Balance of considerations between technological and social factors : a case study on Smartrackᵀᴹ for the visually impaired

Abstract

Rebuilding inclusive facilities in old districts in metropolitan cities with high population density encounters a number of problems. It is necessary to find a solution to renew the city with minimal interruption of people’s everyday life. Through a case study of Hong Kong, the paper addresses the conditions of the public facilities provided for the visually impaired persons (VIPs) in Hong Kong. VIPs’ needs and concerns while using the facilities were investigated. Based on the findings, a new tactile guide path using smart technology, named Smartrack™, is designed. It is argued that supplementary actions have to be taken to help people with special needs to understand the issues of public privacy when smart technology is being brought to them. Inclusive researchers, designers, as well as educators, should collaboratively attain a balance among different considerations between technological and social factors.