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It's a Much Harder Journey: Scaling Assistive Technology Innovations to New Markets in Africa

Authors:

Tigmanshu Bhatnagar,

Maryam Bandukda,

Catherine HollowayAuthors Info & Claims

AfriCHI '23: Proceedings of the 4th African Human Computer Interaction Conference

Pages 190 - 200

https://doi.org/10.1145/3628096.3629056

Published: 30 January 2024 Publication History

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Abstract

Access to Assistive Technology (AT) in Africa is severely limited, with less than 25% of those who need AT have access to it. This paper examines three cases illustrating the journey of scaling AT innovations in African markets to enhance access. Our methodology involves within-case and across-case analyses, highlighting the significant impact of contextual factors on assistive product design and service delivery. Key insights from these cases include the importance of securing standard approvals and demonstrating tangible benefits to build trust in emerging ecosystems. Modular, versatile, and customizable AT solutions proved crucial for adaptation and scalability without requiring substantial additional investments. In conclusion, this study emphasizes the profound role of context in shaping AT innovation. Addressing challenges and opportunities identified in these cases contributes to the discourse on enhancing AT innovation scalability, ultimately improving access for those in need of AT.

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Cited By

Yang KWu JXin HGong J(2024)"I see it as a wellspring for my positive and upward journey in life.": Understanding Current Practices of Assistive Technology's Customized Modification in ChinaProceedings of the ACM on Human-Computer Interaction10.1145/36870128:CSCW2(1-42)Online publication date: 8-Nov-2024
https://dl.acm.org/doi/10.1145/3687012

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It's a Much Harder Journey: Scaling Assistive Technology Innovations to New Markets in Africa

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AfriCHI '23: Proceedings of the 4th African Human Computer Interaction Conference

November 2023

343 pages

ISBN:9798400708879

DOI:10.1145/3628096

Copyright © 2023 Owner/Author.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution International 4.0 License.

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Association for Computing Machinery

New York, NY, United States

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Published: 30 January 2024

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AfriCHI 2023

AfriCHI 2023: 4th African Human Computer Interaction Conference

November 27 - December 1, 2023

East London, South Africa

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Cited By

Yang KWu JXin HGong J(2024)"I see it as a wellspring for my positive and upward journey in life.": Understanding Current Practices of Assistive Technology's Customized Modification in ChinaProceedings of the ACM on Human-Computer Interaction10.1145/36870128:CSCW2(1-42)Online publication date: 8-Nov-2024
https://dl.acm.org/doi/10.1145/3687012

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