This event is organised by CRC/TRR 361 in cooperation with TRR 270, CRC 1487 and CRC 1548 at TU Darmstadt.

We are all individuals: considering user diversity in design

Talk and Workshop by Prof. Robyn Clay-Williams

We are excited to announce that Professor Robyn Clay-Williams from Macquarie University will be visiting RWTH Aachen University, TU Darmstadt, and TU Wien to deliver a talk on diversity in design followed by a snack with opportunity for exchange. In the afternoon, there will be a hands-on workshop where some examples of problems in product design are discussed in more detail and possible solutions are developed together. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights and practical strategies for inclusive design!

Abstract: Did you know that women involved in car crashes face a significantly higher risk of fatal injuries than men? Or that some touchless soap dispensers fail to recognize people of color? These are just two striking examples of how neglecting diversity in design can have harmful, even life-threatening, consequences.

Despite these serious implications, many groups in our society remain an afterthought in product design—if they are considered at all. As current and future designers, we must recognize this issue and equip ourselves with the tools to address it. And who better to learn from than an expert in the field?

Professor Robyn Clay-Williams leads a research program at the Australian Institute of Health Innovation, Macquarie University, in the field of human factors in healthcare. Over a career spanning 40 years in aviation and healthcare, Robyn has worked extensively to develop and evaluate systems to make them fit for purpose and easier to use. Currently Robyn is developing new models of care to improve Emergency Department performance, and patient experience and outcomes for five vulnerable patient cohorts. Her 2019 TEDx talk on human factors is available on the global TED.com platform. Prior to her academic career, Robyn was a Royal Australian Air Force test pilot.

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Talk

Date: 14 May 2025

Time: 10:00-11:30 (followed by a snack with opportunity for exchange until 12:30)

Location: S1|03 283 (Wilhelm-Köhler-Saal)

Help us plan — please indicate your attendance by completing this quick poll: https://terminplaner4.dfn.de/cmzvsQ6MSUk7epdb (opens in new tab)

Workshop

Date: 14 May 2025

Time: 13:30-15:10

Location: Campus Stadtmitte, details will be announced before the event

Please register for the Workshop!

Registration Workshop: https://eveeno.com/178417699 (opens in new tab)