Arash Nouri / IXDS 2 / Winter 2023

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Table of contents

Project Statement

<aside> 🗒️ Research methods: expert interviews, ethnography, analogous experiences, empathy experiences Summary of findings:

• Despite multiple failed attempts at introducing novel assistive devices, many tech-savvy users are still keen to stay updated and try out new products
• Existing initiatives like Makers Making Change demonstrate an existing need from users + opportunities for design intervention where this type of project can thrive
• Function & form tie in together to produce a product that can be perceived as well-designed by both sighted & blind users </aside>

Primary research conducted in IXDS 1 & 2 has shown that there are opportunities within this problem space as a result of user needs not being met.

The goal is to design a product that is simultaneously attractive to sighted and blind users, with an emphasis on noticeable functionality & positive feedback to the UX of the device

Cost and availability are the two core, recurring issues voiced by research participants. Many of them are aware of existing or failed visual aids that they were hoping to try out, but faced barriers due to high costs or access to the technology.

Given the continued enthusiasm of research participants for novel assistive devices, I believe there is a solid opportunity for the creation of a low-weight, low-cost, easy-to-use assistive device that users can adapt to their needs based on their budget and desired functionality.

There are existing initiatives like Makers Making Change that demonstrate a viable business plan for a broader range of services revolving around the same idea. These initiatives show that there is demand for solutions like this, even if they’re not overtly declared. They also demonstrate potential future pathways for this project where it could be incorporated into existing initiatives or used to create a new one.

<aside> 📝 Arash Nouri, Computation Studio, Project 2A, Winter 2023

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I am designing a modular system of devices [form] that will enable visually-impaired people [users] to confidently navigate the ever-changing world around them. By augmenting the function of their canes to process more information as they see fit [function], they will be able to gain a more in-depth understanding of their surroundings and overcome barriers that impede their quality of life [purpose].

<aside> 📝 Arash Nouri, IXDS 2, Project 1, Winter 2023

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The second version of the project statement (as used in the previous project) still accurately describes the users, form, function, purpose, scope, & goals of this project. There’s no need to chance any aspects of it.

User Definition

<aside> 🗒️ Research methods: ethnography, observational research, empathy experiences, field research Summary of findings:

• Audience is people with complete or near-complete vision loss who have existing experience with assistive devices, especially mobility canes
• Narrower focus can produce more insightful feedback during consultation and testing as this group can draw on a larger pool of experiences and knowledge
• Sighted users are still a valuable group as they can supplement user tests with additional data, although this data should be marked separately as to not muddy test results </aside>