Tone
Empathy through digital-mediated communication
Thesis MFA Interaction Design | Jan to May 2023 | 18 weeks individual work.
The goal of this project is rather an open-ended design exploration into the interaction design question between the communication technology we developed today and our natural ability to understand and share feelings, known as empathy. Visit my project in the project gallery at UID23.
◉ Enter the scene
Have you ever been staring at a message for a long time?
How has been that experience for you?
Please take a pause before scrolling down :)
Design + Empathy
We have heard the word “Empathy” all the time.
In today’s digital landscape, communication faces new challenges. While technology has connected us globally, digital channels often hinder clear expression and understanding. Can design play a role in supporting Empathy in digital communication?
This project utilizes design thinking to delve into everyday digital interactions, specifically exploring empathy gaps in asynchronous communication.
Through prototyping and iterations, the author introduces a concept proposal leveraging AI to promote diversity and nurture empathy, aiming to transform online text-based communication.
◉ Main research question
Can design play a role in supporting the practice of empathy in online communication?
◉ Outcome
Introducing “Tone”
“Tone” is a small plug-in that can be integrated into a common online work communication platform.
The concept visualizations serve as communication material to urge the audience to think about the new role of technology in our everyday social communications, and further provoke discussions about whether we can design AI to train us to practice Empathy?
1. Seamless
A seamless window will pop up when AI detects that you are typing a sensitive message that can be understood negatively.
2. Tone of Voice sentiment
Showing you the smart tone of voice interpretation of your own messages.
3. Diverse perspective
Providing users with different interpretations of their messages, and broadening your awareness of the fact that the message can be understood in various ways.
4. Personalization
Let tone know specific situations in your conversation with your partner.
5. Mindfulness
A mindfulness reminder that pops up when it senses stress in your texts or how you’re typing. Prompts deep breaths and reflection before sending rushed messages.
◉ Image dump of thesis journey
◉ Exhibitions
Public speaking to engage with 100+ audiences about my degree project.
Presented a poster in a 3-day open exhibition in the city of Umeå
Before the public presentation, I was afraid that people would think my project was wacky, but once on stage, fellow students and some design companies cheered my emotional appeal. I am very happy about this result.
During the exhibition, people have come to me and said that they like my project. Someone said that it is an honest design. Another person told me she has autism and said it might help her because she has an even harder time getting to know other people and understanding their feelings from text messages.
Press: I was being interviewed as a graduate student by Resume Stockholm at the UID event.
I want to share this quote as a final note in my thesis.
"Communication is challenging? Yes! But it's also fascinating. The ranger of human cultures can be a source of endless surprise and discovery - a fount of remarkable experiences and continual learning that can never be exhausted."
—<the Cultural Map>
◉ Future directions 💪
Recent developments after the thesis coming soon…
◉ Learnings (a lot 🙏
Well, doing a thesis is never easy. It is a journey to find myself. I would like to share some thoughts with people who will be interested.
IXD thesis memes
1. Mental Health and Reflection:
Recognizing the importance of taking time to reflect on my process has been crucial. I have learned to prioritize my mental well-being, allowing myself the necessary space for introspection before finalizing my work. This has enabled me to approach the project with clarity and a sense of purpose.
2. Topic Selection and Process Management:
Evaluating available resources and carefully considering my topic selection were key lessons. I have realized the significance of staying focused and, when feeling lost, retracing my steps, asking questions, and finding my path again. Effective process management has played a pivotal role in achieving project goals.
3. Collaboration and Ego:
Design is not a solitary endeavor. I have learned to leave
my ego aside and embrace the fact that design is just one of many professions capable of making an impact. Engaging
in conversations and seeking input from others has proven invaluable, highlighting the importance of collaboration in the design process.
4. Embracing Uncertainty and Perfectionism:
Embracing uncertainty and acknowledging imperfections have been transformative learning experiences. I have come to understand that the design journey is riddled with unknowns, and it is in these moments of uncertainty that innovation and growth can flourish.
5. Project Management:
Effective project management has been a vital skill I have honed throughout this process. Balancing tasks, setting realistic expectations, and staying organized have allowed me to navigate the complexities of the thesis project successfully.
6. Dealing with Emotions and Conflicted Situations:
Learning how to manage emotions while working on a longer-term design project has been an essential lesson. I have encountered situations where conflicts arose, but I have come to accept that making mistakes is a natural part of the design process. It is through these experiences that I have grown both personally and professionally.
7. Overcoming Fears and Self-Doubt:
The thesis journey often encompasses fears and moments of self-doubt. I have grappled with these emotions, learning to navigate them while maintaining focus and confidence. It has been an arduous yet transformative process, allowing me to confront my fears and emerge stronger.
8. Continuous Learning and Changing Perspective:
Completing a thesis has illuminated the fact that a true understanding of the thesis focus often crystallizes only at the project’s end. I have come to appreciate that everything can be viewed from multiple perspectives, and every experience holds positive value.
In conclusion, this thesis project has served as a personal journey to practice empathy as a designer in action. I have encountered challenges, experienced stress, and grappled with uncertainties. However, these experiences have led to growth, resilience, and a deeper understanding of the design process.
Contact me
I would love to hear your thoughts! Please write your comments below or send me an email via ruwa0009@gmail.com.
Cheers, Ruoyun