Overview
Peter Hall, Professor in Computer Science at Bath University, approached Elastic Mint with an ambitious goal: to transform his research into a practical technology that could help individuals with visual impairments understand the contents of images. The aim was to create a product specifically designed for use in educational settings, enhancing accessibility for visually impaired students.
The Challenge
The original idea was based on Peter’s academic research, which, while innovative, needed considerable development to evolve into a usable product. This transformation required more than technical know-how; it needed a deep understanding of the challenges faced by visually impaired individuals, as well as considerations around user experience in an educational context.
Our Approach
Elastic Mint worked closely with Peter Hall over several months, engaging in multiple discussions to assess what it would take to bring his research to life as a product. Throughout these sessions, our team uncovered and addressed several aspects that were not initially evident, such as:
- Scalability and Deployment: Turning a research prototype into something robust enough for regular use in schools, including addressing potential technical constraints.
- Practical Implementation: Considering how to integrate the technology into classrooms, working around the varying needs and technological capabilities of different schools.
Elastic Mint not only provided technical insights but also acted as a strategic partner, guiding Peter in understanding what it takes to develop research-based software that would have real-world impact.
Outcome
The result was a comprehensive plan for a product that could be used in schools to assist visually impaired students in understanding visual content more effectively. Elastic Mint has helped Peter Hall reach a point where development can now begin, providing him with a solid foundation and development roadmap. Moving forward, Elastic Mint will continue to provide technical leadership on this project, ensuring that the product evolves effectively from concept to implementation.
Professor Peter Hall commented: “Working with Elastic Mint has been a journey. Their advice has helped me turn a vague idea into a workable product: they positively disrupted my understanding of what it means to build software. Friendly, helpful, and professional, I have made the right choice in teaming with them.”
Collaboration with Peter Hall
Elastic Mint’s collaboration with Peter Hall highlights our approach to working with researchers—not just providing technical expertise, but also helping clients navigate the complexities of turning ideas into impactful solutions. This partnership brought together cutting-edge research and practical software development, ensuring that the end product will be not only innovative but also relevant and usable for its intended audience.
