Malaria Threats Map
The Malaria Threats Map (MTM) is an interactive WHO platform that maps global data on the four biological threats to malaria control and elimination: invasive vector species, vector insecticide resistance, antimalarial drug efficacy and resistance, and parasite pfhrp2/3 gene deletions.
The brief
Through a multi-year partnership with WHO’s Global Malaria Programme (GMP) and a development team based in Spain, Lushomo was contracted to run an extensive UX research and design process to enhance the MTM. The aim was to employ user testing to inform the design of a new interface and functionality that effectively addressed real user needs.
Our approach
We started with a thorough assessment of the existing platform and interviews with users and stakeholders. We used these interviews, along with surveys, and testing (both moderated and unmoderated), to identify platform pain points and opportunities. We then moved into phases of iterative design and review, and assisted in development sprints to turn the designs into a functional application.
Visual language
The design follows GMP’s brand guidelines and uses bright, contrasting data points and charts against clean white backgrounds and pale blue-grey maps. This accessibility-led approach is enhanced by colour-coding and clear visual identifiers for each of the four themes so users can filter and navigate through the data with ease.
The deliverables
The fully redesigned platform includes an accessible interface and more advanced dashboards, filtering capabilities, data visualisation and download options.
The highlights
The MTM project highlights the importance of data visualisation in making complex information globally accessible. This is especially critical given alarming statistics, such as the fact that nearly half of the world's population was at risk of malaria in 2023, with an estimated 263 million cases and 597,000 deaths occurring just that year, primarily in Africa.
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