Enchanting Computing

I have just read an interesting paper called Intimate Objects by two students at Ithaca NY – Joel Kaye and Liz Goulding. The paper is describing their researching and prototyping process of their intimate communication device for LDR’s. It makes a couple of interesting points in that it strongly maes clear the objectives and limitations of the intended device right from the outset. It also validates the project by noting how it is supporting the evolution from “efficient” computing to “enchanting” computing.

Alao from a usability perspective it was interesting to see them use particpatory design and ask actual test couples how they would envision this device to look. I think this is important with this kind of device as it is designed to be so personal there needs to be some reflection of the actual users in it.