I’ve been working on a new personal finance concept. The app’s goal is to help people manage their money in a way that feels simple, interactive, and stress-free. It’s not focused on automating everything but instead encourages users to actively engage with their finances. Here are some of the core ideas I’m exploring: 1. ‘Stacks’ System: Instead of traditional budgets, users create ‘stacks’ of money for specific purposes (e.g., essentials, goals, or going out). You allocate your money into these stacks and track spending from them directly. 2. Spending Over Budgeting: The focus isn’t on restricting spending but on helping users understand what they can spend without guilt. The idea is to make spending smart, not just cutting back. 3. Debt Tracking: For credit card users, the app aims to simplify debt management by moving unpaid balances into a dedicated ‘Debt Stack.’ This stack would help users understand how overspending impacts their debt and suggest ways to pay it off faster while still enjoying life. 4. Interactivity and Engagement: Instead of a spreadsheet-style budget, the app uses drag-and-drop interactions for allocations. It’s designed to feel less overwhelming and more approachable, especially for those new to managing money. 5. Simple, Focused UI: The app focuses on keeping things simple and ensuring your day-to-day finances are taken care of. No fancy graphs or complicated analytics—just clear balances showing how much is left to spend in each category. Would a tool like this appeal to you? What features would make it more useful? Do you see any potential challenges with this approach? I’m especially interested in hearing from those who: • Struggle with overspending but still want to enjoy their money. • Are trying to get out of debt but find existing tools too complicated or restrictive. • Want a simpler way to track finances without feeling overwhelmed by details. Any thoughts, suggestions, or feedback are greatly appreciated! Thanks for reading, and I’m happy to answer any questions!
What you just described is envelope budgeting or zero-based budgeting. What would separate you from everything else on the market?
Blaine said:
What you just described is envelope budgeting or zero-based budgeting. What would separate you from everything else on the market?
What I’m aiming to do differently is simplify the experience and focus on day-to-day usability. A lot of existing tools feel either too rigid or too complicated, especially for people who are just trying to avoid overspending or manage debt without feeling overwhelmed.
@Jess
That makes sense. So you’re saying it’s more about providing a clear view of what can be spent right now?
I really like the idea of a ‘Debt Stack.’ It sounds like it could help users see the real impact of their spending on their debts without hiding it.
Stormy said:
I really like the idea of a ‘Debt Stack.’ It sounds like it could help users see the real impact of their spending on their debts without hiding it.
Exactly! I want users to see credit as cash and avoid potential overspending. It’s about clarity and management.
The drag-and-drop feature sounds fun and could make budgeting feel less like a chore. I think that’s a great angle.
Bailey said:
The drag-and-drop feature sounds fun and could make budgeting feel less like a chore. I think that’s a great angle.
Thanks! I really want to make the app feel approachable, especially for those new to managing finances.
What about security? With financial apps, I always worry about my data being safe.
Van said:
What about security? With financial apps, I always worry about my data being safe.
That’s a valid concern. I’ll definitely prioritize security features to ensure user data is protected.
I love the idea but am curious about how you’ll handle user education. Some people might still struggle with understanding how to use the ‘Stacks’ system.
Nyx said:
I love the idea but am curious about how you’ll handle user education. Some people might still struggle with understanding how to use the ‘Stacks’ system.
Great point! I plan to include tutorials and tips throughout the app to help users understand the system better.