Initially a behind-the-scenes network of global aid experts, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation—the world’s largest philanthropic organisation—realised that developing a high-profile public presence would substantively affect the good it can perform. To introduce itself and its work to the world, the Foundation wished to use cutting-edge digital environments to teach people about issues the foundation is dedicated to solving; to inspire people to see how they too can make a positive impact in the world; and to make philanthropy real and instantly doable for everyday citizens.

The adventurous experiences—from a giant Twitter-enabled interactive map and a towering digital scroll where visitors can post ideas to personal interactive kiosks—were designed to encourage idea sharing and real-world action. In addition to large touch-screens, users control digital screens with physical inputs such as wooden sliders, levers and a wooden globe, designed to complement the building's warm, tactile design. These simple and delightful interfaces transform visitors from observers into knowledgeable participants who are actively engaged in the Foundation’s real-world work.

The new Gates Foundation Visitor Centre has met with resounding praise from the press, tech blogs, visitors, and Bill Gates himself. It’s been called ‘upbeat, empowering and absorbing’ and in its first month had visitors from 33 US states and 20 countries.