IMPULSE #1.8

Talking to experts in your field can be intimidating. You go in expecting deep, philosophical discussions, maybe some critique, and — if you’re lucky — a few words of encouragement. Over the last two days, I had the chance to speak with two experts in human-computer interaction: Horst Hörtner from Ars Electronica Futurelab and Mr. Kaltenbrunner from the University of Art and Design in Linz. These conversations were part of my university schedule, but what I got out of them was much more than just academic feedback.  

One conversation felt like a motivational boost (with a healthy dose of honesty), while the other was more of a crash course in rethinking my approach to my master’s thesis. Both were interesting, challenging, and, at times, unintentionally hilarious. 

Horst Hörtner: Put Some Ego Into It!

First up was Horst Hörtner, a leading expert in human-computer interaction and the managing director of Ars Electronica Futurelab — an institution at the cutting edge of digital media, design, art, and technology. So, you know, no pressure. 

From the moment we started talking, it was clear that Horst is not one to sugarcoat things. He gave me some incredibly encouraging feedback about my work, calling it kinda impressive — which, coming from someone at Ars Electronica, felt like getting a thumbs-up from the tech gods. But then he followed up with something unexpected:  

“You should definitely put more ego into talking about your work.”

I had to laugh because, honestly, he’s not wrong. I’ve always believed in my work, but I tend to present it in a more straightforward, no-big-deal way. Horst, however, made it clear that confidence is not just about knowing you’re good — it’s about making sure everyone else knows it too. He said I already sound confident (as I should, apparently, because I’m “very good” at what I do — his words, not mine! 😆), but I need to own it even more.  

Then came the part that didn’t surprise me at all.  

“Everything I see here shows me that you’re a workaholic.”

Guilty as charged. I don’t even know how to argue with that one. But it’s nice when someone at one of the most important digital media institutions in Austria recognizes my dedication — workaholism and all.  

Mr. Kaltenbrunner: A Masterclass in Master’s-Thesis Thinking

Next, I had my conversation with Mr. Kaltenbrunner, professor at the Institute of Media Studies in Linz, head of the Tangible Music Lab, and co-inventor of the Reactivision framework. Basically, a serious expert in my field. This talk, though… this was an experience.  

I had roughly five minutes to present my master’s thesis topic, then in between the few rare moments I was allowed to answer his questions, I got some very insightful feedback. 

Here are the key takeaways from our conversation:  

1. Collaboration is key.

   – One of his biggest concerns was that my prototype shouldn’t feel like I just send my grandpa a link and then never check in again (Which, to be fair, would be kind of rude, but if you take a few seconds to listen to me, you would know that would never be the case for me and my prototype.)  

   – The app needs to focus on genuine collaboration — a space where family members actively contribute rather than just passively consuming information.  

   – This made me rethink how to design interactions that actually bring families together, rather than just giving them access to shared content.  

2. Storytelling, Legacies, and Family Heirlooms.

   – He suggested I go deeper into the storytelling aspect — not just digital legacies but also physical heirlooms (letters, objects, photos).  And I know this one as it makes total sense because, honestly, what’s family history without the things we pass down? Whether it’s an old watch, a recipe book, or that one piece of furniture nobody wants to get rid of, heirlooms hold as much history as the people who owned them. 

   – It made me realize that my app prototype could include ways to document objects and their stories, turning them into digital keepsakes. 

3. Version 1.0 is Enough (For Now).  

   – Mr. Kaltenbrunner reminded me that my master’s thesis doesn’t have to be the final, polished version of my project. It can be a solid Version 1.0, and I can build on it later.  

   – This was honestly a relief to hear. As someone who tends to go all-in on projects (see: *workaholic*), I sometimes forget that progress is better than perfection.  

4. Make an Explainer Video. 

   – He suggested that I create a short promotional video to explain my prototype — something that could be shared on social media and clearly demonstrate the app’s purpose.  

   – This was actually an amazing idea. Not only does it help communicate my project visually and concisely, but it’s also a practical way to generate interest and potential future collaborations.  

What These Talks Mean for My Future Work and Design

Both of these conversations reinforced some important lessons about confidence, design, and the creative process:  

– Confidence matters. If I’m good at what I do (and, apparently, I am), I need to talk about my work with pride and conviction.  

– Collaboration should be at the heart of my project. The prototype isn’t just a digital archive — it’s a space for families to interact, share, and co-create their history.  

– Objects tell stories too. My prototype should allow users to document not just people, but the heirlooms and artifacts that carry family history.  

– Version 1.0 is enough. My thesis is just the beginning, and I can continue refining and expanding my project long after I submit it.  

