PathVu is an innovative technology company that focuses on helping people with disabilities better navigate the ever-changing pedestrian pathways, sidewalks, and trail conditions so all pedestrians can have universal access to life, without barriers. Their team of seasoned accessibility experts created PathMeT, a revolutionary surface profiler that measures sidewalk accessibility according to U.S. Access Board standards.

Centered around PathMeT since 2014, PathVu needed to take the next step in the maturity of their business by creating a strong brand vision, growing their business-to-business reach, and expanding the use of their core technology through a business-to-consumer mobile app. 

We partnered with PathVu to propel them forward through a revitalized brand identity, multi-channel marketing website, and accessible B2C mobile app experience.

As part of the first version of the pathVu mobile product, we conducted numerous user interviews and thorough research on how universal design and mobile user experience can positively impact people's lives. 

Working closely with pathVu's lead developer, we created a versatile mobile navigation experience, sidewalk obstruction collection, and rating tool — emphasizing universal usability. 

Additionally, we created an extensive design system and provided guidance to support the development process.

An open and non-stigmatizing approach was key in our research process. We conducted user interview sessions, inviting people with unique mobility considerations to share their experiences and thoughts, informing our approach. 

This had a strong influence on our design concepts, which received positive praise in a series of subsequent validation and testing exercises.