Data + Design: IDEO, Edyn, and Tree Canopy

Data + Design: IDEO, Edyn, and Tree Canopy

The Power of Data in Design

In our rapidly evolving tech landscape, data is a fundamental element that shapes our design processes. It's particularly indispensable in creating experiences for healthcare, enterprise software, and the Internet of Things (IoT). Access to data from the outset empowers us to envision our products with clarity.

Innovating in Healthcare with IDEO

At IDEO Chicago, our foray into healthcare aimed to develop tools for those with severe mental illnesses and their support networks. Our objective was clear: employ these tools for early crisis detection and communication, reducing homelessness, incarceration, and hospitalization rates. Our strategy involved:

  • Immersing ourselves in scientific research to deeply understand mental illnesses.
  • Empathizing with patients, caregivers, and government officials alike.
  • Grasping the everyday ecosystems of our users.
  • Utilizing and gathering data with minimal life disruption for our users.

We ventured into field studies, shadowed professionals, and interacted with institutions, experimenting with prototypes and existing devices to refine our designs. Ultimately, our efforts led to the launch of two pilot projects that a city adopted, addressing homelessness innovatively.

Enhancing Workplace Safety at IDEO

Another IDEO initiative explored workplace safety through wearable technology. Inspired by devices like Lapka, our goal was to design a system that was both accurate and engaging for consistent use. My role focused on improving the digital platform, particularly the data dashboards and insights, through interdisciplinary collaboration.

Revolutionizing Gardening with Edyn

At Fuseproject, I contributed to the Edyn project, a Kickstarter phenomenon. Edyn's intelligent garden sensor system, which includes a water valve and app, optimizes gardening by monitoring environmental conditions. My work enhanced the iOS and Android app experiences, offering rich data insights and educational content on a vast array of plant species.

Greening Cities with Google's Tree Canopy Lab

With Google, I was part of the Tree Canopy Lab team, leveraging AI and Earth Engine data to tackle environmental issues. Our mission aided cities like Los Angeles in using this tool to combat extreme heat and foster urban tree sustainability. Designing the Tree Canopy Lab involved making data accessible and actionable, focusing on clear, actionable insights. Check Google Environmental Insights Explorer.

Conclusion

My experiences with IDEO, Edyn, and Tree Canopy Lab illustrate the profound impact of melding design with data and technology. These projects not only met unique challenges but also paved new ways of thinking and solutions for a sustainable future.