Cocensus

Seam Social Labs, co-founded by Tiasia O’Brien and Michelle Brown, faced the critical challenge of engaging economically distressed communities effectively. Traditional surveying tools were inadequate in capturing the nuanced perspectives of these communities, which are often sidelined in urban development initiatives. The founders were driven by their personal experiences with gentrification in their childhood neighborhoods to create a solution that would not only gather but also amplify the voices of these communities.

• To address this challenge, Seam Social Labs developed Synergize Insights, a platform aimed at transforming how stakeholders interact with disinvested communities. The platform was designed to:
  • Facilitate Omni-directional Engagement: Seam Social Labs implemented a community-centric approach that emphasized listening and responding to the needs and feedback of the community members.
  • Democratize Data: By making data accessible and understandable, they empowered communities to have a say in the decisions that affect them.
  • Amplify Voices: Through technology, they provided a platform for these communities to share their stories and influence broader socio-economic policies.

   

The development process was highly collaborative, involving community members, local organizations, and stakeholders in a series of innovation sprints. This approach ensured that the tool was not only functional but also culturally sensitive and aligned with the community’s needs.

Synergize Insights was a resounding success, significantly improving the efficiency and impact of public engagement in revitalizing areas. By empowering disinvested communities to control their narratives and have their voices heard, Seam Social Labs has begun to bridge the civic gap. Their work has led to more inclusive community planning processes that take into account the diverse voices of all community members.

Our core mission has always been to empower those in disinvested communities. We believe that by giving them control of their stories and amplifying their voices, we can help effect real social change. Seeing our platform in action, facilitating meaningful conversations and leading to actionable insights, has been incredibly fulfilling. It reinforces our belief that technology can, indeed, be a force for good,” said Tiasia O’Brien, Co-founder of Seam Social Labs.