Tech for Good Market Research

Tech for Good Market Research

We are passionate about exploring the positive impact of technology through our dedicated research. Our team has undertaken a range of studies around “Tech for Good,” examining how technology can be harnessed to bring about positive change and contribute to a better society.

Relevant applications

Social Impact Assessment: We conduct in-depth research to assess the social impact of various technological innovations. From mobile apps that promote mental health to platforms that facilitate communication and engagement across audiences, we investigate how these technologies can address societal challenges and improve lives.

Sustainable Technology Solutions: Our research extends to sustainable technology solutions that help combat environmental issues. We explore renewable energy technologies, eco-friendly manufacturing processes, and innovative approaches to waste management. By evaluating their effectiveness, we aim to promote a greener and more sustainable future.

Accessibility and Inclusion: Technology should be accessible to all. We focus on researching and evaluating technologies that promote inclusivity and accessibility for individuals with disabilities or who are neurodivergent. This includes examining assistive technologies, user interfaces, and digital platforms designed to empower and enable everyone to participate fully in the digital age.

Education and Digital Literacy: We understand the transformative power of technology in education. Our research has explored the use of technology to enhance learning experiences, improve educational outcomes, and bridge the digital divide. We also delve into initiatives that promote digital literacy and equip individuals with essential skills for the digital era.

Example ‘Tech for Good’ Projects

YMCA Digital Services Research

The outbreak of the COVID pandemic, and subsequent national and local lockdowns undoubtedly increased the use and dependency on digital technology and spaces, and this had a direct impact on voluntary sector organisations too. Local YMCAs needed to move their services into the digital space literally overnight. With no national ICT infrastructure, the ninety-or-so independent local associations all had to embark on a steep learning curve.

Some local YMCAs trialled their own apps and digital platforms to reach out to beneficiaries and keep them informed and connected. Others (especially the smallest YMCAs) took the decision to close services and wait for the pandemic to pass. Perhaps the majority introduced stopgap measures to keep services going in a digital form wherever possible, but without a solid digital platform or strategy.

All three of these responses inevitably raised the question: what should a post-lockdown YMCA look and feel like in relation to digital platforms?

The aims of this research were to explore:

• What digital services are run by local YMCAs and what services could be delivered as digital services?
• What digital services are service users accessing and what services do they want to access?
• What are the barriers, challenges, opportunities and solutions to accessing digital services?

Read the full case study: YMCA Digital Services Research