Very Big Things

WriteByMe

Innovative, Empowering, Inclusive, Unbiased, Effective.

Best Visual Design - Function / Honoree

Very Big Things

Best Visual Design - Function

Honoree

WriteByMe challenges implicit gender bias in written communication, closing the gender gap. Karen Beber, Co-Founder, WriteByMe.io

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Q: Can you briefly describe your project and the concept behind it?

A: WriteByMe counters implicit bias in writing by empowering everyone to write with the same level of effectiveness. It was created by a mother-daughter duo after reading extensive research on gender differences in communication. Passion for fostering a more inclusive future and equal opportunities for all inspired the project.

Q: Once you settled on your idea, what influenced your decision on the chosen technical approach?

A: To analyze social writing patterns and provide unbiased language suggestions, we used machine learning algorithms that required extensive data to identify patterns of implicit bias. The software flags instances of biased language and offers alternative phrasing, distinguishing it from traditional language analysis techniques.

Q: What were some of your biggest learning and takeaways from this project?

A: WriteByMe taught us that biases run deep beyond gender, appearance, or birthplace, and that designers have a responsibility to address hidden prejudices. We created WriteByMe to empower effective communication and hope to foster a world that celebrates diversity and embraces shared humanity.

Q: What web technologies, approaches, tools, or resources did you use to develop this experience?

A: WriteByMe uses a customized version of Draft.js and is integrated with a custom API and database. We utilized various technologies like machine learning, natural language processing, and data analytics to power the bias-detection features and ensure a seamless user experience.

Q: How did the final product meet or exceed your expectations?

A: The product exceeded expectations, inspiring users with its ease-of-use and effectiveness. Our team transformed, becoming more direct, open, and having fun as usual. We take pride in the visually pleasing and straightforward tool we created, a genuine catalyst for change.

Q: Why is this an exciting time to create new digital experiences?

A: This is an exciting time to create new digital experiences because we are witnessing an explosion of new technologies that enable us to create new and innovative products. Our team is passionate about pushing the boundaries of what's possible with technology, and we're always exploring new ways to use machine learning and natural language processing to create products that make a real difference in people's lives.

Q: How did you reach a good balance of your own creative ideas and technical capabilities with a fair representation of the client’s brand?

A: With a "go for gold" approach, our team expertly blends creativity, technical expertise, and the client's brand. We set collaborative milestones, focusing on the core function of analyzing social writing patterns. We were asked to design the brand identity which worked well to energize the team to overcome challenges, delivering a cohesive, authentic experience that genuinely reflects the client's identity.

Q: What did your initial moodboard, wireframe, or prototype look like? How did those ideas change throughout the design process?

A: Initially focusing on "implicit bias towards women," our moodboards, UX flows, and visual designs reflected this. As the project evolved, we broadened our scope to benefit everyone. Our prototypes embraced minimalism and clarity, aligning with our mission to create a straightforward, inclusive solution for all users.