An eye chart was created using icons of equipment used in the construction industry. Several of these eye charts, which worked as effectively as the ‘Snellen Eye Chart’, were later distributed to illiterate construction workers across Dubai. The workers underwent a visual acuity test with the help of these charts as they could easily identify the icons. Those with poor vision were sent to an eyesight testing center for a through eye examination and later received free eyeglasses. Thus we ended up creating a design language that can be adapted and implemented across illiterate communities around the world.

Over a period of two months, more than 600 eye charts were distributed to illiterate labourers working in the construction industry. Promoters were hired to directly distribute these charts in key labour camps across Dubai and other places where these labourers frequented.

Over 7000 workers took the test. 33% of them suffered from poor vision and received free eye glasses. All this was made possible within a limited budget. Several workers pledged to get their eyes checked at least once a year. Thus we were able to change mindsets when it came to eye care.