17 Dots
UX design for visually impaired
Accessible fashion
About 17 dots
17 Dots is a project that focusses on accessibility in fashion. It combines physical touch with visual and audio interfaces. The process was supported by blind author, educator and actress Leona Godin.
My Role
Research lead, Product and UX/UI design. My colleague Jim and I worked on the tag design closely with our developer Jake for on the tech side.
Timeframe
Project was conducted 2019.
“There are many blind and visually impaired people like me, who like to fight stereo types. But shopping can be a challenge...”
— Leona Godin, blind author, educator and fashion lover
A clothing tag with braille?
Our initial idea was to create a permanent clothing tag. It would help identify color, size, pattern and washing instructions. However, we soon learned we were not on the right track yet.
Yes, But…
Lack of Product Info
Most tags are written in small font sizes and have no tactile information.
How can we make information more accessible through tactility and digital systems?
More Tactility
Many visually impaired can only read basic braille and common words. However, it helps with the quick identification of locations, objects, etc.
Difficult Identification
Identifying color/size etc. can be a challenge, not just in stores, but also at home!
How can we create a permanent solution from retail to everyday life and wear?
Use of Smartphones
The smartphone is already as steady companion in the life of many. Preinstalled programs allow their user to shop online, however, online shops information is sparse and an in-store experience is not given.
Lack of Self expression
Self expression in fashion is important and its value often overlooked.
How can we create a system that is functional, but stylish and desireable as well?
Build Independence
A sense of independence is what we want to achieve. Being able to go into a store alone (!) and not have to ask for help is more important than any other aspect.
Tactile tag + NFC chip + App
Multi-layer UX
The system consists of a permanent braille tag for clothing with an embedded NFC chip and a corresponding app. The tag holds both tactile and digital information and triggers the app to read out all clothing details.
Layer one: The visual interface
Layer two: The audio and sensory interface
