Cómo eliminar o disminuir el impacto negativo en productos digitales.

Product design should not only focus on functionality and appearance, but also on the ethical and social impact it can have. It is critical to consider how a product will affect both internally, in design and operational decisions, and externally, in how it is perceived and used by consumers. This begs the question, how can we reduce these negative impacts? Let's look at the tools and principles that guide ethical design.

What is inclusive design?

Inclusive design focuses on including all social and cultural sectors in the process of creating and iterating products or services. This means considering the various ways in which people interact with and benefit from the product, ensuring that no one feels excluded because of their background, culture or economic ability. Some key strategies include:

• Inclusive user research: Conducting market research that looks at a broad spectrum of demographics.
• Accessibility testing: Ensuring that the product is usable by people with different physical and cognitive abilities.

How do we achieve digital accessibility?

Digital accessibility refers to anyone, regardless of their physical or cognitive abilities, being able to understand, navigate and interact effectively with a digital product or service. To achieve it, it is crucial to follow certain guidelines and practices such as:

• Use of labels and descriptions: Implement alternative text on images for screen reader users.
• User-friendly interfaces: Create clear and simple interfaces that make it easy for everyone to use.

Why is sustainability important in design?

Sustainability seeks to balance the use of natural resources with the environment, reducing the ecological impact of products. Some practices include:

• Designing durable products: Creating goods that have a long service life and are easily repairable.
• Use of recyclable materials: Opt for materials that can be reused or recycled at the end of their useful life.

How do we respect people's data?

Respecting the privacy and mental health of users is essential in any ethical design. It's about ensuring that data is handled with integrity, and that we don't promote addictions through aggressive business models. Some recommendations are:

• Transparency in data use: clearly inform users about how their data will be used.
• Designing healthy digital experiences: Avoid using techniques that psychologically manipulate users to increase usage time.

What role do ethics and philosophy play in design?

Design ethics and philosophy provide us with a framework for reflecting on the assumptions and rationale that guide our design decisions. This approach allows us to identify aspects not previously considered, ensuring that we evaluate each edge thoroughly. Some ethical practices are:

• Bias screening: Review design processes to eliminate possible unconscious biases.
• Periodic impact assessments: Regularly consider the social and ethical effects of products.

What is low technology and when should it be considered?

Low-tech refers to solutions that work effectively without the need for high technology. This is especially relevant in areas with limited access to advanced technological resources, such as quality internet or basic services. Some strategies to consider are:

• Optimization for basic devices: Ensure that the product works on devices with limited capabilities.
• Local context: Adapt product features to the needs and resources available in various regions.

These ethical design tools and principles are crucial for any creator who wants to develop responsible and sustainable products. It is essential to think beyond the immediate benefits and consider how our designs affect communities and the environment at large. Let's continue to explore and apply these practices in our future projects!