Client: Breakthrough ACTION | Year: 2020
Context
In partnership with Breakthrough ACTION, we supported the development of innovative Social and Behavior Change (SBC) strategies aimed at strengthening collaboration between communities and health service delivery points in Guinea. This initiative sought to bridge longstanding gaps in communication and trust by introducing new approaches grounded in human-centered design.
In partnership with Breakthrough ACTION, we supported the development of innovative Social and Behavior Change (SBC) strategies aimed at strengthening collaboration between communities and health service delivery points in Guinea. This initiative sought to bridge longstanding gaps in communication and trust by introducing new approaches grounded in human-centered design.
Goals
Our primary goal was to foster effective collaboration and mutual trust between communities and health centers, using participatory methodologies to identify shared challenges and co-create locally adapted solutions. The project aimed to develop practical tools and strategies that would improve community engagement and enhance the responsiveness of health services.
Our primary goal was to foster effective collaboration and mutual trust between communities and health centers, using participatory methodologies to identify shared challenges and co-create locally adapted solutions. The project aimed to develop practical tools and strategies that would improve community engagement and enhance the responsiveness of health services.
Methods
Our approach combined immersive research with collaborative design. We began with user research to understand the dynamics between community members and health system actors. These insights informed a series of co-design workshops, where we brought together healthcare providers, community relays, and local health system representatives to surface challenges, generate ideas, and validate early solutions.
Our approach combined immersive research with collaborative design. We began with user research to understand the dynamics between community members and health system actors. These insights informed a series of co-design workshops, where we brought together healthcare providers, community relays, and local health system representatives to surface challenges, generate ideas, and validate early solutions.
I played a lead role in facilitating a national-level training of trainers in human-centered design, equipping local actors with the tools and mindset to carry the approach forward. This was followed by a co-design workshop at the prefectural level, where participants collaboratively developed and refined concepts tailored to their local context.
Outcome
The project culminated in the creation of a comprehensive partnership package framework, consisting of an implementation guide, practical toolbox, and facilitator’s notes. Designed to promote mutual trust, dialogue, and shared ownership, the framework provided concrete tools to support ongoing collaboration between communities and health centers.
The project culminated in the creation of a comprehensive partnership package framework, consisting of an implementation guide, practical toolbox, and facilitator’s notes. Designed to promote mutual trust, dialogue, and shared ownership, the framework provided concrete tools to support ongoing collaboration between communities and health centers.
Beyond the immediate deliverables, the project contributed to a cultural shift—embedding principles of co-creation, empathy, and shared responsibility into local SBC initiatives. The framework laid the foundation for more responsive, community-driven health programming, furthering Breakthrough ACTION’s mission and contributing to broader systems change within Guinea’s public health landscape.
Testimonial
"Ben consistently demonstrated an impressive understanding of user-centric methodologies and behavioral design principles, which greatly contributed to the success of our projects. His ability to navigate the complexities of the Francophone African market with respect and acknowledgement of his role as a Designer was invaluable. This ensured that our solutions were not only innovative but also culturally relevant and impactful. He approached every task with enthusiasm, creativity, and meticulous attention to detail, producing high-quality work under tight deadlines. His collaborative nature and strong communication skills fostered a positive team dynamic, making them a pleasure to work with."
- Juanita Rodriguez, Senior Strategic Designer
"Ben consistently demonstrated an impressive understanding of user-centric methodologies and behavioral design principles, which greatly contributed to the success of our projects. His ability to navigate the complexities of the Francophone African market with respect and acknowledgement of his role as a Designer was invaluable. This ensured that our solutions were not only innovative but also culturally relevant and impactful. He approached every task with enthusiasm, creativity, and meticulous attention to detail, producing high-quality work under tight deadlines. His collaborative nature and strong communication skills fostered a positive team dynamic, making them a pleasure to work with."
- Juanita Rodriguez, Senior Strategic Designer
