PSU Master Program
What do residents value most?
👀 About
I led a project with the PSU Business Master’s Program, where students conducted market and user research.
The goal was to identify which aspects of smart apartments residents valued most: cost savings or convenience.
I developed concept prototypes that emphasized the 2 directions, focusing on potential future experiences rather than current functionality.
Concept 1
Smart apartments that help you save money.
Concept 2
Smart apartments that help make life easier.
⛳ Outcome
Renters are not not willing to pay a 10% rent premium for smart apartments. While convenience and safety remain the strongest value drivers (lights, thermostats, smart locks, cameras), residents view smart home features as a “nice-to-have” rather than essential.
Key Insights
Convenience and security are most valued.
No single “killer feature” emerged to justify higher rent.
Data privacy and landlord mistrust were strong concerns.
Education, support, and device flexibility are needed to improve adoption.
More R&D Projects