Lecturer’s research leads to problem-solving innovation
- 7 hours ago
- 2 min read
by Gerrit Bester
The TUT Faculty of Arts and Design’s Spotlight on Postgraduate Studies, Research & Innovation on 23 March highlighted the challenges visually impaired consumers face when choosing clothing.
In his presentation titled Effectiveness of a clothing selection guide for visually impaired individuals in Gauteng, South Africa, Dr Aubrey Ramatla from the Department of Fashion Design discussed the challenges visually impaired consumers encounter, including colour identification, size recognition and price information.
“These challenges often result in mismatched outfits, highlighting the importance of solutions that encourage independence and self-expression,” Dr Ramatla said.
Dr Ramatla’s research formed part of his doctoral studies and involved 20 visually impaired individuals. Its methodology included three phases: training the participants to use the Brailled Communicative Tool (which include swing- and in-stitch labels in Braille); observing them in a mock retail environment; and collecting qualitative and quantitative data through focus group interviews.
The key findings regarding user experience and tool effectiveness included enhanced independence (50% of participants reported increased shopping autonomy when using the tool), accurate information (35% of participants appreciated the accurate size, colour and price information provided) and ease of use (60% of participants found the tool easy to use, with clear Braille characters). Participants suggested improvements including the addition of country of manufacture (20%) and gender indication (15%).
While the Brailled Communicative Tool showed promise, some challenges were identified. These included time-consuming size searches, positioning issues when reading labels and limited style descriptions.
“Addressing these issues could enhance the tool’s effectiveness and user satisfaction further,” Dr Ramatla said.
“The Brailled Communicative Tool had a significant impact on users’ shopping experiences, fostering increased confidence and self-reliance. Participants reported feeling more empowered to make independent decisions and relying less on assistance from others. The tool also enhances privacy, enabling users to shop without constant interaction with store staff or companions,” Dr Ramatla added.
“Future efforts should focus on expanding the information provided, exploring integration with digital technologies such as voice-activated QR codes, developing comprehensive training programmes for all users and fostering partnerships with retailers to ensure widespread implementation,” Dr Ramatla concluded.
Dr Ramatla said that he became interested in this field and subsequently studied it after seeing his visually impaired father struggle with everyday tasks.
Dr Ramatla is a recognised innovator whose Brailled Communiative Tool is certified by the National Intellectual Property Management Office (NIPMO). This invention earned him the Best Innovation Award at the TUT Research and Academic Awards in 2017, as well as a nomination for the Faculty Artistic Award.
Throughout his career, which spans scholarship, innovation, industry practice and community engagement, Dr Ramatla has established himself as a leading authority on inclusive fashion design, curriculum transformation and socially responsive design innovation in South Africa and beyond.
PHOTO: Nkhodi Mthinunye
