Improving navigation for the visually impaired in closed spaces

Abstract

This project seeks to improve navigation for the visually impaired in closed spaces by improving the experience of planning routes on Google Maps. Design thinking methodology was used to distill the crucial and underserved pain points of independent navigation – the lack of accurate information about closed spaces, made accessible to the visually impaired. Supplemented with the gap analysis and competitive market research, Google Maps was identified to have the highest impact if accessibility standards were raised. With the implementation of a speech-first interface, simplified interface and disctinct elements, provision of high contrast visuals, and use of stereo soundscape, information on Google Maps can be made more accessible to the visually impaired. Thereby, giving them access to accurate information which allows them to plan and prepare for independent navigation with greater ease and efficiency.