Product
Web application design
My Role
Literature Review, Existing Tools Analysis, Concept Design, User Testing
Timeline
1.5 Year - Masters Thesis Research Project
Introduction
I designed D-DEM, an interactive web-based platform, to enhance public participation in built environment design. The platform empowers people who's lives will be impacted by new developments to raise their voice in transparent and accesible plateform.
Traditional public engagement methods.
Traditional public engagement methods, like town hall meetings, open houses, and surveys, gather public feedback and involve communities in decisions. While useful, they can be inaccessible to some, highlighting the need for improved approaches.
Problem
After extensive literature review and analysis of existing methods, we created major themes around the existing problems in public engagement.
Goal
For this research we specified four major goals which were elicited from the existing literature and tools review.
My Approach
We adopted a tool development approach for this problem. We started by reviewing existing research to find gaps in public engagement methods, which helped shape the Di-Dem framework. Next, we analyzed what both experts and everyday users needed from the platform. Based on these insights, we designed low-friendly prototypes, starting with simple sketches and improving them through user feedback. We then built the platform step-by-step, adding features like interactive visuals, 3D models, and feedback tools. Finally, we tested the system with real users and analyzed their feedback to see how well it supported data-driven decisions and encouraged inclusive participation.
Early Ideation
During the ideation phase, I explored how to simplify complex design data for non-specialist stakeholders. I created low-fidelity sketches and wireframes, prioritizing features like interactive 3D models, performance data visualizations, and discussion forums. These early iterations emphasized making the interface intuitive and engaging, ensuring stakeholders could interact with the platform effortlessly.
Initial Test Results
We conducted an initial user study with 7 participants to evaluate our medium-fidelity prototype. Participants were asked to complete tasks, such as: selecting the best option among the provided alternatives using the interface, and share their feedback on the conceptual workflow. The study revealed several areas for improvement:
Lack of Interactivity in Visualizations
Users wanted the ability to interact with data visualizations. Static visuals limited their exploration and understanding of the data.
Limited 2D Design
Users wanted the ability to interact with data visualizations. Static visuals limited their exploration and understanding of the data.
Restrictive Comments
The comment section offered limited input options. Users found it difficult to express detailed feedback effectively.
Annotations on Data Visualization
Participants suggested features like marking and annotations. These would support more precise, data-driven discussions.
Visual Comparison of Alternatives
There was no clear way to compare design alternatives visually. Users wanted side-by-side data visualizations for easy comparison.
Context Understanding Needed
Users requested features to understand the real-world context. This would help them evaluate the design's impact more effectively.
Prototype
Based on the feedback from the initial user study, we refined our prototype to create a high-fidelity version. The final design included three main interfaces - Project Browser, Individual Review Interface, and Design Comparison Interface
Prototype Components
Explore form in 2D/3D
Form Exploration in 2D/3D allows users to interact with and examine the shape, structure, and spatial organization of design alternatives, providing a comprehensive understanding of their visual and functional aspects.
Explore form in AR
Form Exploration in AR (Augmented Reality) allows users to visualize and interact with design alternatives in a real-world environment, enhancing their understanding of how the design fits within its context.
Switch between multiple visualizations to explore data
Easily explore data for each design alternative through a variety of visualizations. Switch between different visualization types to find the one that suits you best. Additionally, filter the data based on your personal interests and specific factors to focus on what matters most to you.
Explore design in real context (In-Situ)
See how each design alternative fits within its surroundings in 3D. This helps you visualize the design’s impact on the urban environment and better understand its context.
Comment, like and reply to others feedback
Comment, like, and reply to others' feedback to actively participate in discussions and share your thoughts on design alternatives.
Annotate on data visualizations
Add notes and comments directly on data visualizations to highlight key insights, share observations, and support your feedback.
Compare options side by side in 3D/2D
View and compare design alternatives side by side in both 3D and 2D to easily evaluate differences in form, layout, and context.
Compare options with interactive visualizations
Analyze design alternatives using interactive visualizations that allow you to explore, compare, and understand key differences in data and performance.
Usability test
I conducted a mixed-method user study with 20 participants to evaluate D-DEM. Participants engaged with the prototype and shared feedback on usability, utility, and adaptability using the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) framework. The findings revealed that participants appreciated the ease of use and interactive features, but also highlighted areas for improvement, which informed subsequent iterations.
Usability Testing Results
Thematic Analysis Results
I analysed the responses provided by the participants in interview. We created themes and subthemes for the interview responses. Following are the themes emerged after thematic analysis.
Future Work
Introduce gamification for increased motivation for participation
Feedback reporting features for designers or responsible parties
Support explanation of design data through AI Chatbot
Integration of VR/AR for immersive experience
