Case Study: Flexikit: Enhancing the Museum Experience for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Introduction:

Flexikit is a prepping bundle designed to enhance the museum experience for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and their families. Created in collaboration with the Science Museum, London, Flexikit aims to empower every visitor, regardless of their abilities, by providing information and guidance to plan museum visits according to their comfort and convenience.

Our Aim:

• Enhance the experience of museum visitors with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

• Foster inclusivity and visitor-centered experiences.

• Facilitate preparation-in-advance for family visits to museums.

Challenge:

Museum outings can be overwhelming for families with children on the autism spectrum. Flexikit's research study delved into the concerns and challenges faced by these families, seeking to understand how museums can accommodate individuals with special needs.

Approach:

Flexikit's approach involved gathering current knowledge of museum interventions and exploring ways to facilitate preparation and encourage frequent participation by individuals with ASD and their families. Through ethnographic research and design thinking, the team aimed to create a comprehensive pre-visit system tailored to the needs of neurodiverse audiences.

My Role:

• Conducted ethnographic research to understand user needs and preferences.

• Developed concepts, personas, user journeys, system maps, user flows, and prototypes using Figma.

• Conducted user research and usability testing to iterate on solutions.

• Made design decisions to ensure both verbal and visual coherence.

• Created high-fidelity physical prototypes to simulate the museum experience.

Design Output - The Prepping Bundle:

• An Interactive Sensory Map.

• Functional Visual Cards.

• A VR Experience of the Exhibits.

Research & Study:

Flexikit's research approach involved in-depth directed storytelling, on-site findings, observations of special education classrooms, and surveys. The team spent time at the Science Museum, London, examining museum spaces, observing neurodiverse children's activities, and engaging with parents to understand their needs and challenges.

Findings and Results:

Flexikit's focus was on creating a systemised museum experience that promotes independence, safety, and engagement for children with ASD and their families. The pre-visit system supports families in planning their museum visits, elevates play with a purpose, and fosters curiosity and engagement.

Implementation:

Flexikit implemented the idea of building a pre-visit system to support children and their families, empowering them to feel free and explore museums at their own pace. Through thoughtful design and careful consideration of user needs, Flexikit has transformed the museum experience for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder, making museums more accessible and inclusive for all.