iSchool Capstone

Connecting Communities: User Research and Redesign of a Tool for Local Broadband Planning

Project tags:

equity & inclusion

information behavior & user research

ux & interaction design

Project poster

We redesigned a tool, called the Broadband Connectivity Assessment, which supports advocacy for high-speed internet access in underserved communities in the US. We conducted user research and interviewed participants who piloted of a beta version of the tool. While responses were overwhelmingly positive, there were challenges which made the tool difficult to use. We offer solutions through a redesign of the user experience and architecture of the tool. Because the needs of participants vary, our final design recommendations focus on creating a tool that is flexible and can be adapted to the needs of any community.

Project participants:

Ashley Lindsey

MSIM

Nina Showell

MSIM