Plataforma de Informação para o Fogo - Como melhorar o Engagement através de tecnologias interativas e Design Centrado no Utilizador

Abstract

The communication of Wildfire knowledge on the web is extensive, with numerous sources distributing information on the topic. However, most of the content available targets specialists, researchers, and stakeholders, failing to engage wider non-specialized audiences. Integrated into the FIRE-RES Project, our goal is twofold: 1) understand how Multimedia Interactive Technologies can improve engagement and make Fire Knowledge more accessible and intuitive, and 2) create a Fire Information Platform that aggregates information on Fire resilience. The research methodology is divided into two phases. The first is focused on understanding the research context and target audience and uses a mix of traditional and user-centered research methods: Literature Review on Risk and Science Communication on the web and possibilities of Multimedia Technologies; UX Benchmarking of selected solutions; Online survey with the targeted audience, and 4) Collaborative Ideation session. The survey gathered 811 answers that revealed the general understanding, habits, and information sources regarding wildfire knowledge. In addition to that, we selected five web solutions and explored three multimedia features adopted to enhance information dissemination: gamification, interactivity, and narratives. These data informed the second phase, which involved an analysis of the preliminary results and the design of high-fidelity prototypes. These were later subjected to usability testing with a few relevant personas. Ultimately, the study reveals the potential of Digital Technologies in Science Communication and demonstrates that adopting a user-centered approach facilitates content adaptation to users and increases engagement, accessibility, and knowledge retention. By making essential fire information more intuitive and engaging for different audiences, we expect to contribute to wildfire prevention in Portugal and abroad.