Overview
Thesis Collaboration with Microsoft Research ( Ludic Design )
Strategy, Research, Game Design & Development
System Designer (Me), Product Designer
5 Months (Jan 2022 - June 2022)
Research, Analysis, Ideation, Development, User Testing, System Maps
The problem
In our exclusive world, insensitively designed spaces, mindsets and systems hinder the independence and development of people with disabilities (PWDs). This makes access to play-based learning even more challenging for them, despite its essential role in cognitive stimulation.
Solution
Project Rooh is an initiative that creates inclusive and playful spaces and makes play more rewarding by adding monetary benefits. It curates multi-level play sessions for organizations and Specials Schools that work with or for PWDs.
Client
Ludic Design for Accessibility (LDA) by Microsoft Research
Ludic Design for Accessibility (LDA) is a design methodology that puts play and playfulness at the center of all assistive technology design and use. PWDs face a lot of difficulty in accessing play based learning considering the kind of accessibility and assistance they require.
Jump to Designs
Problem
The problem of disability inclusion is deeply layered and global
1.3 billion people around the globe
Live with some form of disability, yet face unmet needs for dignity, security, and employment. ( WHO )
70% of people with disabilities
Report facing discrimination, with many employers believing they are less capable of contributing to the workforce. ( NCPEDP )
3% of physical or recreational games
Are specifically designed or adapted for individuals with disabilities. ( UNESCO )
user
Designing With and For the Makers
Beneficiaries (PWDs)
Goals: The makers in are individuals with diverse abilities and unique strengths who face systemic barriers due to insensitively designed spaces, systems, and societal mindsets.
Pain Points: The lack of inclusive systems remain a significant hurdle, as does the general lack of awareness about their needs and abilities.
Interests: Their interests lie in creative activities like painting and stitching, which provide both joy and a sense of achievement.
Research Question
Uncovering the Culture of Play and Work for PWDs
Toolkit
Research (2.5 Months)
Secondary Research
Primary Research: 7 sessions spread across 4 nonprofits
Expert Interview: 4 nonprofit founders and 5 professionals
Contextual Inquiry: Observed participant behavior and environments
Ideation and Development (2.5 Months)
Ideation Workshops: 6 sessions at 3 nonprofits
Prototyping: Paper Prototype
Development: 2 Games (Alankar and Nirman)
User Testing: 2 sessions
Supporting Maps
User Flow, Journey Map, System Blueprint, PESTEL Analysis, SWOT Analysis, Business Model Canvas
Exploring
Discovering play: Understanding what play means for diverse individuals.
I conducted hands-on play sessions to understand the diverse dimensions of play. This exploration revealed that play means something different to everyone—like some find joy in following structured rules, while others thrive under the excitement of time constraints. These observations underscored a crucial realization: designing a system that ensures inclusivity and adaptability is essential to create engaging experiences for all.
Primary Research
Engaging with Users in Real Contexts
This process unfolded over 2 visits: the first visit was focused on closely observing the environment and capturing crucial details, and the second visit involved conducting interviews with NGO employees and beneficiaries, leading to a deeper understanding of their needs and experiences.
Key Finding
Empowerment Through Structure and Sensory Play + Growth Through Measurable Progress
What the beneficiaries liked
Independence: Beneficiaries with disabilities thrive when given responsibility and opportunities for independence.
Routine & Sensory Engagement: Beneficiaries benefit from structured routines and enjoy sensory-based activities like texture play.
Strategies used by the NGOs to track growth
Progress Tracking: Individual Education Plans (IEP) track the development of each beneficiary.
Competency Mapping: Evaluates and enhances skills through competency mapping for targeted growth.
How might we create an evolving and playful system with a profitable workspace for people with disabilities and the interested stakeholders in the current Indian context of urban cities?
Ideation And Prototyping
Co-Creating with the Users
Failure
Not Adaptable Enough
The initial design of the game lacked adaptability, making it difficult to cater to a diverse range of users. This highlighted the need for a more inclusive approach. We initially collaborated with lower-middle-class individuals with physical disabilities, aiming to tailor the product to their unique skills and interests. However, financial constraints forced many participants to leave after just a few sessions. This setback served as a wake-up call: to be truly inclusive, the design must accommodate diverse needs rather than focusing on specific disabilities.
Final Design
Adaptable System of Project Rooh
Project Rooh is an initiative that creates inclusive and playful spaces and makes play more rewarding by adding monetary benefits. It curates multi-level play sessions for organizations and Specials Schools that work with or for PWDs. The system has 2 core games, Alankar: Mark-making & Patch making and Nirman: Creating patterns through play.
Games
The games that adapt to all users needs and comfort levels.
By-Product
A game board becoming a product that showcases the creativity of the beneficiaries
The Rooh gender-neutral handbags are the outcome of inclusive and playful interactions with the system games, Alankar and Nirman. Designed with accessibility in mind, these bags feature wheelchair compatibility, zip-free closures for ease of use, and spacious interiors with high-contrast lining. By generating income for the beneficiaries, these bags empower individuals with disabilities, promoting financial independence and showcasing the value of diverse creations.
Backend
App Support for Remote Participation
User Testing
Testing To Make It Adaptable
Constant testing was integral to ensuring the system's adaptability. Multiple sessions provided valuable insights, allowing the team to continuously refine and adjust the design to meet diverse needs, making the system more inclusive and effective. This iterative process ensured that the final product was truly accessible and functional for all users.
Approach
Accessibility-First Approach
The Rooh Project was designed with an accessibility-first approach, ensuring inclusive experiences for all users. In the games, high-contrast patches made from sustainable fabric improve visual accessibility while reducing waste. Custom-designed game blocks with adaptive handles ensure that players with varying motor abilities can fully participate, fostering inclusivity and engagement.
Takeaway
Designing for True Inclusion – Accessibility is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Constant iteration and user engagement were essential in ensuring Project Rooh was truly adaptable for diverse needs.
The Power of Play in Learning – Play is not just a leisure activity but a powerful tool for cognitive development, creativity, and social interaction, especially for people with disabilities.
More
1. Documentation Book: View the full process
