Lowitja Institute — Samantha Quick

Samantha is a UX designer, art director, illustrator and sushi enthusiast living in Perth, Australia.

A fresh start

In this case study, we delve into the impactful journey of working with Lowitja Institute, Australia's leading Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community-controlled health research institute. Over the course of the project, I undertook the re-design of the institute's website, focusing on enhancing the user experience (UX) and aligning the design with the institute's mission of advancing Indigenous health and wellbeing. This case study provides an insightful narrative of the designer's strategic approach, challenges, and the successful outcomes achieved through UX design expertise.

Immersion in Mission and Audience: My journey commenced with a deep dive into the Lowitja Institute's mission, values, and its vital role in supporting Australia’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health. By engaging with stakeholders, including researchers and community members, I cultivated a comprehensive understanding of the institute's unique identity and its diverse user base.

A meticulous analysis of the existing website's user experience was conducted. This included studying user flows, interactions, pain points, and feedback. Comparative analysis of UX standards in similar domains was undertaken to gain insights into best practices and trends.

The new design was thoughtfully infused with cultural sensitivity and inclusivity. Collaborating with cultural advisors and community members, I selected visual elements that celebrated the richness of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander heritage. Colour palettes, typography, and imagery were meticulously chosen to resonate with the target audience while adhering to the principles of respect and representation as well as to bring awareness to Lowitja.

Multiple design iterations were created, integrating feedback from stakeholders and user testing sessions. I closely collaborated with a web developer to ensure the seamless translation of design concepts into functional elements. Usability testing played a pivotal role in refining interactions and ensuring an enhanced user experience.

Through a strategic blend of user-centered design, cultural respect, and technical expertise, I helped to transform the user experience of the institute's website. The redesigned platform will serve as an interactive portal to knowledge, fostering engagement and meaningful connections with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and research institutions. By harmonizing functionality, aesthetics, and cultural relevance, the new website exemplifies my ability to create an inclusive and user-centric digital environment that aligns seamlessly with the institute's mission of advancing health and wellbeing.