We came to India a little over two weeks ago, and are now embarking on the ‘plans into action phase’ of the design process.  A week into the course I had strong doubts about the likelihood of finishing and implementing a co-design project of this scale in two weeks. From our previous studies at ocad U the students on this trip realized the significance of breaking the barrier between designer and user. Many of us have theorized this process in other classes, but never has the term “co-design” meant so much. With only four days left till the groups fly home and part ways, I am bemused by what we have accomplished in so little time. Though seemingly small or simplistic, when I think about the magnitude of a well-designed logo or the effects of a play space on developing children the outcome of what we’ve worked towards could be more then any of us imagined.

While working with the communities we’ve experienced our share of setbacks and cultural differences, but despite these obstacles we tried our best to keep the organizations involved. Going forward these last few days, there are sure to be unforeseen complications and pending questions. Even with the small amount of time we have spent with KESBO and Sadhana I have little doubt that the impact of our projects will affect everyone involved.