Knowledge Base Repository
In addition to research papers, the Design Society is developing several valuable resources for those interested in the study of design. These include a repository of PhD theses, a library of case studies and transcripts of design activities, and an archive of our newsletters. Please note that these resources are accessible exclusively to Design Society members.
HCD TO ADDRESS THE WATER CRISIS. A MULTI-CASE APPROACH
Marquez Cañizares, Juan Carlos; Oyervides-Ramirez, Griselda Esthela
Type:
Year:
2025
Editor:
Bohemia, Erik; Buck, Lyndon; Grierson, Hilary
Author:
Series:
E&PDE
Institution:
Tecnologico de Monterrey, Mexico
Page(s):
331 - 336
DOI number:
ISBN:
3005-4753
ISSN:
978-1-912254-22-4
Abstract:
Access to clean water has been raised by the UN as one of the greatest challenges of humanity, located in SDG number 4. This situation is a reality in many places, where highly extreme conditions are faced, long drought seasons followed by intense storms that overflow and destroy cities, Monterrey, Mexico, has lived this for decades, however the situation worsened due to factors such as mismanagement by the government, abuse by private companies and lack of water care culture of citizens. Also, there is a strong need to develop professionals who can address complex projects through design methodologies and who are able to propose and develop innovative solutions, focused on the needs of people and considering the impact of such solutions on biodiversity by creating sustainable projects with high social impact. The students used the human-centered design (HCD) to integrate affected communities in the design process. This article examines the results of projects carried out between 2021 and 2024, all of which address challenges related to water. The projects were developed by students in their fourth semester of bachelor’s degree in design at Tecnologico de Monterrey. The main aspects analyzed were water use, management and recycling, prevention of water pollution, rainwater collection, quality monitoring, types of users, as well as commercial feasibility and user experience. This article discusses key lessons learned and provides a framework for future projects that seek to address water supply issues through a human-centered approach.
Keywords:
