31 This ensures that the tools are usable and practical for individuals who may not have access to high-end technology. Incorporating relevant data sets and features into these tools is also crucial. This means including climate data and building typologies specific to the Global South. Integrating regional specifics makes the tools more relevant and valuable for local users, allowing them to apply the research findings more effectively to their contexts. For instance, incorporating data on local weather patterns, soil types, and traditional building materials can significantly enhance the applicability of these tools. Modernizing and incorporating vernacular knowledge within tools is a crucial step. Local, traditional knowledge often contains valuable insights and solutions that have been refined over generations. By contemporizing this knowledge and integrating it into modern tools, researchers can create more holistic and effective solutions that resonate with local communities. This approach not only respects and preserves indigenous knowledge but also enhances the accuracy and relevance of the research findings for the Global South, making the tools more comprehensive and impactful. What are the exogenous factors that we might not be able to fix but must consider when working in the Global South? When working in the Global South, several exogenous factors might not be able to be fixed, but we must consider them to ensure the effectiveness and sustainability of our projects. These factors include intersectional issues, governance quality, and the reliance on governmental support and enforcement. Firstly, intersectional issues play a significant role in the success of solutions. Solutions might not address the needs of men and women equally, and this disparity can impact the overall effectiveness of the project. Gender dynamics, cultural norms, and societal roles can vary greatly and influence how different groups interact with and benefit from proposed solutions. Acknowledging and addressing these differences is crucial to creating more inclusive and equitable outcomes. Secondly, governance quality is a critical factor. Many solutions assume that the governments we are working with are stable, protect liberties, ensure property rights, and are free from corruption. However, this is not always the case in the Global South. Projects that do not consider the possibility of weak or corrupt governance might struggle to be successful. It is essential to recognize that the effectiveness of projects relying on government intervention, subsidies, or enforcement is inherently linked to the capability and integrity of the local government.
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