The limits of open tool usability for frontline communities
While standardized transparency and documentation practices can showcase an open source tool's validity and sustainability, frontline communities may not have the technical capacity to use or replicate them. Some tools often assume stable internet access, powerful computers, and high levels of digital literacy, some or all of which may not be present in a frontline community. Free tools also often require a lot of time and resources to develop or maintain, leading many communities to opt for low-cost proprietary tools. Community projects often find it most effective to use a hybrid open-proprietary approach. For others, the distinction between open source and proprietary tools may not even be a major consideration for various reasons (e.g., as lack of awareness of the differences, easy use being a priority).
Solutions
1.
Map the technology ecosystem
Work with research collaborators or users to map their communities' technology needs and the infrastructure that would support these. Be thoughtful about when and how open and digital technologies are used and use them only when they add value. Remember that openness can mean different things to different people.
2.
Find power users
Identify and support power users to assess the accessibility needs of different actors and improve tools' accessibility and usability within communities. You can do this by organizing hackathons or workshops to test tools and identify interested or technically inclined community members. Provide resources and compensate these users.
3.
Design for multiple user types
Aim to design tools that require minimal training and maintenance, or use a variety of design features tailored to varying levels of experience and data requirements. Additionally, ensure documentation is created with diverse user types in mind, providing clear guidance for both novice and advanced users.
4.
Build layered accessibility
Offer different levels of accessibility, such as intuitive interfaces for community members, and customizable options for more experienced users.
5.
Develop community talent
Offer training through workshops and mentorship programs. Invest in training community members as maintainers or trainers for other community members.
Know of another resource or solution?
Resources
The Center for Scientific Collaboration and Community Engagement
The Center for Scientific Collaboration and Community Engagement provides resources and training on investing in and supporting "community champions" or power users. See their Community Champions program resources.
Componentes Inclusivos
Componentes Inclusivos es un blog híbrido y biblioteca de patrones de diseño enfocada en diseñar interfaces web inclusivas a nivel de componente. Aunque está dirigido principalmente a la accesibilidad, los patrones son útiles para atender las diversas necesidades de los usuarios.
FrontlineSMS
FrontlineSMS discusses how they used limitation as a design philosophy when developing tools that bridge the gap between highly technical users and frontline communities.