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A Student-Centric, Smart Solution for Second Hand Items

A Student-Centric, Smart Solution for Second Hand Items

Role
Service Designer, Visual Designer
Timeline
Feb 25 - Mar 25
Tools
Figma, Adobe Illustrator

Overview

Pennypals is a service for international master's students who don't need to stay long-term but still require everyday products within a certain budget. This service can be a game-changer for them, making their life abroad much simpler and feel more like home!

The Challenge

"I need to buy so many essentials to settle here, it is going to be really expensive "

— A New Student

"I need to buy so many essentials to settle here, it is going to be really expensive " — A New Student

"I really don't want to throw such a good toaster but I can't carry as well"

— A Graduate Student

"I really don't want to throw such a good toaster but I can't carry as well" — A Graduate Student

As shown above, there is a market gap in the re-selling and buying of the products, so there will be a demand for a service in this space.
How might we encourage better waste management at the university while giving new students an opportunity to buy second-hand products at a lower price and better access.

The Solution

Providing teens a right space to actively engage with climate issues and join climate positive communities to boost their confidence. Additionally, managing energy consumption at home through smart meter data and use it effectively.
  1. Budget-Savvy Student Shopping
    • Prices much lower than the regular price
    • Reliable space for short term needs

  2. Fostering a Circular Economy Mindset
    • Giving a budget-friendly platform
    • Slow shift towards a greener opportunities

  3. Building Social Networks
    • Treasure Hunt games in the student fair
    • Online interest group chat space on Pennypals

Service Ecosystem Mapping

Before

After

Expensive new products.
Difficulty disposing
Before: Expensive new products. Difficulty disposing

Students

Under budget products for short-term and easy dispose options.
After: Under budget products for short-term and easy dispose options.
Products pile-up as waste during end-term
Before: Products pile-up as waste during end-term

Universities

Decreased concerns for throwing good products.
After: Decreased concerns for throwing good products.
Low trust and connectivity
Before: Low trust and connectivity

Community

Better neighbourhood and friendly community
After: Better neighbourhood and friendly community
Pollution and congestion
Before: Pollution and congestion

Delivery

Pollution reduction and clearer roads.
After: Pollution reduction and clearer roads.

Business Model

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