initial research findings

My initial research is leading me in the direction of inclusive design for the 'gray market', specifically those with eyesight problems. I think this is an area where i can possibly make a difference to the awareness of the public and aid those currently excluded.

I have been especially influenced by the work by the students contributed over the past years in the Royal College of Art Helen Hamlyn Research Associates Programme. Two students over the past years have created work that i think have made significant developments in the increasing problem of inclusivity in design. Primarily Natasha Frensch created a typeface to aid those with dyslexia to read more proficiently, this strikes right at the heart of the problem, combatting the parts of typography that people with dyslexia have problems with, for example, b and d, m and n, p and q. She came up with a solution that she tested and that was successful. Gero Grundman, attempted to tackle the problem of deteriorating sight in older people - similar to the avenue that i intend to take - by encouraging them to get checked out as soon as problems begin to arise. He wanted to tackle the problem at the beginning where people are most likely to be in denial, persuasion was an instant tool. Although i do not think some of his ideas would be successful or persuasive enough, it was interesting to see how he approached the problem of trying to advertise to people who may not be able to see the advertisements properly. By using bold colours, large type, and recognisable features (number plate) that were themselves integrated into the campaign, even a sight-impaired person would have the chance of understanding the concept, however inadvertently. The tactile qualities of Japanese braile and the 'c' system clothing system have also influenced me to consider using a 'hands-on' approach.

After looking at my research i decided that my initial idea of creating advertising that would include those with sight problems, was in itself short sighted. Do we, as individuals, feel the need to be advertised to? Or is it just a way for the hundreds of companies, shops and brands to differentiate and prove themselves to us. I realised that a visually impaired person would not really be bothered about the latest Guinness advert, when they find it a struggle to put on colour coordinated clothes or recognise their families. It is the most simple adaptions that will give them the greatest pleasure and ease of life.