Bachelor’s thesis
Using visual language for public safety.
Category
Research Application Design Print
Time
Summer 2025
Focus
Research Concept & Design
Team
Alicia Link
Our bachelor’s thesis examined symbol-based communication in the field of civil protection and disaster preparedness. This project includes a digital tool designed to overcome language barriers during rescue operations, as well as a fold-out poster that addresses personal preparedness and self-efficacy in civil protection—supplemented by infographics on fire extinguishers and emergency supplies.
One of the outcomes of our work is a fold-out poster that addresses prevention and how to respond in an emergency. Through this medium, we aim to encourage people to actively engage with emergencies and disaster preparedness.
We have compiled this content from international and national guidelines and revised the language. We use short sentences and clear, easy-to-remember phrasing. In addition, the instructions are always accompanied by visual aids.
This digital application constitutes the second part of the project. It is designed to bridge communication gaps between emergency responders and patients through the use of symbols. This allows language barriers to be overcome more easily. In stressful situations, patients feel better understood and are not further overwhelmed by the application's design.
The application is designed to be a tool for emergency services—robust and adaptable to the individual at any time. This applies to the language, its format, and the output. Symbol support can be selected as an optional feature.