– Explaining ideas visually is crucial. A well-crafted video can make an abstract concept tangible, which is a skill I’ll definitely need in future projects.  

Final Thoughts: Two Days, Two Experts, Tons of Inspiration

Talking to Horst Hörtner and Mr. Kaltenbrunner gave me exactly what I needed — encouragement, constructive critique, and fresh ideas to push my thesis forward.  

Horst reminded me to own my skills and talk about my work with more confidence (and also called me out for being a workaholic, which… fair). Mr. Kaltenbrunner, on the other hand, helped refine my thesis direction, giving me a clearer vision of how to make my prototype more collaborative and meaningful.  

After these conversations, I feel more motivated, focused, and — dare I say it — ready to embrace my inner workaholic to bring this project to life.

And who knows? Maybe next time, I’ll talk about my work with a *little* more ego. After all, if you’re good at something, why not let everybody know? 😏  

IMPULSE #1.7

Some ideas never lose relevance, no matter how much time passes. The three TED Talks I reviewed — Taryn Simon’s The Stories Behind the Bloodlines, Andrew Solomon’s Love, No Matter What, and Jeffrey Kluger’s The Sibling Bond — all explore themes of family, identity, and the ways our relationships shape us. Even though these talks were given over a decade ago, their messages feel just as urgent today, especially in the context of my master’s thesis and the genealogy app prototype I am developing.  

Each of these talks, in its own way, challenges how we think about lineage, love, and human connection. They don’t just focus on where we come from  they explore what family means, how we define it, and how we preserve those relationships over time. These themes are deeply relevant not only for my thesis but also for designing better tools that bring people together, both in digital and physical spaces.  

Taryn Simon: The Stories Behind the Bloodlines

Taryn Simon’s talk takes a fascinating approach to genealogy — not as a simple record of who begat whom, but as a collision of order and chaos. She traveled the world documenting bloodlines and their complicated, often painful histories. Some families were torn apart by corruption, genocide, or war, while others carried legacies of political power, migration, or survival — and this hit close to home, because not too long ago all of this happened in my home country too. Her project, A Living Man Declared Dead and Other Chapters, exposes how bureaucracy, history, and fate shape family narratives, sometimes erasing people altogether.  

One of the most haunting stories she tells is about a man in India who was declared legally dead because his relatives bribed officials to take over his land. On paper, he does not exist. And yet, here he is — a living contradiction. This highlights a deeper truth: our official records do not always reflect our lived realities.  

Why this matters for my thesis and my prototype:  

– Many genealogy tools focus on official documentation, like birth certificates and census records. But what happens when those records are missing, manipulated, or just wrong?  

– My prototype should allow users to tell their family stories in a way that goes beyond bureaucracy — through photos, voice recordings, and personal memories.  

– The way Simon presents her research — structured bloodlines clashing with fragmented footnotes — reminds me once again that genealogy isn’t just about names and dates; it’s about the tension between order and disorder, memory and erasure.

Andrew Solomon: Love, No Matter What

Andrew Solomon’s talk is about identity, acceptance, and the complexity of family love. He explores the idea that some identities — like race or nationality — are passed down through generations (vertical identities), while others — like being deaf, gay, or neurodivergent — do not match what parents expect (horizontal identities). Families often struggle with these differences, sometimes rejecting their own children because they do not fit traditional molds.  

Solomon tells heartbreaking and hopeful stories of parents learning to accept children they once feared they would never understand — parents of children with Down Syndrome, disabilities, or even children who became violent. One mother, whose son was a perpetrator of the Columbine massacre, wrestles with the painful reality of loving a child who caused immense harm. Solomon’s point is clear: love and acceptance are choices, not automatic responses.  

Why this matters for my thesis and my app prototype:

– Genealogy is often treated as a linear inheritance, but real families are far more complicated. A family tree does not always reflect the relationships that truly shape us.  

– My prototype should maybe allow users to define family beyond biology — including adopted family members, close friends, or mentors who have played essential roles in shaping their lives.  

– Solomon’s discussion of acceptance and difference is relevant to design itself. Good design is inclusive — it acknowledges that not everyone fits into a neat category. Whether designing for accessibility or creating a platform that allows for non-traditional family structures — these ideas could shape my work, but I’ll cross that bridge when I come to it.

Jeffrey Kluger: The Sibling Bond

Jeffrey Kluger’s talk is a love letter to sibling relationships — the longest and often most formative relationships in our lives. He argues that siblings shape us in ways parents never can, influencing our personalities, our social skills, and even our career paths. Unlike parents, who eventually leave us, and children, who come into our lives later, siblings walk the entire journey with us (hopefully).  

