This paper describes a qualitative design research study investigated through the development and application of novel qualitative research methods and tools, developed to engage research participants, and resulting in an original means of communicating findings. The topic being investigated required working closely with older people to explore their individual experiences around the topic of retirement.

The research was designed to engage and empower retirees in reflection, discussion, creation and representation of their experiences. The main project output consisted of seven retirement tales referred to as ‘narrative timelines’ in this paper, which were communication pieces designed to present the more ‘messy’ research findings towards supporting empathy in discussions affecting the creation of products or services around retirement. These rich and visual communication pieces moved beyond clichéd personas to include ‘real voices’ and insights into unpredictable and complex life experiences, the process aiming to facilitate a better communication and hence understanding of individuals highly personal experiences.

ISBN: 978-1-912294-30-5