Portfolio » Flirting with Technology

Master's thesis exploring new uses of ubiquitous technologies for romantic interactions

Sometimes we see a person we might be romantically interested in, but are too shy to directly approach them giving our phone number. The thesis focuses on ways to 'mark' this person, enabling the system to arrange future 'accidental' encounters.

My solution for users to 'mark' and make themselves 'markable' by others, uses personal patterned clothes and accessories. The patterns contain a unique visual code that can be read using a mobile phone.

Visit the project website, part of IDII, Italy

User Research, Prototyping, Interaction Design, Video and Photo Scenarios

Research

I conducted extensive research, which included interviewing experts on technology and love, studying relevant anthropology, sociology, and psychology texts, and facilitating sessions of very lively user research. This helped me formalize my approach, provide a solid basis for my work, and create the initial concept for the service.

Social Consequences

The concept consists of creating links between people, 'marking' them in public. This public interaction has socials consequences that needed to be carefully considered; that is users want to make themselves 'markable' by others without being perceived as needy or desparate. I explored various technologies and objects that could achieve this goal, while testing the boundaries of what's acceptable.

Patterned Personal Objects

Each user receives a unique pattern that is applied to all clothes and accessories they order from the service. These unique and stylish patterns become a layer of personal branding that can be added to a user's wardrobe. While wearing these special clothes and accessories, users make themselves 'markable' to anyone armed with a camera on their cell phone.

Video Clips

I created short video clips explaining how the service works and how real people could use it in real life scenarios. See what happens to Jean-Pier, Raquelle, Gary, Clair and Myriel & Nick
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