“We explore how innovative financial planning apps can bridge the accessibility gap”
What does the study examine?
The paper explores how the new financial app Seasn, based on scientific research developed for pension planning, can engage more people with their pensions. The app has already been launched in Germany, and the Dutch version is expected to go live in 2026. The authors refer to relevant studies and surveys showing that Seasn’s features lead to a significant increase in adoption and use compared with similar apps. The distinguishing features examined include social features through a twin avatar, the absence of mandatory entry of personal data, and scenarios for unforeseen events that affect pensions.
What are the most important findings?
The study outlines the main barriers to the adoption of financial apps for pension planning and shows how Seasn tries to overcome them. The biggest issue is that people are reluctant to use apps that demand too much attention. Seasn addresses this by introducing game-like elements such as a twin avatar. A second barrier is that pensions are often seen as something far in the future. Seasn tackles this with interactive life scenarios that make the future feel closer. Finally, their impact is summarized in a single clear metric: expected net income at retirement, which makes the outcome more concrete.
What are the implications?
- Individuals are taking on increasing responsibility for their pensions, but many are still unprepared. This underscores the need for accessible financial planning, including apps like Seasn. This is especially relevant given uncertainty about pension payouts and the growing complexity of financial products.
- The free pension-planning app offers a practical alternative to, for example, financial advice, that provides users with accessible support.