Collaborative Mapping
1
Discovery
This was a multi-team design research project partnering with medical professionals and community organizations looking at ways to support the disability community throughout Central New York.
Early in our research, we found that there were numerous vibrant community resources in the region, including adaptive sports and assistive technology sharing programs. However, these resources were not well connected or linked to each other. To address this, the project focused on utilizing a combination of physical and digital visualization and storytelling methods. These methods helped us assess the current resources available for utilization by the community.
2
Ideation
To start, we mapped all available community resources on both physical and digital maps throughout the studio.
Brief
This helped us assess the availability of resources and how we can utilize them later in the design process to enhance community engagement. We also prototyped additional environmental features that help convey the connection of these resources within the environment. Take a look at the early prototype for an adaptive basketball league that connects to the wider adaptive sports in the area.
3
Prototyping & testing
Our prototypes included an immersive environment exhibited at the Fit-IN conference, where leading inclusive design experts gave us feedback on our ideas.
I developed a custom application for data collection within the community. This application allowed for the collection of data on environmental hazards and resources, with the ability to upload real-time location and multiple data points. In addition to this we created an adaptive video game that was modeled after an actual community park in the area. I was responsible for the installation and all physical components of the game. One of the notable contributions I made was the creation of an adaptive controller that could be used by our wheelchair user co-designers.
4
Design Output
This project included outputting a community presentation that engaged multiple healthcare organizations, community representatives, and community organizers.
The project is currently in the process of submitting grant proposals to secure funding for further development of the application and video game. This will involve building upon the progress made in the early iterations to incorporate valuable community input and create higher fidelity prototypes.
5
discussion
This was a truly unique experience and the most successful project I have been a part of in terms of community engagement. We collaborated not only with users but also with organizations and community leaders in our design work, a standard I will strive to maintain whenever possible.
Read the recent article on Design Led No Code recently published in the Design Management Institute Review.
Article (PDF)