Overview
Useno started as an idea to help people build real connections in a new city, pairing newcomers and travelers with locals around shared interests instead of one-off paid tours. This case study covers the early validation work, the pivot in direction, and what came out of testing the concept in the real world.
Problem
Moving to or visiting a new city can be isolating. Most platforms focus on transactional experiences, not lasting connections, so people leave a city without the relationships that would make them want to come back or stay engaged with it.
Solution
We built a lightweight MVP centered on small, interest based meetups, low pressure in person gatherings designed to test whether shared interest connection (not transactional tours) was the real unlock. Instead of building a full marketplace upfront, we validated demand through direct outreach and hands on event coordination.
Role
Led the concept from initial research through MVP execution, including idea validation conversations, defining the meetup format, coordinating logistics, and gathering feedback to inform the next iteration.
Outcome
Ran 5 successful MVP meetups, each validating real demand for interest based local connection. Attendees consistently said they wanted to stay in touch beyond the event, confirming the relationship over transaction thesis. These sessions also surfaced key insights on format, group size, and matching criteria for a future product direction.
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