Prof Mugendi M’Rithaa is based at Machakos University in Kenya. Apart from his expertise on Universal Design (UD), Mugendi brings an established network to rapidly advancing African economies.
Profile
Dynamic and focused
Vision | Mission | Values
Our vision is to address unmet emotional and function needs. Our mission is to research critical insights, and to design with a depth of theory and best of practice. Our values are to be innovative, sustainable, ethical, and transparent.
Model
Our operating model is designed around client needs. Project teams and supplier networks are organised to cater for each unique project requirement. If we do not have specific in-house skills, we will source and manage contractors for the duration of the project.
Clients
Our clients are international and include blue-chip corporations, local governments, university departments, entrepreneurial start-ups, non-profit companies, and technology companies. They are based in South Africa, Taiwan, and the United States of America. The end-customers who engage with research + DESIGN solutions are global, though predominately based in South Africa, the United States of America, India, China, New Zealand, Namibia, Kenya, and Japan.
Management
Dr Byron Qually is the founder and director of research + DESIGN. He has over twenty-years of international experience, and holds a Master of Technology (MTech) degree from the Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) in South Africa, and a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree in design from the Open University (OU) in England. Apart from his directorship role, he actively promotes African research and design capabilities through industry board positions, academic advisory panels, and general public media channels.
Associates
Our professional associates are:
Dr Keneilwe Munyai is an academic based in Cape Town, South Africa. Keneilwe's expertise on design thinking, with a particular focus on African models, helps uncover key and unforseen insights.
Networks
Our networks are international, proven, and directly accessible. We place an emphasis on building relationships, and introduce our clients to their project suppliers. Clients can negotiate and invoice suppliers directly without incurring third party mark-up costs.