Kluger also dives into birth order psychology, explaining how firstborns tend to be more responsible and achievement-oriented, while younger siblings develop charm and humor as survival mechanisms. He talks about favoritism in families, the impact of competition, and the deep, often unspoken loyalty between siblings — even when they drive each other crazy.  And as someone who has a much older brother, I can say that I agree with most of things said, but of course, every relationship is different.

Why this matters for my thesis and my app prototype:

– Sibling relationships are often overlooked in genealogy research. Most apps focus on parent-child connections, but my app could include features that highlight the influence of siblings — shared experiences, childhood memories, and inside jokes.  That is why I’m putting so much emphasis on storytelling.

– Kluger’s insights on birth order could inspire new ways to visualize family history. Imagine an interactive feature where users could see how birth order shaped different generations in their family.  

– More broadly, his talk reinforces that family history is not just about tracing ancestors — it’s about understanding the relationships that made us who we are and I’m all here for it.  

Why These Talks Matter for Design and My Future Work 

All three talks remind me that family is not just about genetics — it’s about stories, connections, and human experiences. This is directly relevant not only for my master’s thesis but also for the future of interactive design, digital storytelling, and genealogy apps.  

1. Storytelling is just as important as data. 

   – Genealogy tools should not just be family trees with facts — they should help people tell their family’s stories in rich and interactive ways. Taryn Simon’s approach to visually documenting bloodlines reminds me that history is not always clean and structured. My prototype should reflect both the order and the messiness of family history.  

2. Relationships shape us more than we realize.

   – Kluger’s discussion on sibling influence reminds me that genealogy apps should capture family dynamics, not just names. Whether designing genealogy tools, interactive exhibitions, or user-centered platforms, I want to focus on how people relate to one another — not just how they are related.  

Conclusion

These TED Talks reaffirm something I already believed: family history is not just about looking backward — it’s about understanding who we are today. Taryn Simon reveals how official records don’t always tell the full story, Andrew Solomon reminds us that family love is sometimes a journey, not an instant fact, and Jeffrey Kluger proves that our siblings shape us more than we think. 

For my thesis, for my app prototype, and for my future as a designer, these lessons will stay with me. Whether I’m working on genealogy, interactive storytelling, or user experience, the goal is the same: to create spaces where people can connect, reflect, and preserve the stories that truly matter.

IMPULSE #1.6

Genealogy is a funny thing. We all say we want to know where we came from, but when it comes to actually documenting it, life gets in the way. That, and the realization that some of our ancestors weren’t as glamorous as we hoped. 

As part of my master’s thesis research, I sat down for a private conversation with my partner, Esad to discuss family stories, legacy, and how technology fits into it all. This was a personal discussion meant solely for research, and while I won’t be sharing the transcript or audio, I’ve gathered key insights that will help shape the genealogy app prototype I’m designing.

Given that Esad is a developer, I expected a pretty technical take on things, but what I got was a mix of pragmatism, nostalgia, and an interesting critique of current genealogy platforms. His thoughts confirmed some of my ideas, challenged others, and — most importantly — helped me refine what a modern family storytelling app should look like.  

The Digital Side of Family Legacy

Esad is as comfortable with technology as one can be — he literally builds digital tools for a living. When I asked if he’d be interested in preserving his family’s legacy, he didn’t hesitate: “Yes, but I don’t have time.” That, right there, is probably the biggest barrier for most people. We care about our history, but finding a way to document it in a meaningful way? That’s another story.

His approach to family history so far has been mental storage plus occasional notes. He started creating a partial family tree but never got around to completing it, mostly because there wasn’t a system that fit his needs. This was my first major takeaway:  

People don’t just need a place to store family history — they need an intuitive, engaging system that makes them WANT to do it.

Esad’s preference? A graphical family tree where clicking on a person reveals photos, stories, and personal memories. He wants a structured yet interactive way to engage with family history, not just a database filled with dates and names.  

Where Existing Genealogy Apps Fall Short

I asked if he had ever used MyHeritage or Ancestry, and his answer was a solid “Nope.” Not because they aren’t useful, but because they focus too much on DNA and historical records rather than actual storytelling.  

He pointed out two major flaws in these platforms:  

1. They overemphasize genetic data. While he appreciates the science behind DNA testing, he isn’t comfortable sharing biometrics with companies. Family history should be personal, not just another data point in a corporate archive.

