Supermarket Navigation Accessibility
How to assist people with cognitive disabilities access a supermarket, which most people take for granted.
How to assist people with cognitive disabilities access a supermarket, which most people take for granted.
We applied the Double Diamond framework throughout our design process to create a product that is tailored to users' needs. The convergent and divergent approach enables us to synthesise complex ideas.
Our research combined both qualitative and quantitative methods to build a well-rounded understanding of accessibility challenges in supermarket environments. We focused particularly on individuals with cognitive and learning disabilities—such as ADHD, dyslexia, and ASD—while also drawing on broader insights from those with visual, auditory, and physical impairments. Through surveys, interviews, and contextual observation, we identified key frustrations—like confusing store layouts, noted by 64% of participants. By mapping our findings using an affinity diagram, we were able to surface common pain points and highlight design opportunities for more inclusive, user-friendly supermarket experiences.
We synthesised our user research findings into three key insights.
Individuals with Cognitive Learning Disabilities, such as Dyslexia, ADHD, and ASD, face significant challenges in navigating supermarket environments due to a lack of universally accessible design.
Following several fast-paced ideation rounds aimed at generating diverse and creative solutions, we used a Decision Matrix to evaluate and refine our ideas. This tool helped us assess concepts against key criteria—including navigation, communication, and distraction minimisation—directly tied to our research insights. We also considered other practical factors such as physical accessibility, buildability, and scalability. Through this process, we were able to identify and develop the concept that most effectively addressed our itentified insights.
Through valuable user testing processes, careful iteration was undertaken to create a more user-centred design.
A simple wireframe encompassed the specific features that addressed user pain points focused on basic elements of the design.
A physical cardboard mockup of the shopping basket served to visualise the product and whether users found it intuitive. This was then further developed with realistic objects that users could place into the basket, allowing better and more realistic engagement with the prototype
A supermarket model allowed users to navigate a store-like environment while interacting with the digital and physical prototypes, integrating all elements into a single experience.
We established a framework aimed at testing if the design effectively addressed the opportunities identified in our research insights. Everything was specifically tested and measured against our outlined core insights.
We developed a high-fidelity digital prototype that integrated our core design features—navigation support, communication aids, and distraction reduction—into a cohesive and accessible shopping experience. The prototype was built for mobile, with an emphasis on intuitive flows and clear visual hierarchy.
Through user testing, we found our design effectively addressed the key insights uncovered in research. Users reported improved ease of navigation, reduced reliance on staff, and fewer distractions while shopping—demonstrating alignment with our design goals and validating the concept’s impact.
✅ Ability to Simplify Navigation
✅ Time spent
❌ Ease of directions
✅ Effectiveness of the communication features
✅ Minimise the need for staff interaction
✅ Effectiveness in minimising distractions
❌ Identify points of distraction
✅ Refocus users after distractions
❌ Impact of the categorised basket
This is just a glimpse into what we tackled over 13 intense weeks of design and development. If you're curious to dive deeper, feel free to check out the full visual report we submitted at the end of the project. I’d also be more than happy to chat in detail about the process, insights, or anything else that sparked your interest!
Take a closer look at our final report, which covers everything from user research and design rationale to testing outcomes and reflections. It’s a comprehensive snapshot of the entire project journey—packed with insights, visuals, and key takeaways.
Take a look! 👀Take a closer look at our final design, featuring detailed explanations of the key features, branding, and design choices.
Take a look! 👀