A Comprehensive Study On Work–Life Balance And Young Women’s Sense Of Safety In Workplaces And Public Spaces: The Role Of Accessible, Preventive, And User-Friendly Solutions

Abstract

Women’s participation in the workforce has increased significantly, yet challenges related to work–life balance and personal safety continue to affect their well-being and productivity. This study examines the relationship between work–life balance and women’s sense of safety in workplaces and public spaces. It focuses on the role of accessible, preventive, and easy-to-use solutions in enhancing safety and supporting a healthy balance between professional and personal life. Using primary and secondary data, the study analyzes women’s perceptions, experiences, and expectations regarding safety measures and organizational support systems. The findings aim to highlight practical interventions that can improve women’s sense of security, reduce stress, and promote sustainable work–life balance, thereby contributing to inclusive and supportive work environments.

Women's safety in public spaces is a significant social issue, especially in cities where women often travel alone for school, work, and personal reasons. Fear, anxiety, and uncertainty frequently impact their daily travel choices, leading them to avoid certain routes, limit their travel times, and rely on others. While some safety-related solutions exist, most focus on emergencies instead of prevention and comfort. 

This article uses Stage Three (Ideation) and Stage Four (Prototyping and Testing) of the Design Thinking process to tackle this challenge. The goal is to come up with various creative ideas, evaluate and select the best solution, build a prototype, and improve it based on user feedback. 

Women’s safety in public spaces is not just about crime; it also includes the emotional aspects of fear, vulnerability, and uncertainty that women encounter during daily travel. Research and personal experiences show that women often take protective measures, like avoiding certain routes, limiting their travel times, or relying on trusted contacts. These behaviors impact their independence and quality of life. Addressing both physical and perceived safety is crucial. 

Design thinking is well-suited for this challenge because it focuses on human experience. By emphasizing empathy, ideation, experimentation, and iteration, design thinking promotes the creation of solutions that are both functional and emotionally supportive. This assignment adopts a design-thinking approach to investigate how preventive, user-centered measures can enhance women’s sense of safety in public spaces.