Learning by Doing: Co-Designing with End Users to [En]vision a Personal Computer Based Memory Aid

Candidate: Gilly Mah
Type: Master of Applied Science, Interactive Art (MASc-IA), School of Interactive Arts and Technology
Date: July 19, 2006
Senior Supervisor: Dr. Jim Budd
Thesis: Download Thesis Document

Abstract

Today’s computing technology is incorporated more extensively in the design of products to support people in their everyday lives. With this change we are beginning to recognize that interactive product functions emerge over use and time, which raises new challenges for interaction designers.


Recent exploratory research suggests that a re-examination of traditional methodologies would be beneficial as current approaches are proving insufficient. Traditional methods typically involve end users as passive informants in contrast to participatory design methods where users co-design throughout the design process.


This study examines the value of new design methods vs. traditional design methods by engaging practicing designers to compare and evaluate design specifications based on the different methods. The specifications for the design scenario in the study are generated from data synthesized from questionnaires, interviews, observation and [en]vision workshops. The findings, reinforced by a web survey, provide evidence of the benefits to implementing these new methods.