UX Uniquity: The Old Dog with New Tricks

Abstract

When higher education institutions closely collaborate with NGOs, strategic impact occurs that, in turn, impacts the end-user experience. The presentation will deliver several practical examples from within the University of Pretoria/SA Guide-Dogs Association for the Blind trans-disciplinary research collaboration. This is an unconventional relationship with extraordinary results, therefore an extraordinary presentation within the traditional expectations of a UX Conference. The South African Guide-Dogs Association for the Blind serves end-users whose needs differ significantly from the average user, which directly impacts how they interact with and experience user interfaces. The information has been gathered through the Association’s 72 years of existence and experience. The greatest responsibility of all is to influence the user experience for users with limited or no sight, the visually impaired, hence guide-dogs carry one of the largest responsibilities in the world, being the eyes for those without sight. This presentation aims to introduce the audience to the world of Assistance Dogs, the Association, and the variety of activities undertaken to better the world of the visually impaired, the physically impaired, and children with autism. UX Uniquity is a tongue-in-cheek reference to an Assistance Dog and the impact it has in the lives of those who rely on them to navigate life.