Goal of the Project

During the development of Lexitype, it was important that the typeface was coherent for both normal users and users who struggle with Dyslexia. The rigorous testing ensured the typeface's legibility and functionality in different settings like, publications, advertisements, documents, etc.

Vision and Innovation

Lexitype aims to be a user-friendly and functional typeface for both normal users and users who struggle with Dyslexia. Its open-source model makes it accessible for both personal and commercial use, hence increasing its effectiveness.

Identifying the Challenges

The main challenge that was recognized was how expensive the only available typeface for Dyslexia was, making it quite inaccessible for both personal and commercial use. Therefore, companies and personal users often steer clear of any sort of accessibility or inclusion in any media. Moreover, its important to note that the available typeface had less testing done on it compared to what was developed by me and the Dyslexia Association of Maldives (DAM).

Resolving Problems

To address these challenges, I conducted multiple waves of tests during the development of the typeface with the help of willing participants from DAM and some more that heard about my project through social media. Multiple stages of reading, typing, and comparison tests helped shape the typeface become more functional and legible. With a pool of almost 50 willing participants, the results of the tests helped develop the typeface to what it is today. Also, the decision to keep the typeface open-source meant that it was accessible to all for free and helps promote inclusion in different media.

User-Tested Design

The design of the typeface went through multiple stages, starting with comparisons of popular everyday typefaces that some people find easier to read. With these comparisons the initial designs for the letters were formed and tested to further enhance and refine its legibility across both printed and digital mediums.

Notable Features

• The overall design is not too out-there that it looks unprofessional and can be used in commercial and professional settings as well

• Has a proven overall legibility percentage of 92% in 5 different tests

• Is open-source for both commercial and personal use

User Accessibility

Lexitype is fully open-source and is planned to stay that way in the future. The typeface has been used in both commercial and personal settings and has been downloaded by many.

Conclusion

Lexitype was one of the most exciting projects to have worked on. Not only did it help many, it also helped me open my eyes on how to creatively approach problems and to always 'think outside the box'. The typeface will remain in its open-source model as I believe such tools should not be inaccessible, especially when it could really make a difference. You can access the font here.