Data prototypes
Test ways to collect, organize, explore and communicate useful data.
SOMDAS LAB
Ideas tested against
real needs.
An experimentation space where evidence, design and technology come together to shape useful prototypes.
Enter the Lab →QUESTION+EVIDENCE+TEST
04Make the idea tangible.
WHY THE LAB
Make the idea tangible.
Learn before scaling.
SOMDAS Lab turns research questions and local insights into things people can examine, test and improve. It creates a structured space between an early idea and a dependable solution.
Work may include rapid prototypes, data tools, AI experiments and service concepts. The goal is not to present every experiment as a finished product, but to learn responsibly and carry strong ideas forward.
WHAT WE EXPERIMENT WITH
A workshop for
public-interest innovation.
The Lab combines technical exploration with user needs, evidence and practical constraints.
AI experiments
Evaluate responsible AI approaches against a clearly defined need.
Service design
Understand users, workflows and constraints before building technology.
Proofs of concept
Turn promising ideas into demonstrable, testable early products.
THE LAB CYCLE
Observe. Prototype.
Test. Improve.
Short, documented cycles reveal what works, what fails and what should happen next.
- 01
Observe
Define the need, context and assumptions.
- 02
Prototype
Make the smallest useful version of the idea.
- 03
Test
Gather evidence from real use and technical evaluation.
- 04
Improve
Refine, stop or prepare the idea for responsible delivery.
LAB04
RESPONSIBLE EXPERIMENTATION
Useful is not enough.
It must also be appropriate.
Lab work considers data quality, safety, accessibility, transparency and the people affected. Experiments are documented with limitations, and promising prototypes move forward only when there is a clear reason to continue.
Different doors.
One shared mission.
Explore how every SOMDAS program contributes to Somalia’s data and AI ecosystem.
04
SOMDAS Lab
Prototypes shaped by evidence and real needs.
You’re hereBUILD WITH THE LAB
Have a problem worth
testing together?
Bring a real need, relevant knowledge and a willingness to learn through evidence. We can explore whether the Lab is the right place to begin.