and reliability, which helps users feel more focused and at ease while using the app. Additionally, blue is frequently used in corporate settings, making it a versatile choice that aligns with professional aesthetics and user expectations.
Accent Colors: Various shades of blue and white were selected to create a cohesive and clean design. The different shades of blue add depth and dimension to the interface, making it visually appealing without overwhelming the user. White was used to create contrast and highlight important elements, ensuring that buttons, text, and notifications are easily distinguishable. This combination of colours was intended to maintain a fresh, professional look while making the app user-friendly and accessible.

2.4. Design and Prototyping

Based on the research, I focused on the following design elements:

Customisable Timers: Users can adjust the default 25-minute work session and 5-minute break to better fit their workflow. This flexibility accommodates different work styles and helps users create a personalised productivity rhythm.
Integrated To-Do List: I added a to-do list feature to combine time and task management. Users can add, edit, and delete tasks and strike off completed tasks, providing a comprehensive tool for managing workload and celebrating progress.
User Controls: The app allows users to start, pause, fast forward, and reset pomodoros, giving them full control over their work sessions and accommodating their needs throughout the day.

2.5. User Testing

I conducted usability testing with diverse users to gather feedback on the app's interface and functionality. Key insights included:

Users appreciated the ability to customise timers and found the process straightforward.
The design and changing background colours to differentiate between work and break time effectively indicate the different phases and make time management more enjoyable.
The to-do list integration was well-received, with users finding it useful for staying organised and a good reminder of the tasks they need to complete.

3. How to use Pomokitty?

The default work time is set to 25 minutes, with a 5-minute break in between.
Users can customise these timers to fit their work style.
You can start, pause, fast forward, and reset the pomodoro.

PomoKitty also includes a handy to-do list feature:

Users can add, edit, and delete tasks as needed.
Once a task is completed, users can "strike" it off the list, providing a satisfying sense of accomplishment.

4. Why use Pomokitty?

Cute and Motivating Interface: PomoKitty's charming design adds a playful touch to productivity, making it more enjoyable to stay on task.
Customisable Timers: Unlike many other apps that stick to rigid time intervals, PomoKitty lets you adjust work and break periods to match your workflow, giving you more flexibility.
Integrated To-Do List: PomoKitty combines time management with task management. You can easily add, edit, delete, and strike off tasks, keeping everything organised in one place.
User-Friendly Controls: With features like start, pause, fast forward, and reset, PomoKitty gives you full control over your work sessions, allowing you to adapt as your day unfolds.
Focus on Progress: PomoKitty emphasises progress, helping you celebrate each completed pomodoro and task, which keeps you motivated and on track to achieve your goals.

PomoKitty is a Progressive Web App (PWA) that you can download on your mobile devices, iPads, and monitors.

5. How to download the Pomokitty app?

Downloading PomoKitty as an app is quick and easy, giving you a seamless experience across all your devices. Here’s how to do it:

On Mobile Devices (Android & iOS):

1. Open PomoKitty in Your Browser: Visit the PomoKitty website using your preferred mobile browser (Chrome for Android, Safari for iOS).

2. Add to Home Screen:

For Android (Chrome):
- Tap the three-dot menu in the top-right corner.
- Select “Add to Home screen.”
- Customise the name if you like, then tap “Add.”

For iOS (Safari):
- Tap the share button at the bottom of the screen.
- Scroll down and select “Add to Home Screen.”
- Customise the name if you like, then tap “Add.”

3. Launch the App: Once added, you’ll see the PomoKitty icon on your home screen. Tap it to launch the app directly like a native application.

On iPad:

Open PomoKitty in Safari: Visit the PomoKitty website using Safari on your iPad.
Add to Home Screen:
- Tap the share button at the top-right corner of the screen.
- Scroll down and select “Add to Home Screen.”
- Customise the name if you like, then tap “Add.”
Launch the App: The PomoKitty icon will appear on your home screen. Tap it to launch the app.

On Desktop or Monitor:

Download Pomokitty via Chrome on your Desktop

Open PomoKitty in Your Browser (Chrome): Visit the PomoKitty website using Chrome.
Install the App:
- In Chrome:
  - Click on the install icon in the address bar (usually shaped like a computer with an arrow).
  - Confirm by clicking “Install.”
Launch the App: Once installed, PomoKitty will launch in its window and can be accessed from your desktop or start menu like any other application.

Enjoy the flexibility and convenience of PomoKitty across all your devices, all for free! If you find the app helpful, consider donating to support its development.