At DECODE we always disliked the terms generation X and generation Y. We thought members of these generations could think of something better. When working on Chips and Pop , we hosted a series of consultations and discussions with our DECODER Network about what to call these generations. Our advisory group suggested the name "Nexus" to replace generation X. Nexus means bridge, link, and connect -- an apt name for a generation that connects ages and other generations. For generation Y, DECODERS suggested "Velox." Velox is Latin for quickness and speed, key attributes of the generation born in the Information Age.

Nexus (aka Generation X)
Born between the mid 1960s and mid 1970s, Nexus consists five million Canadians born during a continent-wide baby bust. The oldest members of this generation have assumed the responsibilities of adulthood. Younger Nexus members are starting to act their age, but like Velox, they try to delay the onset of adulthood.
Nexus formative experience: Population explosion, AIDS, the personal computer, e-mail, the World Wide Web, the fall of the Berlin Wall, the end of the Cold War, OJ Simpson, Rwanda, Kurt Cobain's suicide, Live Aid, the 50-channel universe, the VCR.

Velox (aka Generation Y, the Millenials, the Net Generation)
Born after the late 1970s, this is a large generation that rivals the Baby Boom in size and importance. The oldest members of the generation are establishing their careers, but compared to their parents, they are taking longer to get married, have children, and buy houses.
Velox formative experiences: Globalization, 9/11, Terrorism, the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, Instant Messaging, Cell phones, Text Messaging, Blogs, File Sharing, the Columbine Massacre, Rave Culture, Indie Chic, the 100 channel universe, TIVO.