2. They lack emotional connection. Genealogy isn’t just about tracing ancestors — it’s about preserving who they were, what they did, and the stories that made them unique. Most apps don’t provide enough space for personal anecdotes, traditions, or those little quirks that make families special.  

For Esad, the ideal genealogy app wouldn’t just store information — it would tell a story. MyHeritage gives you names and birth dates; he wants to click on a relative and see their favorite quotes, listen to a recorded story, or view old letters and recipes.

This was another key insight:  

A successful family history app should be more than a research tool—it should be a digital time capsule.

Accessibility and the “Grandma Factor”

We talked a lot about how different generations engage with technology, and this led to some interesting thoughts on accessibility.

When I asked if it was important for an app like this to be user-friendly for older generations, his response was clear: 

“It’s important, but I don’t see elderly people starting a family tree on their own.” 

Fair point. He believes younger and middle-aged users would drive the content creation, but there should still be an easy way for older family members to contribute. Instead of expecting them to build an entire profile from scratch, he suggested a simpler approach  like sending them a link where they can upload a photo or record a voice message without needing to navigate a complex layout.

This led me to a design realization:  

Make it easy for older family members to contribute, but don’t force them to use an overly simplified app that sacrifices functionality for younger users.

One fun idea? Customizing the user interface based on age. A younger user could have a full-feature experience, while an older user gets a streamlined layout focused on consuming and contributing stories in the simplest way possible — but that could be very tricky to implement.

Social Features vs. Privacy: Striking a Balance  

One of the more interesting points he raised was about not turning the app into Facebook.

While he likes the idea of tagging family members in photos or stories, he doesn’t want a system that pushes social interaction too aggressively. He prefers a passive discovery model, where he can click on a category (e.g., “Photography”) and see which relatives share that interest, rather than getting notifications that say, “Hey, your cousin also likes photography! Send them a message!”

Another big privacy concern? Direct messaging. He’d rather have a simple “request contact” feature instead of a built-in chat. This prevents the app from turning into yet another messaging platform while still allowing family members to connect.  

Key takeaway: Balance discovery with privacy — people should be able to find shared interests without feeling like they’re on a social media app.

Final Takeaways: What This Means for My App Prototype

This conversation was incredibly valuable for shaping my thesis and the genealogy app prototype I’m building. Esad’s insights confirmed that genealogy tools shouldn’t just be about archiving the past — they should make history feel alive.

Here’s what I’m taking forward into my design:  

1. Make storytelling a priority. A good family history app shouldn’t just collect names — it should preserve personalities.  

2. Simplify contribution for older generations. Offer an easy way for them to add stories without forcing them through a complicated tech process.  

3. Focus on engagement, not just data. A visual, interactive family tree makes history feel more dynamic and approachable.  

4. Keep privacy in mind. Avoid unnecessary social media elements and let users control how much they share.  

5. Use smart reminders. Instead of generic notifications, send personalized prompts based on family events or birthdays to encourage interaction.  

Conclusion

This wasn’t just a research interview — it was a conversation about what family history really means in a digital world. Esad’s thoughts helped me see where genealogy app prototype succeeds, where they fail, and how I can build something that truly matters. 

Ultimately, preserving family stories isn’t just about recording the past — it’s about creating meaningful connections in the present and future. The goal isn’t just to document history, but to bring families closer, one story at a time. 

And hey — if my app prototype helps people avoid the frustration of tracking down great-grandpa Johan’s *actual* last name, I’d call that a success.  

IMPULSE #1.5

What’s in a Name? More Than You’d Think  

If you’ve ever tried researching your ancestors and felt like you were playing detective, you’re not alone. Free Tips for Searching Ancestors‘ Surnames is basically a “survival guide” for anyone who’s tried to track down their great-great-grandfather, only to find his name spelled five different ways across various documents. This book offers practical strategies for dealing with surname variations, cultural naming traditions, and historical changes — things that are incredibly useful not just for genealogists, but for anyone designing tools to help families preserve their history.  

For my master’s thesis, which focuses on building a genealogy app prototype, this book is a goldmine of insights. It highlights why names are such tricky yet essential pieces of family history.

The Challenge of Names in Genealogy  

One of the first things the book makes clear is that surnames are anything but stable. People changed them when they moved countries, census takers misspelled them, and sometimes families just decided to tweak them for fun (or to avoid certain associations). For example, immigrants to the U.S. often anglicized their names — Schmidt became Smith, and Kowalski might have turned into Collins.  

For my prototype, this means one thing: searching for names needs to be flexible (as I’ve already mentioned in my previous blog posts). The app prototype should allow users to input variations, use wildcard searches, and even suggest alternative spellings based on common name changes over time. Otherwise, people might miss out on important connections just because their ancestor had an inconsistent signature.  

