Feel your mobility
Realized during:
2021 - 2024
Client
Academic Research (Self-initiated)
Role
Researcher, Interaction Designer
Partners

Supervisors: Valentina Tanni (Politecnico of Milano), Francesca Valsecchi (Tongji University)

Brief
The thesis builds on theoretical insights from philosophy, design, and behavioral economics to explore how aesthetically rich, interactive environments can influence individual behavior and promote sustainable social change. By focusing on the interconnectedness of individual actions, societal well-being, and environmental health, the research demonstrates the transformative potential of immersive media in addressing contemporary urban challenges.
Problem
Urban environments are predominantly car-centric, resulting in significant environmental and health issues. There is an urgent need to transition towards active mobility modes such as walking and cycling. Traditional approaches have been ineffective in substantially altering people's habits and perceptions regarding urban transportation, necessitating innovative solutions to engage citizens and evoke meaningful change.
Project Video
Feel your mobility
Analysis
Addressing commuting behavior as a theme for interactivity

Addressing Urban mobility as a theme for interactivity, the research studies the car-centric culture prevalent in urban environments, which has adverse environmental and health impacts. This study investigates how interaction design and immersive environments can encourage a shift towards more sustainable mobility choices, such as walking and cycling.

How aesthetic ux in immersive environments nudge social change?

  • Aesthetic experiences involve a heightened awareness and appreciation of the interplay between the individual and the world, leading to a sense of coherence, satisfaction, and flow.
  • User Experience Design Methodology (in the context of design thinking)
  • Immersive environments as the pinnacle of interaction design involving different senses through complex receptors and effectors
  • Nudging is the idea that little gently pushes toward a habit in the long period have huge social benefits.
  • The Society-centered design approach advocates for individuals’ agency in their environment. Designing for the collectivity rather than for the mere individual.

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Feel your mobility
Solution
From generative visuals to collective interaction

Building on the desk research a user research was conducted to evaluate commuting experience. Based on insights i designed a.

This was tested in the first phase of the research at Politecnico, gaining some insights on the emotion evoked through the activity.

After that was developed the final concept of the installation, the use of collective interaction as a source of data for the modification of the environment.

People can see how the environment shift from distopic to utopic based on their behavior, making them reflect on the nature of everyday habits and their impacts on society and urban environment.

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Feel your mobility
Final Consideration

The research found that immersive and interactive environments significantly alter users' perceptions of urban mobility. Participants reported heightened awareness and a stronger inclination towards sustainable practices after engaging with the immersive experiences.

The discussion highlights the implications of these findings for design practice. Aesthetic UX and interaction design can create experiences that not only inform but also inspire users to make positive changes, promoting sustainability and health in urban environments.

The insights gained from this project have broader applications. Similar approaches could be adapted to address other ecological and social challenges, leveraging the power of immersive media and interaction design to foster positive change.

In conclusion, this research demonstrates the transformative potential of immersive media and aesthetic UX in driving social change. By creating compelling, interactive experiences, we can nudge individuals towards more sustainable and healthier mobility choices, ultimately contributing to better urban living.

If it is for a job, a collaboration, or a conversation, don’t hesitate to contact me wherever you prefer.
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