We carry out research for educational institutions, industry bodies, architects and engineers for the built environment and health related organisations. Our research process is founded on the work associated with Kim Hutton’s MSc from Loughborough University and her continued research towards her PhD. A sample of the research associated with Loughborough University is set out below.

An investigation into how empathetic modelling intervention influences architects empathy - excerpt from Thesis

The results from an MSc Thesis by Kim Hutton at Loughborough University demonstrated that the study design methodology was successful in demonstrating that an 'empathetic modelling' intervention can influence design professionals empathy levels and inform their Design-Thinking.

Empathy is fundamental to design and is the first stage in the Design-Thinking Cycle. However, users are often too removed from the Design cycle for Design professionals to truly understand theirs users' needs.

Project Aims The aim of this study was to conduct an experimental study, with a cohort of Architects, using 'empathetic modelling' as the intervention, to measure their pre and post-intervention empathy levels using a validated scale.

Research Study Methods A pre-test to post-test interventional study was conducted using a mixed methods methodology. A validated psychometric questionnaire was conducted, pre and post-intervention. This quantitative data was analysed using SPSS and qualitative data was obtained from post-intervention interviews.

Research Findings The quantitative findings revealed that 100% of participants 'empathy' scores increased, pre to post-test, all being statistically significant. The qualitative data supported the quantitative data, with 100% of participants finding the intervention useful and insightful and informing their inclusive design thinking.

Research Summary This research demonstrated that an empathetic modelling intervention and empathy can be positively influenced, having wider positive implications on design professionals inclusive design-thinking. This project demonstrated how this reproducible and scalable intervention could have a positive social and moral impact on the widest user population to break down exclusion barriers.