About Portable
Portable: Creating Transformational Change through Research, Design and Technology
Portable is a company that is dedicated to creating transformational change in areas where social need and policy failure intersect. They achieve this by using research, design, and technology to develop innovative solutions that address complex social issues.
Founded in 2002, Portable has grown into a leading consultancy firm with offices in Melbourne, Sydney, London and New York. Their team of experts includes researchers, designers, technologists and strategists who work together to create impactful solutions for their clients.
One of the key strengths of Portable is their ability to combine research with design thinking. They use rigorous research methods to gain insights into the needs of communities and stakeholders affected by social issues. This information is then used to inform the design process which results in innovative solutions that are both effective and user-friendly.
Another important aspect of Portable's approach is their use of technology. They leverage cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML) and blockchain to create scalable solutions that can have a significant impact on society.
Portable has worked on a wide range of projects across different sectors including healthcare, education, government services and not-for-profit organizations. Some examples include:
- Developing an AI-powered chatbot for Beyond Blue - an Australian mental health organization - which provides support for people experiencing anxiety or depression.
- Creating an online platform for The Smith Family - an Australian charity - which helps disadvantaged children access educational resources.
- Designing a mobile app for the City of Melbourne which allows residents to report maintenance issues such as potholes or broken streetlights.
In addition to their client work, Portable also runs several initiatives aimed at promoting innovation in social impact projects. These include:
- The Social Impact Lab - a program that provides funding and support for early-stage social enterprises.
- The Civic Tech Hub - a community space where technologists can collaborate on projects aimed at improving civic life.
- The Social Impact Fellowship - a program that provides training and mentorship for emerging leaders in the social impact sector.
Overall, Portable's commitment to creating transformational change through research, design and technology sets them apart from other consultancy firms. Their innovative approach has resulted in numerous successful projects across different sectors while also contributing towards building more resilient communities around the world.