Participatory design process

Participatory design, also known as co-operative design [65], is a process in which the proposed end-users of a product are actively involved in the design of the product. An iterative approach is often taken, with users evaluating the product, modifications made and re-evaluation undertaken over several cycles. The aim is to improve the quality and value of the final product to end-users. Focus groups are a valuable approach to use, enabling demonstrations of prototypes and the provision of opportunities for discussion and feedback. We chose to use a participatory design process, discussing the materials and concepts with key stakeholders to increase the likelihood that the approach would be understood, adopted and normalised [66]. Following an initial peer review group meeting, three focus groups were held (two groups with parents of children with unilateral cerebral palsy secondary to perinatal stroke, and one with therapists and other healthcare professionals). Revisions to the materials were made iteratively in line with feedback from the groups as shown in Fig. 2.

Outline of participatory design process