Following an initial discovery phase, Stroke Association identified opportunities to improve the effectiveness of support groups during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. The aim now was set to create a digital space where volunteer support group leaders could share resources, experiences and inspiration.

Outlandish collaborated with Stroke Association through a 3 month Development Phase, to explore and deliver an initial concept.

A user-focused process

Our approach featured:

  1. UX research, incorporating “listening tour” interviews with stroke survivors to assess needs and desires, and internal stakeholders to ensure a concept aligned with long-term strategy.
  2. Design sprints, working with stroke survivors and exploring user needs and value, the creation of user journeys, and concept generation
  3. 2x iterations of an interactive prototype (16 screens, mobile focused)
  4. User testing, 1:1 online sessions with stroke survivor, facilitator, team observation and a post-testing reviews workshop.

A final inspiration piece for the wider Stroke team, evidencing findings and including recommendations for follow-on work such as content gathering tests, accessibility considerations and more.

The Stroke teams reported that the process was a great experience, giving them direction for both the Volunteer Support Group work and the ways in which Stroke approaches innovation projects. It provided a user-centred piece of work which can be used internally to provide clear and communicable vision and direction.

Sample user journeys. Click to expand / see in high res.

The Stroke teams reported that the process was a great experience, giving them direction for both the Volunteer Support Group work and the ways in which Stroke approaches innovation projects. It provided a user-centred piece of work which can be used internally to provide clear and communicable vision and direction.