Another key takeaway is how cultural naming traditions affect research. In Scandinavian countries, for example, patronymic names meant that Anders‘ son was literally called Andersson, and his son might be Johanssen, and so on. This makes tracing lineage more complicated, especially if you’re trying to follow a single surname through generations. 

The Book’s Relevance to My Future Prototype  

Beyond the research challenges, this book has confirmed to me that my app prototype should support storytelling rather than just data collection. Genealogy isn’t just about names — it’s about the lives behind those names. Someone with the last name „Green“ could be named after a village green, their profession as a dyer, or simply because an ancestor was really into nature. Understanding these origins makes family history more engaging.  

My idea that the app prototype would have a section where you can write things about yourself and allow the users to add context to names, explaining where they come from and how they evolved (among other things).  

This book also confirmed what others were writing about too —  genealogical research requires “detective work”. The book suggests using wildcard searches (like searching „Johns*“ to find Johnson, Johnston, or Johnsen) and checking multiple sources to confirm a match. This reinforces the idea that my app prototype should guide users through their research process, making suggestions and offering hints rather than just displaying raw data. 

Why This Matters for My Future as a Designer  

Reading this book has reminded me why good design is about making complex things simple. Surname research is messy, inconsistent, and sometimes frustrating, but the right tools can make it easier. As a designer, I want to create interfaces that help people uncover their histories without needing to be professional genealogists. 

Conclusion  

Free Tips for Searching Ancestors‘ Surnames is more than just a book about genealogy — it’s a guide to understanding how names shape our identities and how we can preserve them despite historical inconsistencies. For my thesis, it has reinforced the importance of flexible search tools, storytelling features, and user-friendly design.  

In the end, whether I’m designing a genealogy app or any other digital experience, the key takeaway is this: people don’t just want data, they want connection. My job as a designer is to create systems that help them find it.  

IMPULSE #1.4

Let’s face it — digging through census records might not sound like the most exciting thing in the world. But while reading Find You Ancestors in US Census Records I’ve realized just how much hidden treasure these documents hold. This book isn’t just a guide to finding names on old census forms; it’s a roadmap for uncovering stories, understanding history, and piecing together the lives of those who came before us.  

As someone working on a master’s thesis about family relationships and designing a genealogy app prototype, I can confidently say this book was a good reading choice for me. Not only has it helped me think about how to structure my app prototype, but it’s also given me a fresh perspective on why family history matters (but you know I’m big on that anyways) — and how design can play a role in keeping those stories alive.

Relevance to My Thesis and Prototype  

Census records are described in the book as a “time-lapse biography” of families, showing how they evolved across decades. This really hit home for me. My thesis focuses on creating tools that help families connect and preserve their stories, and this idea of capturing change over time is central to my prototype. Whether it’s visualizing a family tree or adding interactive timelines, this book has inspired me to think about how to make those changes come alive for users.  

One of my favorite takeaways is the idea of “reading between the lines.” The book explains how small details — like a family’s address or who their neighbors were — can reveal so much about their lives. For example, if a family moved from Kansas to California during the Dust Bowl, it’s not just a move; it’s a story of resilience and hope. My app prototype could encourage users to think beyond dates and names, adding layers of context to their family histories.  

Another great point from the book is how messy data can be. (Apparently, census takers weren’t great at spelling ?) This taught me an important design lesson: my app prototype needs to be forgiving. People should be able to search for “Johansson” and still find “Johnson” because let’s be real, nobody remembers how their great-grandfather spelled his name in 1920.

Lessons for Design  

This book doesn’t just teach you about genealogy — it’s secretly a masterclass in user experience design. One big lesson is the importance of making complex systems easy to navigate. Census records are full of overwhelming data, but tools like extraction forms and research logs make the process manageable. That’s exactly what I want my app prototype to do: take something potentially overwhelming and make it approachable and even enjoyable.  

The book also talks about the power of visualization. A simple chart or timeline can turn a pile of dates into a story that’s easy to understand. For my app, this means prioritizing visual elements that let users explore their family history in engaging ways — whether it’s mapping out migration patterns or creating interactive timelines.  

And then there’s the issue of flexibility. The book emphasizes that every genealogist works differently — some love spreadsheets, while others prefer scribbling notes on napkins. This reminded me that my app needs to be adaptable. Whether users want to upload photos, record audio stories, or stick to text entries, the design should work for everyone.

