Networking Platform for Volunteers and Staff at Tafel Deutschland
Innovation
Every day, 75,000 people contribute to the Tafel mission – 94% of them on a voluntary basis. They are the heart of one of Germany’s largest social movements. To strengthen their impact and improve collaboration, a digital platform was created that enables nationwide exchange, knowledge sharing, and mutual support.
The Assignment
Tafel Deutschland wanted to strengthen the connection between its roughly 60,000 volunteers and around 5,000 full-time staff. The goal was to create a digital infrastructure that fosters cross-organizational exchange, enables quick support between local Tafeln, and makes best practices shareable. The result is a user-friendly platform, co-developed with its users, that sustainably improves communication and collaboration.
Our Approach
1. Needs Assessment & Goal Definition
We conducted interviews and workshops with volunteers and staff to gather key requirements. Goals included easy communication, knowledge transfer, mutual support, and an intuitive user experience.
2. User-Centered, Iterative Development
The platform was co-developed with volunteers and staff in iterative cycles – tested, refined, and adapted to real-world needs. The result is a solution rooted in users’ everyday realities.
3. Focus on UX/UI, Accessibility & Inclusion
Particular attention was paid to older and less digitally experienced users. Clear structures, intuitive navigation, accessible design (contrast, font size, icons), and plain language ensure broad usability.
4. Leveraging Existing Technologies & Supporting Implementation
The platform was built on existing technical infrastructure for efficiency and sustainability. Local rollouts were supported through trainings and digital onboarding materials.
The Result
The platform is now actively used across Germany and strengthens collaboration within the Tafel network. It enables knowledge sharing, faster peer support across locations, and more effective communication. Its accessible design makes it inclusive even for those less comfortable with digital tools – contributing to greater digital participation in one of Germany’s largest civil society networks.
- Concept development and facilitation of the participatory design process
- User research and UX guidance with a focus on accessibility
- Technology consulting and inclusive system design
- Support with implementation, training, and community activation
