Gen Z users are struggling to find meaningful connections and engage in fulfilling social interactions on existing social networking. These platforms tend to emphasize superficial connections based on follower count, leaving users craving authentic relationships and real-life experiences. The current landscape fails to effectively facilitate connections between like-minded individuals and does not cater to the unique preferences and needs of the Gen Z demographic. Consequently, this constant exposure to social media has a negative impact on the mental health of users, causing feelings of inadequacy, anxiety, and loneliness.
Gen Z users need a social networking platform that promotes authentic connections and in-person interactions in order to overcome the challenges of superficial relationships, digital overload, and difficulty in finding like-minded individuals, as well as to achieve a more fulfilling and tailored social experience that positively impacts mental health.
To start to understand the big picture and the problems, I researched the big players in the market as well as parallel markets. I read user reviews of various products to see where improvements could be made.
Superficial connections:
Existing platforms often prioritize follower Promote opportunities for users to feel secure, while being mindful of minimizing the mental effort required to represent their online identity.
Online fatigue:
Promote opportunities for users to feel secure, while being mindful of minimizing the mental effort required to represent their online identity. Investigate approaches that allow users to experience a sense of safety while still facilitating expressive communication.
Memory Basin:
Total participants: 29
A service design method used to explore the associations people have regarding one specific subject.
Online fatigue:
Total participants: 54
A service design method used to explore the Created a 26 question survey to gain insights on Gen Z's social interactions and experiences.
Interview:
Total participants: 15
Adapted 26 questions to conduct in-depth interviews about social behaviors.
Superficial connections: Reduce social pressure, foster a sense of safety, and encourage genuine interactions. It is crucial to address these issues, and reimagine the ways in which social media platforms operate, to better cater to the needs and preferences of this younger generation.
Online fatigue: Feel secure, while being mindful of minimizing the mental effort required to represent their online identity. Investigate approaches that allow users to experience a sense of safety while still facilitating expressive communication.
Interest-based matching: Don’t make me care about anyone I don’t care about. Make connections based on users' interests, hobbies, or personality, making it easier for them to find and engage with others who share their passions.
Less is more: Don't let your UI get in the way of your most important content. Instantly point users to value. Limiting controls and adding barriers removes pretense and adds an element of authenticity to your product.
Safety and moderation: Implement robust security measures and content moderation policies to create a welcoming and inclusive environment for all users. This includes a zero tolerance policy for harassment, bullying and other forms of misconduct, and a reporting system to address any concerns or questions.
Pick some popular activities and wonderful places based on Gen Z interests and frees them from endless "chat" phases by connecting with like-minded people you want to hang out in a physical location.
