Airbnb Match

January - March 2024

Role: Project Lead, Lead User Experience Designer, Lead Service Designer

Tools Used: XD, Photoshop, Miro

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What Is AirBnb Match?

In a world where Gen Z is grappling with a loneliness crisis, Airbnb Match offers a transformative solution. Leveraging user data such as age, location, personality, and travel preferences, the service curates authentic in-person experiences. By connecting users with hosts who share similar interests, our platform enables personalised activities, fostering genuine friendships. With a focus on combating loneliness and revolutionising real-world relationships, Airbnb Match empowers Gen Z to create unforgettable memories and meaningful connections in the midst of a digital age.

The Mission

“Airbnb exists to empower people to find the stay that is right for them; to create unique stays and experiences; and most importantly build genuine connections that matter. For Gen Z, these connections are vital. Loneliness is becoming a new epidemic amongst those aged 16-24, with Forbes highlighting that 73% of Gen Z report feeling lonely sometimes or always – and with loneliness being as damaging to your health as up to 15 cigarettes a day, it’s an important statistic that needs turning around.
Create a digital tool or experience that capitalises on Gen Z’s online connectivity to deliver meaningful IRL experiences through Airbnb. Whilst you should consider and include existing Airbnb products, you should also consider what new opportunities your idea could offer to deepen connections and develop exciting and rewarding interactions.”

Research

85% of users say that lack of time attributes to them not seeing their friends

73% of user said that making lifelong memories was their main motivation

Most users agreed that social media doesn't provide them with fulfilling social connection

The pandemic has seriously harmed Gen Z's confidence, decreasing their ability to form IRL friendships

73% of users agreed their social media

consumption was excessive

The Problem Statement

"Gen Z is grappling with a loneliness crisis in an era dominated by virtual interactions. Despite their strong inclination towards making memories and spending quality time with friends and family, existing social platforms often fail to address this need for genuine, in-person connections. Leveraging Airbnb’s unique platform, the challenge is to develop a solution that curates authentic IRL experiences, aligning with the values and preferences of Gen Z, and thereby combating the prevalent loneliness epidemic within this demographic."

The Service Blueprint