How can we build an inclusive community? — UX Case Study

The Challenge

In what ways can digital tools bring residents with different levels of engagement together to build an inclusive community?

In light of the pandemic caused by Covid-19, much of the connections we have and continue to make in the physical world have been transferred to the digital sphere. One of the issues that came to the forefront during this period is the importance of human connections and how they can be translated into the online world. Our perception and experience with human interactions have changed. Now, more than ever, establishing and maintaining human connections are central to our physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing.

Digital platforms have consolidated their status as crucial and flexible tools. As a team, how can we take it to the next level and make it more resilient and innovative with transparent data?

In the context of this project, Open Up intends to create a digital platform to act as a social net and support existing offline efforts to foster a strong community in the Middelland neighborhood in Rotterdam. Additionally, the project aims to be aligned with the following Sustainable Development Goals set by the United Nations:

• Goal 9: Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
• Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities
• Goal 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
• Goal 17: Partnership for the Goals