Client
Sector
Construction
Key Activities
Insight gathering, Prototype development, prototype testing, graphic construction manual development
Designing a construction manual that is simple, contextual, visually appealing and accessible
Kubik is a company based in Ethiopia that helps countries reduce their carbon and plastic footprints by transforming plastic into low-carbon construction materials. Aiming to create safe, durable, and affordable buildings that everyone can enjoy.
To design a customer-facing construction ‘manual’ that mirrors the innovative nature of Kubik’s product. Kubik intended for the ‘manual’ to embody its principles and tell its story in simple visuals.
- Create a cohesive layout that aligns with the Kubik brand
- Ensure the design is easy to navigate, with clear hierarchical structure and information organisation and resonates with target audience
- Incorporate informative illustrations, diagrams, and images
- Visually and linguistically, it’s important for the manual to reflect the Ethiopian context and illustrate cultural nuances intentionally.
To ensure a comprehensive understanding of Kubik’s product and its application within the construction industry, our team began by analyzing and familiarizing ourselves with the product’s, its intended use, and the challenges it aims to address.
Given the project’s focus on ensuring appropriateness and user-friendliness, using the HCD approach, we conducted a consultation with a diverse range of stakeholders. These included contractors, masons, architects, site engineers, as well as Kubik’s internal team of contractors and factory personnel. These interactions provided us with insights into the needs, pain points, and preferences of those directly involved in the construction process.
Subsequent to this research phase, we entered the idea generation phase, where we explored multiple concepts aimed at enhancing the Manuals functionality and usability. We developed prototypes, each one designed to test different aspects of the product in real-world scenarios. These prototypes were then evaluated with end users, allowing us to gather direct feedback and make informed refinements.
As a result of our research and development efforts, we have designed a comprehensive Kubik Construction “Box” designed to guide users through the building process.
- This Box includes a Construction Manual that outlines Kubik’s brand story and mission, provides a detailed explanation of how to use Kubik materials, and offers step-by-step guidance on assembling and integrating the Kubik material with other construction elements such as roofs, windows, and doors.
- The Box features Small Demo Blocks that allow customers to practice assembling Kubik materials before beginning actual construction. These blocks come with a compact and easy-to-follow manual for added clarity.
The construction manual itself is an A5-sized booklet, making it conveniently sized for use on-site. It includes sketches, images, and tool recommendations for each construction phase, ensuring a clear and practical understanding of the process.
