Vancouver Shares

Vancouver Shares is a concept for an application for sharing unused household goods, books, and other donations for those in need in a user's community

The Problem

People don’t have the extra space to hold on to their donation items but it’s difficult to know where to take them, and, to that end, what places will accept these items. It’s a pain to gather up donation items only to realize that the place isn’t open, or won’t accept the items one is looking to donate.

Why is this happening?

Don't know where to go
Lack of time
Lack of space

What can I do?

Share items quickly
Make donation simple
Communication and community engagement

The Solution

Make the process of donation more of a fun community building event.

We all have items at home that could use a second life, a new home, something we have too much of, or simply fell out of love with. Small community donation spot locations and reminders will help build awareness and a stronger sense of community.

Design Process

Discovery & Research

SWOT

To dive in deeper to understanding what the share system is like, a SWOT analysis is a simple step to get things started.

Value Proposition Canvas

In-depth Interviews

Interviews were conducted with 4 respondents to test a hypothesis, based my research, to learn more about the donation process for those who do it often, and live in Vancouver.

Hypothesis

The donation process is complicated and time consuming. Vancouverites do a lot of donating but find the process to be a barrier to entry.

I would prefer to donate things as they come up rather than storing it all somewhere.

“

Carol

I’d rather go anywhere other than Salvation Army.

“

Tammy

I often go late at night to a dumpster and leave my stuff. I make sure it’s in good condition and it’s usually gone the next day. I only leave items in good shape and hope someone else can use them.

“

Chelsie

Survey

I conducted a survey of 27 Vancouverites to explore donation habits and preferences

Insights

Persona

How Might We...

How might we encourage people to donate or share items more often to help those who need it, to build a sense of community, and keep things out of the landfill.