Planning some DIY Home Mods? There's an app for that! The DIYModify app is an excellent information resource for people wanting to modify their existing homes for increased mobility and accessibility, in and around, their homes. It is developed by HMInfo from the UNSW's Faculty of the Built Environment.
HMInfo or Home Modifications Clearinghouse is a website providing free, universally accessible, evidence-based design resources.
The DIYmodify app provides descriptions, diagrams and a limited price guide for accessibility-related items. It is laid out very well aesthetically, providing a very simple and easy to understand user experience.
However, some of the usability features are a bit clunky. Having to rely on the “Next” button to move to the next page is not as user-friendly or intuitive as it could be. The button is small and is a white button on a white background, which doesn’t stand out straight away.
A lot of time was spent trying to use the standard swipe gesture to move to the next screen to no avail. It is understandable needing a ‘next’ button for page readers, but both standard finger gestures and buttons can be utilised simultaneously, and perhaps this would create a smoother end-user experience.
Another consideration would be to include accessible light switches and adjusting light switch heights, as well as benchtops, etc. as further options.
Ultimately, integration with the HMInfo database to provide links to suppliers in the end user’s location should be considered a top priority for the developers of this app. All in all, this app has great potential and is well thought out and developed.
You can download the app by clicking here, or for more info call IDEAS on 1800 029 904 or click Live Chat!