Why This Matters for My Future  

Reading this book has reminded me that storytelling is at the heart of everything. Whether I’m designing a genealogy app prototype or working on future projects, the goal is always to help people tell their stories in ways that feel authentic and meaningful.  

It’s also taught me the value of persistence. Finding ancestors in census records isn’t always easy — sometimes names are misspelled, dates don’t add up, and you’re left scratching your head. But when you finally piece together a story, it’s incredibly rewarding. I think design is a lot like that: you have to be willing to dig deep, embrace the messiness, and trust that the end result will be worth it.  

Looking ahead, I see endless possibilities for using design to connect people with their pasts. Whether it’s through apps, digital archives, or even immersive VR experiences, I want to keep exploring ways to make history feel personal and alive. This book has reinforced my belief that design isn’t just about solving problems — it’s about creating connections and inspiring curiosity.

A Lighthearted Takeaway 

If there’s one thing this book taught me, it’s that genealogy is basically detective work for nosy people. (And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a bit of snooping?) Whether it’s figuring out why Grandpa Joe lied about his age in 1930 or uncovering a long-lost family branch, the process is full of surprises. As a designer, I want to bring that sense of discovery into my work — making it fun, engaging, and maybe even a little addictive.  

Conclusion  

Find Your Ancestors in US Census Records has given me more than just research tips — it’s inspired me to think differently about my thesis, my prototype, and my future as a designer. By applying the lessons from this book, I hope to create tools that not only help families preserve their stories but also make the process of discovery as exciting and meaningful as the stories themselves.  

Genealogy might seem like it’s all about the past, but for me, it’s also about the future — of family, design, and the connections we create through both.  

IMPULSE #1.3

Secret to Organize Your Genealogy

The book Secrets to Organize Your Genealogy is packed with tips for staying organized while exploring your family history. It goes beyond just managing research — it’s really about creating systems that make the process easier and more meaningful. For my master’s thesis, which focuses on building a genealogy app prototype to help families connect and preserve their stories, this book has been extremely helpful with its tips. It’s given me ideas not just for organizing information but also for how design can shape personal and family connections in impactful ways.  

How This Book Connects to My Thesis  

One of the biggest takeaways from the book is how important it is to have a clear system when organizing family history. Whether it’s through research logs, checklists, or file-naming systems, the book emphasizes the need for tools that make it easier to keep track of discoveries. This is a direct inspiration for the prototype that I’m making for my master’s thesis, where I want families to feel empowered to store and share their stories without feeling overwhelmed. For example, the idea of using tagging systems or interactive charts to organize information could be a perfect fit for my app, making it intuitive and user-friendly (as some of the people I had interview for my user research also suggested).  

The book also highlights the emotional side of genealogy. It’s not just about collecting data — it’s about preserving memories and creating a legacy for future generations. This aligns perfectly with the goal of my app, which isn’t just a tool for research but a space for families to bond and collaborate. By creating a platform where people can share photos, stories, and even unresolved questions, I hope to build something that strengthens relationships across generations.  

Why It Matters for Design  

This book has also made me think about how good design can transform complex processes into enjoyable experiences. Genealogy often feels overwhelming because of the sheer amount of information involved, but a well-designed system can make even the most complicated tasks feel manageable. For example, the book’s emphasis on keeping things simple — like using consistent file-naming systems or clear workflows — is a great reminder that design should focus on reducing friction and helping users stay organized.  

Another big thing is the importance of flexibility. The book talks about how different people have different ways of organizing their research, and I think that’s something every designer should keep in mind. For my app prototype, this means maybe giving users options to customize how they store and access their family history. Some people might want a visual timeline, while others might prefer detailed logs. The key is to create a tool that adapts to the user, not the other way around. But I’ll tackle this problem appropriately when the time for that comes. 

How This Shapes My Future  

Reading this book has not only influenced the way I think about my master’s thesis but also how I see my role as a designer. It’s reminded me that design isn’t just about aesthetics or functionality — it’s about creating tools that make life better and more meaningful. In my future work, I want to focus on building systems that bring people together, whether it’s through storytelling platforms, collaborative tools, or something entirely new.  

This book has also reinforced the idea that good design is a process. Just like genealogy, it requires patience, lots of work, attention to detail, and a willingness to adapt. As I move forward in my career, I hope I’ll carry these lessons with me, knowing that the best designs come from understanding people’s needs and finding creative ways to meet them.  

Conclusion  

Secrets to Organize Your Genealogy is for me more than just a guide for family historians — it’s a reminder of how powerful good organization and design can be. It’s given me fresh ideas for the app prototype that I’m creating for my master’s thesis. It helped me refine my approach to my prototype and inspired me to think bigger about the impact design can have on people’s lives. Whether it’s preserving family legacies or creating tools that make complex tasks easier, this book has shown me how design can truly make a difference. 

