Context
Chosen goal, app version, time period and how Reef was used.
Design · boundaries · evaluation
A useful metaphor is not a promise of results.
Reef makes repetition visible and engaging. This methodology explains how to design that experience without turning an app mechanic into an unsupported psychological or medical claim.
1. Start with a chosen action
The user defines what they want to repeat. Reef can help record that action and make it visible over time, but it does not decide whether the goal is appropriate. A realistic, observable goal that fits the person’s context is more useful than an abstract formula.
2. Make feedback understandable
The pearl, reef and creatures give visual form to a recorded action. Feedback must remain understandable: users should be able to distinguish what they entered, what the app calculates and what is purely animation.
An engaging animation does not prove that a method is effective. The guides therefore describe possible uses, not guaranteed results.
3. Preserve choice and recovery
A habit tool should not turn one missed day into a disproportionate penalty. The design favours a clear return path, editable goals and progress that remains in the user’s service. Notifications, when used, must remain under the person’s control.
4. Set boundaries for claims
- Do not present Reef as a treatment, diagnosis or medical device.
- Do not infer a health improvement from app use or a streak alone.
- Distinguish observable features from hypotheses about motivation.
- Date and cite external sources when a guide summarises research.
- State a study’s limits before drawing a recommendation from it.
General information about habits is not a substitute for advice from a qualified professional when a situation concerns physical or mental health.
5. Standard for future user reports
Measures
Consented data appropriate to the question, without turning an internal streak into a health outcome.
Observed outcome
What actually changed during the period, without promising the same result will recur.
Limitations
Self-reporting, personal context, attrition, external changes and any lack of comparison.
No testimonial, user, retention rate or benefit is invented to illustrate this structure. A case is published only when it exists and sharing is authorised.
Sources and corrections
Current features can be verified on the product site and store listings. Data rules are detailed in the privacy policy. Errors can be reported to contact@reeftogether.com.