At the start of my sketchbook is a series of initial concepts, all of which are quite different to one another. These were partially created as part of an idea generating exercise (‘brainstorming’), as well as to explore different directions the brief could be taken.
The first initial concept was a device, largely inspired by Polaroid cameras. My aim with this was to create a product that functioned in a similar manner to a Polaroid, where the user has to be more conscious of the photo being taken, as photograph film is a limited resource. Rather than developing film, I intended this standalone device to either store a finite number of photos which could be digitally transferred to another device or to instantly transfer the photos. A ‘cool down’ feature, only allowing the user to take a certain number of photos in a set time frame (e.g. 1 photo per hour max) would encourage the user to take even more consideration when thinking about what photos to take.
This product is intended to discourage people from viewing nature through their cameras on their phones. This standalone product is designed to be as small as possible, with only one button to capture a photo, and a viewfinder. I created a rapid prototype to see how the people on my table would use it: for example Robbie liked having a button in the middle of the device, whereas Rory and Harris preferred to have the capture button on the side of the device, more similar to a normal camera.
Another concept I explored was a social-media based app that I initially explored in my Digital Interaction mood board from the initial three weeks of this module. This app would encourage the user to take photos during walks in their local natural areas, so that other walkers or amateur photographers be informed about scenic areas close to them. This app would include a rating system, allow commenting on photos and would show users on a map the locations and photos.
My third initial concept is an audio streaming/broadcasting service, which I ended up pursuing through the module. In my sketchbook I refer to Spotify playlists of ambient music and site this as an inspiration. This is a service which could be used by people to aid sleep, studying, concentrating and meditation. Sketchbook drawings show the 2×2 tile style of UI used in the developed app design.
My final initial concept is ‘eLeaf’, a smart home style device, designed to be less intrusive and contribute to a natural visual aesthetic. This concept would use e-ink (same method Kindle e-readers use) to present information and would be voice operated. To make this device as unobtrusive as possible, it would have no verbal response feature. The display, shaped like a leaf, would display the time and weather, as well as calendar events and ‘wellness’ reminders, such as encouraging users to take breaks and walks outdoors.
As soon as I had done some quick research and meditated on the brief we had been given, I knew I wanted to focus on the broadcasting approach. I chose the focus of the interaction – nature sounds – as I personally use pre-recorded ambient nature audio to help me concentrate when I’m studying, meditating, or sometimes even just as relaxing background noise. This focus not only reflects my personality and is something I would actually use, but also has a lot of scope and closely relates to our brief.