Applying User Interface Design Process Model for a Mobile Community Project for the Deaf

Abstract

The advancement of mobile communication technologies has created a new form of social network for communities to communicate and share similar interests via the mobile platform. Given the fact that Malaysia is a fast-paced developing nation with a relatively low computer-Internet penetration, and high mobile network growth, there are desirable needs for disabled communities to leverage a mobile social network to enhance relationships for better communication in their daily lives. We designed DHearT, a mobile social network for hearing impaired users in Malaysia to bridge the communication gap between the deaf and hearing groups. This paper illustrates and discusses the user interface design process model with its design methods and human factors techniques for a mobile community project for the deaf, namely DHearT.