Communication Tool � participants using the modular kit
Social Impact Design Project - TU DElft Year 2 2025
COMMUNICATION
TOOL
Design for Social Impact Thematic Analysis Design for Communities
01
- Design Project

Design Brief

The communication tool was designed based on 10 weeks of prior research, that led to the following design statements:

1. We want the municipality to counter vacancy by introducing and facilitating the toolkit so that more spaces are matched with community-driven initiatives. 2. We want neighbourhood initiatives to bring life to vacant properties by giving them a creative and accessible way to communicate their ideas.

The Tool

Storyboard of the final tool usage flow
Example of Tool Kit Use
Modular Building Kit - communication tool components
Tool Kit

Modular Building Kit

Used during a conversation between an owner of a vacant property and a neighbourhood resident. A civil servant of the municipality of Rotterdam facilitates the session. The tool helps the resident communicate their vision for the property more clearly, and helps the property owner see how their property could be used.

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02
Testing

User Testing Sessions

Character card � Samira Character card � Bilal Character card � Mevr. van Dam
03
Design Outcomes

Key Highlights

Tangible Communication Format The physical tool kit allows for visual, low-barrier idea sharing between residents and property owners who may not share a common 'vocabulary' or design background.
Standardised Tool Kit The standardised tool kit can be used across different vacancy types and Rotterdam neighbourhoods without redesign.
Inclusive Participation The tool is designed to encourage participation from a diverse range of stakeholders, ensuring all voices are heard.
04
Reflection

Points for Improvement

Dependent on Civil Servants Sessions require a trained municipal civil servant. Use of the tool kit is limited by civil servant availability and training.
In-Person Only The physical kit cannot be used remotely or at different times, limiting the use to situations where all three parties can meet in person.
Owner Participation Barrier Success depends on property owners voluntarily engaging in open dialogue sessions, which may be difficult to set up consistently.
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