The Ask
The client seeks to develop an AI-powered chatbot that streamlines the business registration process in Kenya. They aim to enhance access to information, simplify the registration process, improve user experience through Human-Centered Design principles, and promote compliance with post-registration requirements. The goal is to reduce reliance on intermediaries and make the registration process more user-friendly and efficient.
The Observation
The business registration process in Kenya is perceived as complex and tedious, often hindered by technical language in official documentation. Many users struggle with name searches and registration costs, leading to a high reliance on brokers for assistance. Additionally, the lack of post-registration engagement from the Business Registration Service (BRS) creates compliance challenges. Insights gathered from user feedback indicate a pressing need for clearer information and guidance throughout the registration journey, as well as ongoing support to ensure users understand their compliance obligations.The Process
As the GIZ Kenya Fair Forward team embarked on a mission to streamline the business registration process, they recognized a pressing need for innovative solutions. They approached the project with a clear vision: to create an AI-powered chatbot that would transform the cumbersome registration experience for individuals and businesses alike. The team understood that many entrepreneurs in Kenya face significant challenges, from navigating complex registration processes to understanding compliance requirements.
Their ask was straightforward yet ambitious: “Help us enhance access to information, simplify the registration journey, and improve user experience through Human-Centered Design principles.” They envisioned a solution that would not only automate parts of the process but also provide clear, accessible information that empowers users to take charge of their business registration journey. By focusing on reducing reliance on intermediaries, they aimed to foster a more inclusive environment where every entrepreneur could easily register their business and remain compliant post-registration.
With this vision in mind, the GIZ and The Made team sought a collaborative approach to ensure that the chatbot truly meets the needs of its users, driving efficiency and promoting entrepreneurship across Kenya.
The Outcome
The ideathon successfully identified a focused use case for an AI chatbot that addresses a critical socio-economic challenge in Kenya. The winning team developed a prototype that demonstrated how the chatbot could contribute to the SDGs by improving access to vital information and services. The collaborative workshop approach ensured that the solution was rooted in local context, leveraging the experience of stakeholders. The project not only produced a prototype but also empowered participants with practical skills in human-centered design and AI-driven problem-solving.