AllGo will allow plus-size folks — “and the people who love us” — to rate businesses and other public spaces. On factors like whether chairs have arms, whether tables and booths move, aisle width, parking, stairs and “environmental, atmospheric factors,”. Like whether a hostess deferred to a person of size on seat selection or made them uncomfortable.
Alexander and Amar raised the needed $50,000 plus some to make their dream a reality. Cultural powerhouses Roxane Gay and Tess Holliday are putting their support behind it. So you know it’s going to be awesome.
The app will mainly be user-driven. Addressing seating details at restaurants to airline policies. They are addressing the spaces that draw the biggest concerns, but eventually, like to add public spaces like theme parks.
I don’t think businesses necessarily understand the impact of some of their decisions when it comes to seating. I think people are making decisions primarily based on aesthetics and cost. With a little bit more information, they could understand how they’re sending messages that places aren’t welcoming for people of size. (Interview with SheKnows.com )
The Future of the App
She found that a lot of business owners are just not aware of the issue, and make design choices based on aesthetic alone. Not taking into consideration their customers. People want to know they’ll be comfortable. Alexander is hoping to launch in Portland in August and 5 other metropolitan areas by next year. Also, to expand out to others with different needs like wheelchair access or hearing impairment. She just hopes to answer the question “Can We All Go?”.