(www.bl.uk)

In 2005, Platform3 worked with the British Library in developing their new Sound Portal project, looking at ways to open up the National Sound Archives for use particularly by schools, young people, and creative practitioners. We brought together key people from broadcast, government, education and specialist practitioners to examine ways to develop the content and functionality of the Sound Portal to engage children and adult learners, particularly those who are disenfranchised by traditional text-based teaching.

Together we developed some sample user journeys, demonstrating how young people and others might discover and respond to the Sound Portal, developing their own sound works using material from the archives, which then enter other media in the world at large.

Our report, with key findings from the event, contributed to the Library’s funding bid to Culture Online (DCMS); we also enhanced the marketing plan for the project.