01 / THE BLUEPRINT
The problem to investigate
People sharing a home may discover incompatible expectations only after moving in. Investigate the recurring misunderstandings in one housing context without assuming that a matching algorithm can judge personal compatibility.
02 / THE BLUEPRINT
A possible solution
Offer a structured discussion worksheet that records agreed routines and open questions. Keep it focused on household operations, with reminders to revisit decisions rather than assigning people a compatibility score.
03 / THE BLUEPRINT
Start without an app
A facilitated conversation and a printed checklist may be the complete service. Test whether neutral prompts help more than a private chat group or an existing housing adviser’s materials.
04 / THE BLUEPRINT
Technology that could help
A simple browser form could produce a printable summary without storing names or responses on a server. Optional shared editing would require clear access controls and a straightforward way to revoke access.
05 / THE BLUEPRINT
Your first experiment
- Ask a housing adviser to identify common operational misunderstandings.
- Draft ten neutral prompts using fictional households.
- Have volunteers test whether the worksheet supports a respectful discussion.
- Revise confusing or intrusive questions before trying a digital version.
06 / THE BLUEPRINT
People, resources and cost drivers
You need facilitation skills, accessible writing and a local housing support partner. Translation, support and user testing are likely costs. A lightweight worksheet avoids much of the cost of a matching marketplace.
07 / THE BLUEPRINT
What to validate — and when to stop
Validate that users understand the summary as a discussion aid. Remove prompts that encourage pressure or discriminatory selection. Stop if participants feel compelled to disclose personal information unrelated to household routines.
08 / HYPOTHESIS TO TEST
Potential impact and how to measure it
Test whether users identify unresolved practical questions and remember agreed responsibilities. Follow-up satisfaction may be informative, but it would not demonstrate that the tool prevents housing conflict or improves tenancy outcomes.
09 / THE BLUEPRINT
Risks and safeguards
Avoid collecting sensitive traits or ranking applicants. This is not a tenancy contract or legal advice. People facing intimidation need an appropriate support route, not another negotiation exercise.
10 / THE BLUEPRINT
Who might pay or maintain it
Student services or housing organisations might provide it as a free resource. A paid facilitation service would need trained people and clear boundaries. Keep the basic worksheet available without a compulsory account.