HUMANITY-CENTERED DESIGN
At Studio WAC, we use humanity-centered design, a methodology that considers people’s needs as individuals and societies facing complex, deep-rooted problems. As a result, we address the correct issues in partnership with our clients to conduct systems analyses and create small, simple interventions.
Given the scale and complexity of our societal issues, design alone can’t solve societal problems; however, our collective impact usually consists of incremental contributions. To understand how our design work might impact, we use humanity-centered methods to identify how design decisions might affect more significant concerns beyond our immediate user—issues of sustainability, inclusivity, accessibility, representation, and more.
Our research-based design methodologies help us build on strengths and resilience rather than looking only at what is wrong. We design empathy for the people we work with and create sustainable solutions to meet their long-term business needs. When we work together in this way, we can use design to enact meaningful change.
Humanity-centered design is the ultimate challenge for our industry because it considers the needs of people not as individuals, but as societies with complex and deep rooted problems.
It is up to designers to use 21st-century design principles to find solutions that will improve people’s lives globally. Design thinking starts with understanding the root cause of a problem and then working backward to find a creative solution that meets the needs of all stakeholders. It is an iterative process that requires constant stakeholder feedback and refinement, but the result is worth it when we can positively impact the lives of people around the world.
SUSTAINABILITY
We help businesses become future-ready through sustainable design practices.
Businesses are under pressure to adopt sustainable practices as the world becomes increasingly aware of the need to protect our environment. Yet, while sustainability is now a core element of business strategy, it can be easy to feel discouraged by the scale of the task. However, it’s important to remember that any challenge presents new opportunities. And when it comes to sustainability, there are many ways that businesses can positively impact.
One of the most effective ways to do this is through sustainable design—the practice of designing products and services that minimize negative environmental impact. Here at Studio WAC, we help our clients consider a product’s or service’s entire lifecycle, from conception to disposal. But sustainable design is more than just making “green” products; it’s about creating environmentally sound, economically viable, and socially responsible solutions.
Humanity has always been at the center of our actions and thoughts. Every decision we make is based on how it will affect us as individuals. However, this way of thinking is no longer sustainable. We live in an interconnected world; what happens in one part of the world can have a ripple effect around the globe. As a result, we need to start thinking about solutions centered on humanity as a whole instead of just individuals. Only by working together can we create livable futures for all.
Whether we think about how we move around or the products we make, sustainability is a critical driver in all our projects. We engage with businesses and organizations ready to make a responsible impact on people and the planet. By working with such companies, we can help to create a more sustainable future for everyone. As the world becomes increasingly aware of the need to protect our environment, businesses are under pressure to change their practices and become more sustainable. However, many companies are unsure of where to start.
Becoming future-ready means looking at your business model, products, and services and redesigning them with sustainability in mind.
We can help you develop innovative solutions to transform these challenges into new opportunities by identifying the areas where your company needs to improve. Sustainability is no longer a luxury in today’s competitive marketplace—it’s a necessity. So, switching to sustainable practices will help protect the environment, giving you a competitive advantage.
In addition, considering the environmental impacts of a product or service at every stage of its development, we can often find opportunities to reduce waste, conserve resources, and save money. That’s why sustainable design is such an essential part of our business—and something we’re passionate about when it comes to helping our clients. From composting to using eco-friendly inks for our printers or purchasing raw materials locally, plenty of small changes can make a big difference. Engaging with businesses and organizations committed to sustainability is one way to help make a positive impact. We are proud to partner with such companies to help make our community and the world better.
So contact us if you’re looking for ways to make your business more sustainable. We’d be happy to help you find creative and environmentally sound solutions for your business.
ACCESSIBILITY
At Studio WAC, we create accessible websites to make the Web a better place for everyone that depends on it.
The Internet is a vital resource in all aspects of life, used for education, employment, government, commerce, health care, recreation, and much more. Because of its importance, the Web must be accessible to everyone, regardless of ability. Furthermore, access to information and communication technologies, including the Web, is a fundamental human right enshrined in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UN CRPD).
Universal design principles are necessary to make the Web accessible to as many people as possible. Making the Web accessible ensures everyone has equal access to information and opportunities.
Traditional media such as print, audio, and video often present barriers to accessibility. However, the Web offers a unique opportunity to overcome these obstacles. People with disabilities can easily access information and communication through web technologies. In addition, the Web can provide a level of interactivity that is impossible with other media. As a result, the Web presents a powerful tool for people with disabilities to overcome the barriers to accessibility.
Accessibility is often considered an issue that primarily affects people with disabilities or is a matter of convenience or compliance. Still, it is also an important issue of social justice. Accessibility is essential for everyone, as it helps to ensure social inclusion. For example, accessibility supports are critical for older people, who may need assistance to stay independent. In rural areas, accessibility measures can help connect isolated communities and provide vital services.
In developing countries, accessibility infrastructure can help close the digital divide and give everyone a fair chance at success. Inclusivity is a founding principle of many societies, and accessibility is essential to achieving it. We can create a more equitable world by ensuring that everyone can participate fully in social and economic life.
When designing your products and services, it is essential to consider all potential customers in today’s competitive marketplace. Making your products and services accessible can enhance your brand, drive innovation, and extend your market reach. In addition, making your offerings accessible to everyone can give you a significant advantage over your competitors.
When done right, accessible design can benefit everyone, regardless of ability or circumstance.
There are many ways to make a website more accessible. For example, as designers, we use clear and straightforward language, create easy-to-understand navigation, and provide alternate versions of content (such as audio or video). These efforts make it easier for people with disabilities to access websites, but they also improve the overall user experience for everyone.
Many laws and guidelines require or recommend web accessibility, such as the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the W3C’s own Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG). At Studio WAC, we are committed to providing our clients with design solutions that consider all these. We believe accessible websites comply with the law and result in a better overall experience for all users. Therefore, we are helping to make the Web more accessible to benefit everyone. So why not make your business case for accessibility today? You may be surprised by the results. Get in touch with us!
