Hive is a mobile application designed to connect international students in Canada with verified and affordable housing options. By streamlining the accommodation search process, Hive empowers students to find a safe and welcoming home away from home.
Responsibility
Duration
The Challenge
International students studying in Toronto face significant challenges in finding affordable accommodation/housing options near their universities. Despite the city's vibrant academic environment, the high cost of living and competitive rental market create barriers that hinder students from securing suitable living arrangements.
Objective
The objective of this project is to design a user-centered solution that addresses the housing challenges faced by international students in Toronto. By understanding their needs, preferences, I aim to create an intuitive application that streamlines the housing search process, It will help students find housing faster and feel supported by their community. This way, their time in Toronto/Canada will be better overall.
Hypothesis
A tool specifically tailored to the needs of international students in Toronto, then we expect to see an increase in the efficiency of the housing search process and a decrease in stress levels associated with finding affordable accommodation.
By creating an intuitive and accessible platform that incorporates features such as budget filtering, proximity to campus and community recommendations, we anticipate that international students will be able to find suitable housing options more efficiently.
High fidelity mockups
Research
For this project, I conducted quantitative research to understand the perspectives of international students.
Biggest Challenge: High rental costs, followed by limited budgets and distance from campus.
Top Priorities: Affordability, utilities included, neighborhood safety, and proximity to campus.
Understanding Rental Laws: Many students find it difficult to understand Canadian rental laws and tenant rights.
Dissatisfaction: Some students are unhappy with their current living situations.
Suggestions for Improvement:
Schools should offer more affordable housing options (budget-friendly apartments or hostel-style accommodations).
A reduction in rental prices would significantly help.
Housing Search Methods:
Students rely on online platforms like social media groups and Kijiji.
There is a preference for informal, peer-recommended housing sources.
Housing search experience
Neutral
Negative
Very negative
Positive
Wireframes
Home screen
With clear navigation and intuitive filters, listings that match with students budget and preferences.
By including features that highlight affordable housing options and provide transparency around rental prices. By allowing them to set budget range and filter out options that are too expensive
Booking flow
Users can easily book a tour to view the listing by providing basic information or chat with the renter in the application about any inquiries.
Listings
Creating a helpful community on the platform encourages students to work together and feel more confident when searching for housing, making their experience better overall.
Understanding what users want, like affordable and convenient options, is crucial for creating solutions that help international students find housing easily.
Using technology like mobile apps makes it easier and faster for international students to find housing, matching their preference for digital tools.
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