6 weeks (February – May 2025)
Researcher, Designer, Prototyper, Presenter
Figma, ChatGPT Image generation
Help businesses in Ireland to naturally integrate Irish phrases into daily interactions in a way that feels effortless and engaging for both staff and customers?
5 participants
3 reputable sources
of existing solutions
Our research highlighted key challenges people face when speaking Irish in public, revealing opportunities for design to make the experience simpler and more enjoyable.
People avoid speaking Irish publicly due to fear of making mistakes.
Customers are more comfortable speaking Irish when staff initiate the conversation.
Reward systems encourage return customers.
Aoife loves the Irish language but feels hesitant speaking it publicly. She's eager for opportunities to comfortably use Irish in everyday life.
"I'd love to use more Irish in my daily life, but sometimes I worry about getting it wrong. When someone greets me in Irish though, it makes my day!"
People feel self-conscious about making mistakes or lacking vocabulary when using Irish publicly.
People want to speak Irish, but they're unsure where it’s welcomed and encouraged.
Employees want to support Irish speakers, but feel nervous about their own language skills and pronunciation.
Regular shopper looking to confidently speak Irish during everyday purchases
Low-fi prototype: a small sign inviting customers to say a phrase in Irish in exchange for a lollipop.
We tested our first concept in a real café setting. What we saw and what we heard shaped how we refined the experience to feel more natural, less intimidating, and easier to try.
Signage at the checkout inviting customers to say a phrase in Irish.
Utilising checkout dividers with Irish phrases to encourage conversation.
Staff hats indicating they speak Irish to encourage conversation.
Dual language price tags with Irish translations.