IMPULSE #1.2

Exploring Family, Connection, and Design: Lessons from Six TED Talks  

These six TED Talks highlight different aspects of human connection, family, and how we relate to one another. They each provide valuable perspectives that align with my master’s thesis and the prototype I’m building—a project focused on strengthening family relationships through design. These talks also offer broader insights into how design can shape the future and play a significant role in my career as an interactive designer.  

TED Talk 1: Yaniv Erlich – How We’re Building the World’s Largest Family Tree 

Yaniv Erlich’s talk explores how technology and crowdsourcing can bring people together by building a massive, interconnected family tree. With over 125 million individuals included, this project shows how data and collaboration can reveal not just personal connections but also insights into migration patterns, health, and relationships.  

For my thesis, this is a powerful example of how shared storytelling and collective input can preserve family histories and strengthen bonds. The concept of merging individual stories into a larger narrative mirrors my prototype’s goal: to create a digital space where families can connect, collaborate, and preserve their legacy. It’s also a reminder that design doesn’t just have to solve problems; it can bring people together and make them feel part of something bigger. 

TED Talk 2: Elizabeth Zion – The Need for Family Reunification

Elizabeth Zion shares her deeply personal story of growing up without her father due to immigration barriers. Her experience highlights how essential family unity is to a child’s emotional and social development. She makes a powerful case for governments to prioritize family reunification and remove the bureaucratic obstacles that keep families apart.  

This talk resonated with me because it underscores the emotional impact of family separation—a theme central to my thesis. My goal is to design tools that not only preserve family connections but also help families communicate and feel close, even across physical distances. Zion’s story reminds me of the importance of creating tools that offer emotional support and bridge gaps caused by distance or circumstances.  

TED Talk 3: Abigail Spanberger – How to Connect with People Who Are Different Than You  

Abigail Spanberger’s talk is about the power of asking questions and building relationships, even with people who see the world differently. As a former CIA officer and now a politician, she explains how understanding different perspectives is key to solving complex problems and creating meaningful change.  

For my work, this talk reinforces the importance of designing with empathy. It’s not just about creating tools—it’s about understanding the diverse needs of the people who will use them. Spanberger’s emphasis on building relationships and finding common ground inspires me to ensure that my prototype feels inclusive and adaptable for all kinds of families, with their unique stories and dynamics.  

TED Talk 4: Diana Greene Foster – What Happens When We Deny People Abortions?

Diana Greene Foster shares research from the Turnaway Study, which examines the long-term impact of being denied an abortion. Her findings reveal how life-changing decisions affect economic, physical, and emotional well-being. Foster’s talk goes beyond the topic of abortion—it’s a reminder that access to choice and agency over one’s life is essential for overall well-being.  

This talk is relevant to my thesis because it highlights the importance of creating environments where people feel empowered to make their own decisions. For my prototype, this means designing tools that allow families to take control of their narratives, preserve what matters to them, and pass it on in ways that feel authentic and meaningful. Foster’s talk also shows that design should focus on supporting users’ long-term well-being, not just their immediate needs.  

TED Talk 5: Amy Kurzweil – Time Traveling with AI to Connect with Lost Loved Ones  

Amy Kurzweil’s story about using AI to create a chatbot based on her late grandfather’s writings is both fascinating and emotional. She describes how this technology allowed her to connect with a family member she never met and explore his legacy in a new way. 

This talk is incredibly relevant to my prototype, as it illustrates how technology can make family history come alive. It’s not just about preserving the past—it’s about creating interactive experiences that allow people to engage with their family stories. Kurzweil’s project inspires me to think about how AI or other emerging technologies could be integrated into my work to make it even more personal and impactful.  

TED Talk 6: Clemantine Wamariya – War and What Comes After

Clemantine Wamariya shares her harrowing story of surviving the Rwandan genocide and her journey as a refugee. Her talk is a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the importance of storytelling in healing and understanding. 

For my thesis, Wamariya’s story underscores the need to preserve and honor family histories, even those marked by trauma. Families often carry untold stories that shape their identity, and design can play a role in helping them share and process those stories. Her talk also reminds me that design can be a tool for healing, creating spaces where people feel safe to share their experiences and connect with others.  

Impact on My Future Work and Design  

These talks have given me so much to think about—not just for my thesis but for my career as a designer. They highlight how design can be about more than just functionality; it can be a way to connect people, bridge divides, and preserve what makes us human. 

