Based on the assumption that the technological system is assuming a leading role as a driver of socio-environmental development for contemporary societies, the “Design for Vulnerables – Technology Challenge” research project aims to define strategies to facilitate the adaptation of technological devices in the most vulnerable communities, with the aim of overcoming the socio-environmental threats that contribute to creating situations of vulnerabilities.

In a world where technology increasingly shapes the course of socio-environmental development, how can we ensure that vulnerable communities are not left behind, but instead are empowered through inclusive, context-aware design? This webinar explores this urgent question through the lens of participatory design in socio-ecologically fragile regions.

Grounded in research conducted in a semiarid area of Northern Mexico, this session presents a compelling look at how collaborative, community-centered approaches can drive technological adaptation in underserved areas. Attendees will be introduced to the conceptual framework of Design for Vulnerables, followed by two real-world case studies illustrating how marginalized communities co-designed solutions that respond directly to their environmental, social, and technological challenges.

Participants will gain insight into:

• The planning and analysis processes carried out with local communities.
• The tech-based and hub-oriented projects defined during participatory design efforts.
• The contextual challenges, such as energy limitations, and how they shaped each project’s development.
• Strategies to promote technological appropriation in vulnerable settings. Reflection on how inclusive design can be applied in their own institutions or projects.

This session is ideal for designers, planners, researchers, and policymakers seeking actionable strategies to address vulnerability through technology and participatory methodologies. Join us for a dynamic exchange that bridges innovation with inclusivity.

Register Today 

Presenters

Emanuele Giorgi, Research Director, Tecnológico de Monterrey Director of Research for the National School of Architecture, Art and Design of Tecnológico de Monterrey, he teaches and researches on social architecture issues and communities. In 2020 he published with Springer the book “The Co-Housing Phenomenon. Environmental Alliance in Times of Changes”, which won the Rómulo Garza Award for Research and Innovation in 2021. In 2022, he published the edited books “Design for Vulnerable Communities”. He is coordinating four research projects, among them, “Design for Vulnerables – Technology Challenge” research projects, focused on design solutions to facilitate technology adaptation in Mexican vulnerable communities.

Design for Vulnerables is the recipient of a 2025 AASHE Campus Sustainability Achievement Award. This webinar is part of a June showcase highlighting all winners in this category.