Lesson Summary
We have now entered a new term, with a focus on the concept of experience—both in terms of exploring it and experimenting with how it can be created and understood. In today’s session, we began by examining a series of definitions that distinguish between various roles and forms of engagement, which are crucial when designing experiences across different mediums.
The term user was particularly emphasized and was contrasted with other related terms:
- Audience – someone who watches
- Customer – someone who buys
- User – someone who actively engages or does
- Character – someone who performs
- Player – someone who plays
- Avatar – someone or something that replaces the self in a virtual or narrative space
This breakdown highlighted how the notion of a user is often at the center when we speak about creating interactive or immersive experiences. It was humorously noted that the only individuals who refer to customers as users are drug dealers—underscoring the importance of using terminology precisely, especially in fields like design, technology, and media.
We were also introduced to the work of artist and world-builder Ian Cheng, particularly his speculative science fiction project Life After BOB. This animated film and the subsequent installation, which was exhibited in Berlin, offer a compelling example of how narrative, technology, and audience experience can be integrated. Cheng is known for his expertise in constructing complex digital worlds and interactive systems, and his interviews were recommended as valuable resources for further insight into innovative experience design.
This lesson not only introduced foundational terminology but also encouraged us to think critically about how different kinds of users engage with experiences, systems, and narratives—an essential perspective for any creative or research-driven practice in experience design.
Ideation
After the introduction to experience design, I began generating ideas for my experimental project:
- Extension of my FMP
Develop the balloon dog further by making it interactive, allowing for greater audience engagement and memorability.
2. Experiments on my FMP
Test whether plain 3D animation is sufficient or if additional elements—such as interactivity or immersion—are necessary.
3. My Areas of Interest
- Stop-motion
- Interactive Installation
Regardless of the direction, I must define a clear target audience and consistently design the experience around their needs and expectations.