Bringing Joy Back to Thesis

Midterm PreviewKatherine LeeMarch 9, 2009

Latest Physical Prototype

Issues:– Not logical– Triangles are an

overwhelming aesthetic constraint

– Not joyful

Dunkin Donuts Make Your Own Donut

Marvel Create Your Own Super Hero

Spore Creature Creator

Latest User Interface Prototype

User Testing

• Detailing is too pronounced• The form is not very wearable and might be

considered as more for artistic value rather than for consumption

• User customization tools need to be used to create products that you care about and that reflect something about yourself

• There is a serious need for customizable tools for clothing

What I Learned

• Suspension of reality/disbelief is only appropriate for products that are not for everyday, public consumption

• There must be joy in the customization process

• If the product doesn’t align with their perceived public image, they won’t buy it

concept

An effective customization tool must empower the user to make something they personally connect with, or in some way incorporates the user’s feelings or persona, in order for the user to have a sense of ownership over their creation.

What I Propose to Make

A customization tool that allows the user to design and order a plush creature or pillow in any likeness starting with…– A selection of base body forms– Eyes, ears, and mouths– Legs, arms, horns, other appendages, etc.– Skin from custom uploads (custom digital printing)

or an existing selection or pre-chosen prints

Make My Own Monster

Why?

• There is currently nothing like this, where you can digitally design your own plush object and have it created – Closest things include Build-a-Bear workshop

(shudder) and super-expensive monster kit• People feel an affinity for plush objects and

pillows – they’re comfortable and can assume many identities– they can have a personal value separate from your

public persona

For Symposium

• Demo of customization tool• 3+ examples of objects created with tool• Vision

Schedule

Week of:• March 7 – UX / base forms locked• March 21 – put all forms in Flash• March 28 – program selection tool• April 4 – selection tool, visualization tool• April 11 – make demo products• April 18 – more demo products + QA for site• April 26 – QA for site

Life After Symposium

• Functioning customization tool• Post user creations• Order your own creation• Make most popular creations available

Thanks!