The Campaign

The Good Vibes App: the first, two-way communication tool for the deafblind. Since the deafblind deciphered all things by touch, we needed a technology or medium that could replicate tactile feedback. And it had to be easily available, affordable, and dependable. We found all those qualities in the ubiquitous smartphone. We simply found a way to convert the English alphabet into tactile inputs (tap/long press) and back into tactile outputs (distinct vibrations).

Creative Execution

After interacting with the deafblind and their caregivers, we knew we had our task cut out. We had to design a user experience that replicates ‘touch & feel’ - the only form of two-way communication used by them. With the Good Vibes app, we dug deep and explored a whole new dimension of app design: one that works for those who can’t see nor hear. The result is ‘the invisible UI’ – probably the first of its kind.

App launched to a LIVE audience (deafblind and their caregivers) on 15th January 2018 at the National Training For Adult Deafblind, Ahmedabad, INDIA—organised by Sense International INDIA. The launch was followed by an immersive workshop where the caregivers were given English/Morse conversion training material along with the app downloaded on to their smartphones. The deafblind, aside to the smartphone with the app installed, were given special, raised-UV coated English/Morse cue cards with dots and dashes that they could feel with their fingers. And, a short while later—the deafblind and their caregivers were messaging 'hello' to each other—for the first time, using a smartphone! Primary Medium: Mobile App, Google PlayStore www.goodvibesapp.org

What most people do not know is that deafblind children and adults can become active members of society if provided with the right support. The Good Vibes Project, with the Good Vibes app and training modules (for the deafblind and their caregivers), is designed to evangelise the use of the app so that the deafblind are integrated with our society. This will give them the much needed parity and societal acceptance—and as such make this project a success.