Report on the Design-A-Thon

NIST hosted a Design-A-Thon to explore creative ways to educate users about cybersecurity for digital products like IoT devices. Participants developed strategies ranging from storybook manuals and songs for children’s toys to gamified apps and targeted support features for home security systems. The event showed how human-centered design, accessibility, and tailored communication can make cybersecurity guidance more effective and engaging. Insights from the exercise may inform future standards and practical guidance for industry and policymakers.