Portfolio
NXTNET: Designing a Unified Mobility Experience for Dutch Youth
Project Type: Product Design Engineering HvA, Value Proposition & Service Design
Grade: 10/10
Project summary
NXTNET is a mobility concept I designed to solve a real problem: public transport in the Netherlands is expensive and fragmented for young people, especially since NS removed youth day tickets. I created a unified digital day pass that works across all transport operators, supported by smart route planning, gamification, group travel, and 24/7 AI support.
 
I validated the concept through user testing with 12–24‑year‑olds, created learning cards, and developed both the value proposition and the business model. The project received a 10/10.

https://deannxtnet.wordpress.com/
Context
Public transport in the Netherlands is expensive for young people, and the national railway company (NS) discontinued youth day tickets. This created a gap in the market: young travelers (12–24) want affordable, simple, and flexible mobility—but the current system is fragmented, confusing, and costly.
From this challenge, I designed NXTNET, an all‑in‑one mobility platform offering a single youth day pass for all Dutch public transport (train, bus, tram, metro), supported by smart technology, gamification, and a seamless digital experience
Objective
To design a value proposition and service concept that simplifies public transport for young people, reduces cost barriers, and improves the overall travel experience.

My Role
- Value Proposition Designer
- UX & Service Concept Developer
- Researcher (User Testing & Learning Cards)
- Business Model Developer

The Concept
NXTNET introduces a single digital day pass that works across all Dutch public transport operators.
As stated in the document:
 
“With the NXTNET All-in Youth Day Pass, you can travel on all public transport in the Netherlands: train, bus, tram, and metro.”

The system integrates route planning, payment, ticketing, and customer support into one platform.
Key Features:
- One ticket for all transport modes
- Automatic refund if the ticket is not fully used
- 24/7 AI chatbot support
- Group ticketing for friends
- Gamification & rewards
- Dynamic route planning (fastest or cheapest)



User Research & Insights
I conducted qualitative testing with 15–20 participants aged 12–24.
A key insight from the document:
“Young people want immediate help… ‘Can I just chat then? That would be better.’”

Other insights included:
- Strong desire for group travel solutions
- Motivation through rewards and discounts
- Need for simplicity and no hidden costs
- Preference for digital-first support
These insights directly shaped the final value proposition
Business Model
I developed a full Business Model Canvas, including:
- Freemium model for extra features
- Partnerships with transport operators
- Revenue from day passes, group tickets, and in‑app promotions
- Loyalty and discount partnerships with youth brands
Impact & SDG Alignment
NXTNET contributes to:
SDG 9 : Industry, Innovation & Infrastructure
By digitally connecting multiple transport operators into one unified platform.
SDG 11 : Sustainable Cities & Communities
By encouraging young people to choose public transport over cars or scooters.