Based off of our interviews with the experts, our group decided to focus on creating a universal tool that Census workers and community members alike could use to create an easy dialogue with individuals. We created a zine that could be easily translated into a variety of languages, provided basic clarifying information about the census, and further resources for any additional questions. The zine folded out into a poster, something we imagined could be hung in shop windows and homes, showcasing the importance of the form.

In order to understand how the tool could function, we also created a discussion "chalk talk" board and set up outside a Philadelphia library location. The board prompted participants with the statement, "In my neighborhood, I want...". Because we were not trusted members of the area, we used this as an opening in order to further discuss the census with local communities. After a successful two hours, we had run out of zines and had a board full of thoughtful responses to take back to the client. This partnership of clients ultimately asked for our design to brand and further use.

charette 2019

As part of our Fall semester, the entire program engages in a two-day charette. We are split up into groups and given a real-life issue to help solve through brainstorming and prototyping. The clients were Census 2020, the Free Library of Philadelphia, and the City of Philadelphia. Our clients were looking for tools to help count populations in hard to count areas, as well as generally spread clarifying information about the census and its critical importance in future funding. Each group met with experts from these relative fields to discuss specific issues and suggestions that would direct us to solutions.