Discovery
We worked with an expert in digital exclusion at the London School of Economics and Political Science to determine the data sets that we would use and algorithms to build the composite measure and to ensure that the design of the map accurately represented the underlying datasets.
I also worked closely with the developers and the LGA who were providing the data (LG Inform API) to insure that the design utilised the existing technology as best possible.
A responsive design was required that would work well on all screen sizes and devices. It was clear that user interface needed to clearly highlight the areas with greatest likelihood of exclusion but also encourage users to explore the issues in more detail.
Wireframes and prototype
I produced initial sketches of different approaches and presented these to the team and other stakeholders for discussion.
I decided to go with a single page design that allowed the user explore the map as well as the lower level data without complex navigation. Results of user testing of two options supported the decision to expose all the measures available without requiring a click through.
I created a prototype using Sketch and Invision to test the navigation and flow through the application. I produced detailed designs of the screens and search requirements which the developers used to build the heatmap.
The heatmap was designed to adhere to the BBC's accessibilty guidelines and I worked closely with the developers to ensure that these were met.
Results
The heatmap received a great deal of positive press including national TV and radio and features in the Guardian and on the BBC technology blog. http://www.go-on.co.uk/resources/heatmap/
I was contacted by the British Medical Association looking to produce a similar heatmap and I understand that Dr Ellen Helsper is working to produce similar heatmaps to raise the profile of the issue in several US cities.
