The project adopted a multi-phase, evidence-based design methodology that combined research, co-creation, and prototyping:
 

PHASE 1: Research Design

• Conducted stakeholder workshops with representatives from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, the International Center for Research on Women, and local partners to define objectives and align on research tools.

• Developed interview guides, observation frameworks, and consent protocols to ensure culturally sensitive data collection.
   

PHASE 2: Literature Review and Hypothesis Framing

• Analyzed over 100 publications from PubMed and JSTOR on family planning in South Asia, identifying gaps in the couple-focused approach.

• Framed five hypotheses addressing socio-economic influences, communication dynamics, and cultural norms affecting family planning decisions.
   

PHASE 3: Primary Data Collection

• Conducted field visits across six diverse locations (Darbhanga, Purnea, Begusarai, Kanpur, Gorakhpur Rural, and Gorakhpur Urban).

• Engaged with 36 young couples (with fewer than two children), employing ethnographic methods, in-depth interviews, and focus group discussions.

• Captured insights on aspirations, decision-making dynamics, barriers to contraceptive use, and sources of influence.
   

PHASE 4: Data Analysis

• Applied thematic analysis to identify patterns and insights, focusing on couple dynamics, socio-economic influences, and regional variances.

• Developed a Theory of Change outlining how couple-focused interventions could drive sustainable improvements in family planning adoption.

• Created a design framework to guide the development of solutions, highlighting key leverage points in the couple’s decision-making journey.
   

PHASE 5: Solution Prototyping

• Pioneered a Partner-Embedded Prototyping System, collaborating with local implementation partners, policymakers, and domain experts.

• Facilitated workshops to co-develop 26 prototype solutions, ranging from digital tools to community-based interventions.

• Prototypes addressed themes such as improving spousal communication, enhancing access to FP services, and leveraging aspirational messaging.
   

PHASE 6: Testing with Partners

• Designed a Measurement, Learning, and Evaluation (MLE) Framework to assess the impact, scalability, and feasibility of prototypes.

• Conducted Partner-Embedded Prototype Validation, testing the solutions in collaboration with NGOs, healthcare providers, and government bodies.

• Iterated prototypes based on field feedback, ensuring alignment with cultural and operational contexts.
   

PHASE 7: Knowledge Dissemination

• Developed an open-source micro-site to share insights, frameworks, and prototypes with global stakeholders.

• Published research papers, articles, and white papers to contribute to the global discourse on family planning.

• Organized webinars and workshops to disseminate findings and facilitate knowledge exchange.