To develop our design, we moved into user contextual inquiry. We decided to categorize our potential users into frequent versus less frequent walkers, in order to compare and contrast their needs and approaches. We solicited frequent walkers for hour-long interviews through targeted solicitation in community and university email lists and forums. We also needed to address other, less-frequent walkers. Knowing that those less committed to walking would be unlikely to sit for a long interview, we created a 10-minute online survey for them.

We found that both groups of walkers had very similar desires and concerns. Both groups were interested in a walking program that would create a sense of adventure and exploration, but with controls based on ratings and feedback on individuals and destinations. However, many were reluctant to expend the effort to set up and use yet another social network without assurances that others would use it.

In contrast, less frequent walkers were extremely interested in social walking. The most advanced level of mobile device that was shared and used was SMS text messages, and some were infrequent computer users. In contrast, less frequent walkers commonly owned different smartphones.