Branding | User Experience | User Research
The loneliness crisis in America is alarming, especially among seniors. With nearly 14 million elderly individuals living alone, and 40% of those aged 65 and older feeling isolated, the impact on health is profound, with risks including dementia and heart failure. Additionally, the generation gap exacerbates this issue, fostering misunderstandings and tension between different age groups.
Welcome to Orbit, the conceptual online platform where connections transcend age barriers. Orbit is a unique space designed to bridge generations through shared interests, hobbies, and passions. Our mission is simple: to foster meaningful connections between older and younger adults, empowering them to learn from each other, and build genuine relationships that enrich their lives. Join us as we orbit together, breaking down barriers and forging bonds that transcend generations.
Link to Desktop Prototype
Link to Mobile Prototype
Meet the Team:
Kelsie Brouillette - Branding, Touchpoints, UX/UI
Emily Palau - Motion Graphics, Research, UX/UI
Amari Walker - Research, Touchpoints, UX/UI
BRANDING
What do we value?
Orbit values human connection. We are dedicated to making the process of interacting with and learning from people of all spans of generations easy, streamlined, and fun!
Brand Promise
At Orbit, we promise to help make the world a little less lonely. With our service, we hope to impact the loneliness epidemic and help those who are feeling isolated make new connections.
Brand Personality
With a colorful palette, a cutesy illustrative style, and a space theme, Orbit is inviting, relaxed, and fun.
What makes us different?
Unlike other message boards, Orbit has a focus on an in-person aspect. We want our users to meet and gather in-person and thus provide them with the ability to set up and plan events in their local area.
Connection: We facilitate meaningful intergenerational relationships by bringing together individuals of all ages based on shared interests.
Engagement: We encourage active participation through a variety of events, discussions, and activities that cater to diverse interests and foster continuous interaction.
Learning: We promote the exchange of knowledge and skills between generations, enabling users to learn from each other and grow together.
Brand Pillars
RESEARCH
A website that allows users to connect with other adults of all ages through shared interests and hobbies.
Who are we?
What do we do?
Provide a means for adults to discuss shared interests with other adults and set up in person or online events.
Orbit is the only online message board that has an emphasis on users meeting with and teaching other users through shared interests.
Onlyness statement
Why does it matter?
With a loneliness epidemic that has been exacerbated by the pandemic, it’s important for older adults to have a means to make new friends and connections.
We conducted a survey to gauge people's sentiments regarding loneliness, the significance of intergenerational connections, and their willingness to bridge the gap between younger and older ages. The survey garnered a total of 53 individuals participating and sharing their perspectives.
On a scale of 1-5, how important do you believe intergenerational relationships are?
Approximately 81% of surveyors felt that intergenerational relationships are important, indicating a significant potential user base for Orbit.
On a scale of 1-5, how much do you benefit from your interactions across generational lines?
The majority of respondents (77%) reported that they benefitted from intergenerational interactions. This underscores the importance of creating opportunities for these interactions, as they have a tangible positive effect on the lives of individuals.
Goals & Motivations
- Make connections and friendships with older adults.
- Find someone who can help ease her transition into adulthood.
Pain Points
- Not used to a solid support system.
- Feelings of loneliness, insecurity, and uncertainty about navigating adult responsibilities.
- Lacks a reliable mentor or confidant.
Age: 18
Lifestyle: Frugal & Cautious
Sarah, a foster child who is about to age out of the system, has started to get ready to enter the adult world. She seeks a connection with someone older who can provide the warmth, life lessons, and support reminiscent of a family member, offering a sense of belonging during this transitional period.
Meet Sarah.
Age: 22
Marital Status: Single
Occupation: International Student
Lifestyle: Lonely & Studious
Lorenzo, an international student, has started college in America. Now that he’s here, Lorenzo realizes it is hard to make connections in a culture that he is unfamiliar with. He finds himself homesick and seeking out things that remind him of home. Lorenzo seeks a way to connect to people from his home country in order to feel less homesick.
Meet Lorenzo.
Goals & Motivations
- Find people from his home country.
- Integrate into American culture while maintaining his cultural identity.
- Share his own cultural background with others.
Pain Points
- Unfamiliarity with American culture.
- Lack of in-person connections with people from his home country.
Age: 67
Marital Status: Widowed
Lifestyle: Socially Active but Emotionally Unfulfilled
Emma is a widow who lives alone in a friendly neighborhood. She has family, but they live out of state and can only visit during the summer and the holiday season. While she enjoys her occasional interactions with her neighbors, they are few and far between and she finds herself lonely. Emma needs a way to connect with people of all ages in her area.
Meet Emma.
Goals & Motivations
- Have more in-person interactions with people of all ages.
- Enrich her daily life with diverse interactions that provide both emotional support and a sense of belonging
Pain Points
- Loneliness due to loss of spouse and distance of family.
- Limited mobility due to age.
Empathy Map
