In collaboration with the Croatian Red Cross, Prolink developed the Integration to go mobile application, specifically designed to assist in the integration process of persons forced to leave their homeland and start a new life in Croatia—the application is the result of a concrete need for a modern and adaptable tool that facilitates access to basic information and services necessary for daily life in a new environment, while simultaneously reducing the stress and uncertainty that accompany the process of adapting to an unfamiliar environment. Through joint work with Red Cross staff who work daily with the migrant population, key functionalities and content that would be most useful to users in different phases of their journey were defined—from the moment of arrival in Croatia, through first steps in navigating, to longer-term life planning and inclusion in the local community.
Multilingualism and user adaptation as a core functionality
One of the fundamental functionalities of the application is complete multilingual support that enables users to access information in a language they understand—the application automatically detects the language of the user's device and adapts the interface and content accordingly, eliminating the need for manual language selection and reducing the possibility of error. In cases where the language is not directly supported, the application defaults to English as a universal language of communication to ensure a minimum level of understanding and accessibility, and special support has been implemented for right-to-left languages such as Arabic, further enhancing the user experience for people coming from different linguistic and cultural contexts. This level of language adaptation is not merely a technical feature but an expression of understanding for the situation of people facing numerous challenges in a new environment, where communication in one's own language can be crucial for a sense of security and understanding.
Flexible content management through an administrative system
All application content is managed through a centralized administrative system that uses a REST API for communication between the mobile application and the database—this architectural solution enables the Croatian Red Cross to quickly and easily change data without needing to update the application itself on user devices, which is particularly important in a dynamic environment where information about help locations, legal regulations, or contacts frequently changes. Administrative staff can independently enter new content, update existing information about shelter locations, social welfare centers, health institutions, language courses, or employment opportunities, with all changes immediately visible to application users. In this way, it is ensured that the application always contains current and accurate information, which is crucial for user trust and the effectiveness of provided support.
Focus on accessibility and ease of use for all generations
The application was developed for Android and iOS operating systems, with emphasis on interface simplicity, clarity, and fast content loading—special attention was paid to accessibility to enable users who may not be technologically skilled or are encountering such digital tools for the first time to easily navigate and use the application without needing additional technical support. Icons are clear and intuitive, navigation logical and consistent, and texts written in understandable language avoiding bureaucratic expressions that could confuse users. Typography and color contrast are adapted for people with potential visual impairments, and the size of touch areas enables easy use even for people with motor difficulties—ensuring the application is accessible to the widest possible range of users.
Content structure tailored to real user needs
Application content is organized into thematic units covering the most important aspects of life in a new environment—from information about rights and obligations, through healthcare and social services, to education, language learning, and employment opportunities. Each thematic unit contains practical information, step-by-step instructions for handling specific procedures, contact details of competent institutions and organizations, and links to additional sources of help. Special attention is given to information about locations where users can receive direct assistance—from shelters and food and clothing distribution points to counseling centers and psychosocial support centers—with clear instructions on how to reach these locations and what to bring.
Technical implementation and data security
The application was developed using modern technologies ensuring stable operation on different devices and operating system versions, with implementation of security mechanisms protecting user privacy and the integrity of data exchanged through the application. Given the sensitivity of the population the application is intended for, special attention was paid to protecting data about user location and movement, as well as any other information that could jeopardize their safety in case of unauthorized access. Communication between the application and servers is encrypted using standard security protocols, and access to the administrative system is protected by multi-factor authentication and detailed permission control at the individual user level.
Contribution to social inclusion and long-term project value
Integration to go is not merely a technical tool but represents an important contribution to inclusion, empowerment, and orientation of persons in a challenging life period—by enabling the migrant population access to timely information and services, the application becomes a bridge between them and the local community and reduces barriers in the adaptation and integration process. By providing reliable information in an understandable language, the application contributes to reducing the stress and uncertainty accompanying arrival in a new country, empowers users for independent action, and enables them to more easily integrate into society. In the long term, such digital tools not only facilitate daily life for individuals but also contribute to social cohesion as a whole, creating conditions for more successful integration and mutual understanding.
Why the Croatian Red Cross chose Prolink for application development
When selecting a partner for the development of this sensitive and socially important application, the Croatian Red Cross sought a team that not only possesses technical competencies for developing mobile solutions but also understands the specifics of working with vulnerable groups and the importance of adapting technology to their real needs and capabilities. Prolink's development approach encompasses user needs analysis, definition of optimal functionalities, and implementation of solutions that bring real value through improved accessibility of information and services. Throughout the project, from initial consultations and content definition to testing with end users and implementation, collaboration proceeded through regular agreements and adjustments based on feedback from Red Cross staff working daily with the migrant population. If you are considering introducing digital tools to support vulnerable groups in your organization—whether migrants, refugees, or other persons for whom access to information is difficult—we are here to discuss the approach and scope that best suit your specific needs and goals.