Enhancing Participatory Design Through Blockchain

Abstract

Participatory Design (PD) is a complex approach to designing products, services, or systems that actively involve the people who use, will use, or will be impacted by the design process. This article explores the use of blockchain to improve upon key challenge areas in PD, with a series of foundational premises proposed to address three specific areas (power dynamics, trust, and participation) where existing PD literature has identified challenges to successful PD administration. Blockchain technology may help to improve outcomes in these areas, and provide a platform for successful PD administration that is superior to those used for PD projects today. Specific uses for blockchain in PD initiatives are illuminated, along with corresponding benefits that may enhance the outcomes of PD initiatives.