Designing Women-Centred Products: Prioritizing Inclusion and Diversity in the Design Process
LIFESTYLE
Design has the power to influence our world, but it can also perpetuate exclusion. In this article, we discuss the importance of designing women-centred products as well as the role of women in the design profession. We also highlight some innovative African technology products that demonstrate what can be accomplished through the women-centred design and the benefits women can reap by participating in the ecosystem. Finally, we discuss increasing female-led innovation and creating a more inclusive and diverse environment.
BY AYOMIDE OGUNSIAKAN
20 March 2023
Given the significance of the menstrual cycle to women’s health, I found it absurd that when some of the first health-tracking apps initially released “forgot” to include a period tracker. Although more recent updates have included a period tracker, this is one of the numerous examples of exclusion in design.
Contrary to the notion that design should be one-size-fits-all, design should address the individual needs of its users. Design should be empathetic. So, minute details like language, colour, and icon selection can influence how users view a product. Therefore, including women in the design profession is essential for its future and for developing products that recognise and meet these needs.
Including women in the decision-making process is vital in promoting development and innovation. One of the ways to drive innovation through inclusion is by supporting female founders. Between 2013 and 2021, African entrepreneurs received $12.6 billion in funding; however, women-led less than 5% of these businesses, compared to 82% of men. This highlights a clear systemic technological barrier women face, necessitating coordinated action. Women's participation in design will undoubtedly bring a fresh perspective to the field and contribute to a more inclusive future for the world.
Additionally, “Design for Women by Women” is a crucial step in the right direction. It recognises that women are not just a subset of users but have unique needs worth considering in the design process. It also goes beyond the inclusion of women in design teams and extends to the role of all stakeholders involved in building more inclusive products that address the unique needs of women. By involving women in this process, we can create more empathetic, effective, and beneficial outcomes for everyone. Some African technology products show what can be achieved with women-centred design and women's inclusion in tech. They include:
Women-centred design is effective because it meets women's needs while benefiting everyone. A great example is Piggyvest, founded in 2016 by Somto Ifezue, Odunayo Eweniyi and Joshua Chibueze. One of the co-founders of Piggyvest is a woman who has experienced the challenges of personal finance management in Nigeria.
Hence, Piggyvest offers a valuable financial product for Nigerians to save and invest money while giving women a safety net in emergencies. As a Nigerian woman, you've probably heard the phrase "vex money." In the past, it could be gold jewellery passed down to a new bride by her parents, but technology apps have redefined that. With Piggyvest, the safe lock, among other features, allows women to have emergency funds set aside for the rainy day. What I find most beautiful about it is that it benefits women and all users differently.
Many young women view sex as taboo due to societal pressures and a lack of comprehensive sex education. In many cases, sex education is substituted with abstinence-based programs, leaving women with limited knowledge about their bodies
and reproductive health. This lack of education and resources often makes women feel ashamed, confused, and uncertain about their sexual health.
However, Zoie Health is a virtual clinic that aims to change the conversation around women's sexual health. Zoie Health empowers women to take control of their health and well-being by providing a safe and welcoming community and comprehensive healthcare services. With a focus on education and empowerment, Zoie Health is working to break down the taboos surrounding women's sexual health and ensure women have access to
the resources they need to live healthy and fulfilling lives.
As stated previously, systemic barriers make it difficult for women founders to raise funds and attract investors. First Check addresses this issue by providing female founders with their first checks at the earliest stage of product development. The company's co-founders, Eloho Omame and Odunayo Eweniyi demonstrate that women's inclusion in tech will create more space for other women.
Although there is still work to be done, it is crucial to recognise the progress made by these products. These innovative solutions demonstrate what can be achieved and highlight the advantages women can reap from participating in the ecosystem.
Hence, to increase design for women by women, it is essential to address the gender gap
in the design sector and ensure that women are included in the design process. We can achieve these through initiatives such as mentorship programs and scholarships that encourage women to pursue careers in design. Companies can also prioritise hiring
women designers and providing opportunities for them to lead projects.
Accountability measures should also be put in place to ensure the inclusion of women in design; Companies should set specific diversity and inclusion targets for design teams. These targets could include a certain percentage of women in leadership roles, a certain percentage of women recruited for design roles, or a certain percentage of products designed with a focus on women's needs. They can then conduct regular progress reports and evaluations to ensure that these targets are being met and that the design team is working towards a more inclusive and diverse environment. In addition, companies can
also conduct surveys and focus groups with women users to gather feedback on their experiences with products and ensure that their needs are being addressed in the design process.
Finally, we can create a more diverse and inclusive environment by empowering women to take up space and lead the way for others. Despite women's obstacles, we must continue to support each other and work towards a brighter future. A famous saying goes, "We girls gotta stick together," and we can achieve great things together.