In my future work, I want to create tools that foster connection and empathy, whether that’s through storytelling platforms, inclusive interfaces, or innovative uses of technology like AI. The themes from these talks—collaboration, empathy, agency, and resilience—are lessons I’ll carry forward as I design for a more connected and compassionate world.  

Design has the power to shape the future, and these talks remind me of the responsibility that comes with that power. As I work on my thesis and beyond, my goal is to create designs that honor people’s stories, bring them closer together, and leave a lasting impact.  

IMPULSE #1.1

Science of Social Bonding in Family, Friendship & Romantic Love

Introduction  

Dr. Andrew Huberman’s podcast episode on social bonding provides a fascinating look at the science behind human relationships. He explains how our brains and bodies work together to form and maintain bonds, whether with parents, friends, or romantic partners. This episode is packed with information that connects directly to my master’s thesis, which focuses on strengthening family relationships and using design to create tools or spaces that bring people closer.  

Connection to My Master’s Thesis

Dr. Huberman talks about how relationships, from those between parents and children to adult partnerships, rely on brain circuits and chemicals like oxytocin and dopamine. These chemicals help us feel close to others and build trust. For my thesis, this is especially relevant because I’m exploring how design can foster stronger connections within families. Learning how our brains naturally seek and maintain relationships gives me a better understanding of how to create a tool that supports those bonds.  

One idea from the podcast that really stood out is „social homeostasis,“ which is about maintaining balance in our relationships. This concept can be applied to design by creating systems or tools that help families stay connected in healthy ways. For example, technologies like interactive storytelling apps or smart home devices could encourage family members to spend time together and share experiences, bridging generational gaps or strengthening bonds. 

Key Takeaways and Applications

Dr. Huberman emphasizes the importance of physiological synchrony—when people’s heart rates or other body functions align during shared experiences. He mentioned a study where people’s heart rates synced while listening to the same story. This idea could inspire designs for family activities, like digital tools that encourage co-watching or co-listening to stories. Future research might even explore how technologies like haptic feedback or spatial audio could make these shared experiences even more engaging.  

Another important point was about introverts and extroverts. Dr. Huberman explains that introverts often prefer fewer but more meaningful interactions, while extroverts thrive on frequent social engagement. This insight shows that not all family members need the same level of interaction to feel connected. Design solutions could reflect this by creating quiet spaces for introverts to recharge while also offering tools for more active collaboration to suit extroverts.  

The podcast also explores how shared activities, like storytelling or creating something together, strengthen bonds. This gave me ideas for tools that could bring families closer, like apps for collaborative art or music-making. These tools could mimic the bonding effects of shared experiences, helping family members feel more connected.  

Design Ideas for Family Bonding

Dr. Huberman shares practical tips for building stronger relationships, such as creating traditions, doing activities together, and sharing stories. These ideas align perfectly with family-focused design. For example, a digital platform could gamify traditions like sharing family stories or cultural practices, making them more interactive and fun. Similarly, apps that promote shared physical activities, like family fitness challenges, could tap into the bonding effects of doing something together.  

Impact on Design Research

The podcast highlights how flexible and universal our brain’s bonding mechanisms are. This means that design solutions should also be flexible, allowing families to personalize them based on their unique needs. For instance, tools that adapt to each family member’s preferences for social interaction—whether they’re introverted or extroverted—can create more inclusive and effective experiences.  

Dr. Huberman also talks about negative bonds, like trauma bonds, and how they can impact relationships. This is an important reminder that design can play a healing role. Tools like AI-powered apps could help families identify and address emotional issues, creating safe spaces for open communication and support.  

Conclusion

Dr. Huberman’s insights into the science of social bonding have given me a fresh perspective on how to approach my thesis. By understanding the biology behind relationships, I can design tools and systems that not only align with how people naturally connect but also support their emotional and psychological well-being. This podcast has sparked new ideas for creating meaningful designs that help families strengthen their bonds, balance different needs, and heal from conflicts. 

  

Accompanying Links

1. https://www.hubermanlab.com/episode/science-of-social-bonding-in-family-friendship-and-romantic-love

2. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hcuMLQVAgEg

3. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gMRph_BvHB4

“Intergenerational Digital Storytelling” | 09.2

I did receive some feedback, and it was mostly very positive. However, I won’t be posting the feedback here. Instead, I’ll show some of the additional work that I’ve done—not all, because some have to stay a surprise, hehe. I added and implemented icons and a few more details. Now, I’m going to finish recording everything so I can post it, and you can have a little sneak peek of my application.

‚Till the final entry, bye!