Mingly – dating site for everyone
5. March 2025Despite the wide range of options we have nowadays, dating can be difficult for many people, both online and in everyday life. For people with disabilities, however, it can be even more of a challenge. This was one of the reasons why the dating app Mingly was created – a safe and accessible space for everyone. The UX/UI design for this app was designed by Veronika Hniličková, a graduate of the Digital Design studio, as part of her master thesis.
“In the course of my work, I hear stories that are truly alarming. People tell me that if they list their disability on a dating site, they don’t hear from anyone,” says Kristýna Mertlová, co-creator of the app and dating expert. Online dating sites can be both a challenge and an opportunity. They can provide anonymity and time to think, but they can also be a place where people judge only superficial attributes. Many people have preconceived ideas about disabilities, which can lead to mistrust and disinterest. These challenges can be hard, but it is also important to look for ways to overcome them and find support in the community.
Mingly was created at the instigation of this. A brand, an app and a community that emphasizes awareness and natural engagement for users with disabilities. It represents not only a dating site, but also a community space that allows users to discuss in the form of special discussion rooms, educate themselves or consult with a dating expert.
The original TvojeLáska.cz project was created in 2017. The then form of the platform was not completely user-friendly and looked unfashionable. This led to the need to redesign the website towards a modern responsive application adapted to the needs of users with disabilities. Therefore, the platform underwent a complete rebranding from TvojeLáska.cz to Mingly. The preparation included research into the area of online dating, digital accessibility, analysis of the existing app and competing platforms.
At the end of 2023, the prototype application was tested. Participants included both people with and without physical disabilities from different age groups and sexual orientations. The result of the testing was positive and the app was evaluated positively. From September 2024 it is available to the general public on the Mingly.cz website.