# Large-scale, Longitudinal, Hybrid Participatory Design Program to Create Navigation Technology for the Blind

arXiv: https://arxiv.org/abs/2410.00192 · HTML: https://mlsanity.com/paper/2410.00192/

## Key facts

- Cited by 1 papers in the map (data through 14 Oct 2026).
- First posted on arXiv 30 Sep 2024.

## Built on by (most cited first, 1 of 1)

- [Safety-oriented sidewalk and road segmentation for smartphone-based assistive navigation](https://mlsanity.com/paper/2607.21137/) (2026)

## Abstract (arXiv)

Empowering people who are blind or visually impaired (BVI) to enhance their orientation and mobility skills is critical to equalizing their access to social and economic opportunities. To manage this crucial challenge, we employed a novel design process based on a large-scale, longitudinal, community-based structure. Across three annual programs we engaged with the BVI community in online and in-person modes. In total, our team included 67 total BVI participatory design participants online, 11 BVI co-designers in-person, and 4 BVI program coordinators. Through this design process we built a mobile application that enables users to generate, share, and navigate maps of indoor and outdoor environments without the need to instrument each environment with beacons or fiducial markers. We evaluated this app at a healthcare facility, and participants in the evaluation rated the app highly with respect to its design, features, and potential for positive impact on quality of life.