teilhaben. - Accessibility through Co-Creation

Three questions for the project team

What was the particular challenge of the project from a UX point of view?
The biggest challenge was identifying and recruiting potential users, who already have experience with „BuT“. I strongly believe in the importance of initial user research - understanding current challenges and pain points through empathy. This foundation work ensures that we - as UX Designers - identify the „right“ challenge to solve for our users to generate real impact. Only then, a „right“ solution can be designed.
However, being eligible for „BuT“ is a highly sensitive topic, as this means that families receive financial support from the government. Thanks to people, who support parents in these circumstances, a trustful environment was created. I am grateful to them for supporting this research and sharing their lives with a stranger.

What was your personal highlight in the development process? Was there an aha!-moment, was there a low point?
Throughout the project, I learned a lot about accessibility and its facets. My personal highlight was realizing just how much this had already influenced my own thinking and got incorporated into my own journey. Being inclusive and respectful is a key value to me. Learning about it and practicing it on a regular basis - in projects as well as in my private life alike, was and still is an exciting journey.
One key challenge I came across was managing my ambitions. I realized how one could always „do more research“ or „facilitate more co-creation sessions“. It is good to stay curious, but aiming for the 100% can lead to paralysis and that is not helpful for anyone. Moving forward is the key I strive for.

Where do you see yourself and the project in the next five years?
Within the next five years I am hoping for „teilhaben.“ to influence people working with and for government as well as young designers in multiple ways:
Firstly, supporting the mindset shift regarding accessibility, moving from „must do“ to „want to do“, resulting in inclusive public services.
Secondly, inspiring curiousness and action to design public services, thus creating real impact by serving as many people as possible.
Lastly, this project has fueled my own appreciation for designing for the common good. Combining this with a growth mindset is my personal goal for the time to come.