Breaking down barriers to solve social injustices
Through the KC Chapter of Code for America, a non-profit group helping government and civic organizations create digital solutions to address social needsI have led the UX research and design work for multiple projects. This includes an expungement app called Clear My Record, a the Kansas Protection Order Portal, and a local government reporter app. I led these projects through research, strategy, design, testing, client collaboration, and development collaboration. Check out the sections below for more details about these projects.
Clear my record - a fresh start through expungement
Summary: I led the research and design work for two criminal expungement apps - in Missouri and Kansas. These apps, which help non-violent felons expunge their record, give individuals an opportunity to better support themselves, their families, and society. Through partnerships with UMKC Law School and Kansas Legal Services, the app enables attorneys to more quickly determine an applicant’s eligibility, complete the necessary paperwork, and file the expungement with the court.
Kansas Protection Order Portal - Safety and support
Summary: Prior to 2020, the process to get a protection order in Kansas was entirely in-person on paper. And when courthouse visits were no longer an option, I partnered with the State of Kansas and UMKC Law School to create a digital alternative. Carefully considering the intricacies involved with bringing this process into the home, where potential abusers could be, we created an app that is safe, secure, and supportive. Despite courthouses re-opening, this app is still widely used across the state.
Local government reporting app
Summary: This app is a way for journalists and community members to find information about local government meetings, including the when/where and the minutes from those meetings. As a way for community members to stay in-the-know, local governments can be held accountable. Through a partnership with The Beacon, a non-profit news outlet, journalists can access all the information they need to keep the public informed.
