Understanding Platform Fatigue and Purpose

Platform fatigue stems not just from the number of platforms but from platforms that don’t deliver clear, tangible benefits to the user. For Gen Z students, who typically have dozens of apps on their phones, every app serves a specific need, and the decision to engage is often based on how well each app addresses a particular pain point. Universities should focus on the unique value each platform provides, not merely its presence. Unsure if a platform is valuable? Just ask students on campus—it can quickly reveal if a platform is meeting real needs or adding to the noise.

Why Targeted Platforms Outperform All-in-One Solutions

Trying to consolidate all digital needs into one comprehensive platform may seem logical at first, but it often leads to compromised quality. A powerful example is the case of Blackboard, which tried to integrate social networking features into an educational platform, only to find it didn’t serve either function particularly well. Instead, purpose-driven platforms maximize quality by focusing on a single area of the student experience.

For instance, at Goin', we've chosen to focus on community building; boosting the pre-arrvial student journey through authentic friendships—a clear student need that has led to over 2 million monthly messages across our communities. This targeted approach ensures that students build genuine connections, enhancing their university experience from the very start.

The Importance of Relatable, Convenient Access for Gen Z

For Gen Z, convenience and accessibility are big wins. They expect seamless login experiences, ideally with options they already use in daily life, such as Apple Face ID, Google login, or social media credentials. Familiar login options eliminate friction in accessing the platform, allowing students to engage without the barrier of creating yet another username and password combination. Offering familiar, flexible login options isn’t a minor detail—it’s a must-have for platforms catering to today’s students.

Why Focus Matters: Solving Specific Needs

With a clear focus, platforms like Goin' become essential tools that fit seamlessly into students’ lives, providing value exactly where it’s needed without distraction. This clarity of purpose and direct addressing of pain points not only maintains students' interest but also promotes consistent usage.

A shortcut universities can use to gauge whether a platform will resonate with students is to dive into track records and current engagement numbers. High engagement numbers and a solid track record indicate a platform's appeal to its target audience and its effectiveness in meeting real student needs. 

A Unified Approach Through Complementary Platforms

While platform fatigue is a real concern, the strategic use of complementary platforms can actually enhance the student journey by offering purpose-driven solutions. By carefully selecting a few core platforms that each serve specific needs, universities can build a digital ecosystem that provides support across the student experience without overwhelming them. This approach encourages students to interact with platforms that matter, fostering engagement and loyalty over time.

In short, the key isn’t about minimizing platforms at all costs but about ensuring each platform in use delivers value and solves a clear need. By focusing on targeted, well-integrated platforms with easy access, universities can create a digital experience that aligns with Gen Z’s preferences and needs, supporting students without overwhelming them.

By focusing heavily on community, Goin' has achieved impressive results, with millions of connections and monthly messages. If you'd like to learn more about how Goin' has brought a better student experience across more than 90 insitutitons, feel free to reach out to us or leave your details in the form below.