A Methodology for Generating Ideas to Solve Problems of the Mobility-Challenged

Abstract

The aim of this study is to conduct root cause analysis of problems of the mobility-challenged when they walk and generate ideas to solve the problems using idea generation techniques. Finding users’ problems is important to develop new products or services which give better user experience to users. Based on collected problems, identifying causes of them is also essential to develop effective and creative products and services. There are many techniques for cause analysis and idea generation. Different techniques should be chosen depending on target users, types of product and service. This study tried to make ideas to improve the experience of the mobility-challenged when they walk outside. We choose 5W1H and Why-Why diagram as cause analysis techniques. In idea generation step, How-How diagram and SCAMPER were used. As a result, 1,055 causes were derived from 23 problems, and 146 ideas were generated using idea generation techniques. Ideas can be classified into two types by their function: providing information and aiding communication. Providing information about obstacles, other people, and mobility-challenged is included in providing information type. Ideas about translating speech, notifying and sending request are included in aiding communication type. This results of the study can be utilized to develop real product or service to improve the experience of the mobility-challenged when they walk.