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Students Redesigning PubHubs

Student Projects

In the fall of 2024, students from the UX Design and ‘’Het Internet is Stuk, maar we gaan het repareren’ minors at the Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences worked intensively on redesigning PubHubs. This platform provides a responsible solution for digital communication within public organizations. In collaboration with the product team at Radboud University and under the guidance of the Civic Interaction Design research group, the students explored ways to make PubHubs more user-friendly and accessible.

  • Published on:

    April 3, 2025

From Research to Design

Earlier that year, two exploratory studies were conducted, involving discussions with public organizations such as Kenniscloud (libraries), BovenJan and Mind (healthcare), the Municipality of Amsterdam, and various public broadcasters. Students used these insights as a foundation to further develop PubHubs and explore new concepts.

Both student groups used Kenniscloud as a case study for the project. Throughout the process, they focused on concept development and prototyping. They researched existing platforms, created sketches, and tested ideas with users. Then, they developed low- and high-fidelity prototypes, testing them with future users to gather valuable insights.

Design Challenges and Solutions

Given the scope of the project, students were asked to focus on one of the following themes during the design process. These sub-themes were formulated based on the key design challenges for the PubHubs platform and were further refined in consultation with the research group and students:

  1. A Central Hub – How can users quickly and easily find the right communities?
  2. A Warm Welcome – How can we create a smooth and secure onboarding experience?
  3. Vibrant Communities – What tools can help administrators build and sustain active groups?
  4. A Continuously Relevant Platform – How can shared information remain accessible and up-to-date?
  5. How is Anonymous Trustworthy? – What is the right balance between anonymity and connectedness on PubHubs?
  6. A Tool for Connection – How can users more easily connect with like-minded individuals?

On this website, we will share the students’ insights, prototypes, and design decisions in more detail for each sub-theme. Their work highlights how the design process can foster diverse solutions and showcases multiple approaches that have been explored.

Now that the project is complete, we are excited to share the results and insights gained throughout the process. Stay tuned for more updates!