Nigerian Designer Championing Digital Inclusivity Through Design
Olufemi Ayandokun, a senior product designer at XchangeBox, isn’t just focused on creating visually appealing designs. He believes that good design is intrinsically linked to functionality and accessibility, especially within the context of Nigeria and the broader African continent. He is on a mission to ensure that digital products are usable and beneficial for everyone, regardless of their technical proficiency.
# A Design Philosophy Rooted in Experience
Ayandokun’s dedication to inclusive design stems from a transformative encounter with informal traders, which significantly reshaped his perspective. For him, design must be purpose-driven, serving a practical need for users. His products prioritize digital inclusivity, ensuring they are easy to navigate and understand for all users. Ayandokun’s path to product design wasn’t a direct one. Initially, he pursued civil engineering at Obafemi Awolowo University, a path chosen by his parents. His interest in design began during his time in school, sparked by a fascination with visuals and aesthetics. He started experimenting with graphic design, which eventually blossomed into a passion for product design. In a country like Nigeria, where digital literacy varies widely, this focus is vital for ensuring that technological advancements benefit the entire population, promoting a design standard for digital products.
In conclusion, Ayandokun’s work exemplifies the power of design to bridge the digital divide. His commitment to building inclusive digital products serves as a model for other designers in Nigeria and beyond, highlighting the importance of prioritizing user experience and accessibility in the development of technology.
Keywords
Related Keywords: Nigerian designer, tech accessibility, inclusive technology, African tech, tech for all, Nigerian innovator, accessible design, technology for everyone, digital inclusion, bridging the digital divide
