by tom.giess -

IMPULSE #7: ProtoPie 101 Crash Course – Part 1

Inspired by my colleagues, I thought signing up to the official ProtoPie 101 Crash Course would be a good preparation when it comes to the work piece in my master’s thesis. Since I possibly want to use sensor technology and the visual as well as auditory level of communication, ProtoPie promises to emulate what feels like a programmed app due to its advanced prototyping capabilities.

Getting started

Every chapter of the ProtoPie 101 Crash Course begins with a clear outline of „What you’ll need“ and „What you’ll learn.“ This approach helps set expectations and ensures users are prepared with the necessary tools and mindset before diving in.

Unit 1: Introduction to ProtoPie

ProtoPie introduces a unique conceptual model based on object + trigger + response. The logic is simple: If I tap the square layer, then it will move. This principle extends to multiple micro-interactions, like carousels.

The prototyping process in ProtoPie involves three key platforms:

  • Studio for creating prototypes
  • Player for displaying prototypes on mobile devices
  • Cloud for sharing and collaboration

To get started, ProtoPie outlines four essential steps:

  1. Add assets
  2. Make interactions
  3. Test & share
  4. Collaborate

The structure is intuitive, making the onboarding process smooth and easy to follow.

Step 1: Add assets

This step introduces knowledge tests with multiple-choice questions. For instance, I encountered this question:

„When you export an entire frame or artboard from your design tool, how does this get imported into ProtoPie?“

The answer options were:

  • Object in Scene
  • Scene
  • New Pie
  • Frame

At first, it was unclear what exactly constituted a scene, a frame, or an object in a scene. However, the narrator clarified these distinctions after the first question, making it much easier to understand.

Importing assets from Figma was incredibly smooth. Everything transferred seamlessly, making the process highly efficient.

Step 2: Make interactions

My task in this step was to create an interaction where an icon on a home screen wiggles after a long press, allowing position edits, and stops wiggling when exiting edit mode. To achieve this, I used:

  • Long press and tap as triggers
  • Rotate and stop as responses

Some standout features during this step included:

  • Duplicating triggers and responses, which made iteration much faster
  • The timeline feature, which allows responses to occur sequentially – this was an excellent addition
  • The reset response, which makes it easy to revert an interaction back to its initial state

Overall, creating interactions in ProtoPie felt logical, intuitive, and efficient.

Step 3: Test & share

Now came the phase of installing the ProtoPie Player app. Prototypes can be displayed by:

  • Connecting a mobile device to a computer via USB
  • Scanning a QR code when both devices are on the same WiFi network

The display experience was just as seamless as in Figma. Sharing prototypes was also straightforward. A link can be distributed with controlled access settings, determining:

  • Who can view the prototype
  • Who can download the file for further editing
  • What UI elements are visible when opening the link

This flexibility ensures that collaboration remains secure and structured.

Step 4: Collaborate

The course then introduced interaction recordings (formerly known as „interaction recipes“). Unlike other prototyping tools that attempt to generate code – often unsuccessfully – ProtoPie focuses on providing accurate interaction values for developers.

With interaction recordings, developers can:

  • Play and scroll through the timeline at different speed levels to fully understand the interaction
  • Share single recorded interactions via individual sub-links

Additionally, ProtoPie allows elements with interactions to be transformed into reusable components, similar to Figma. Once inside a component, interactions move with it. Components can also be uploaded to a team library, enabling:

  • Cloud-based collaboration
  • Editing in library mode with cloud-synced updates
  • Easy pasting of components from local files to the cloud team library (though changes need to be published before others see them)

Knowledge test & learning progress

The first chapter concludes with a knowledge test, designed to help measure comprehension. If results indicate gaps in understanding, the system suggests to do the chapter again before proceeding. I found this to be an excellent learning reinforcement tool. Additionally, test results can be downloaded for documentation, making it a useful feature for employer verification.

After completing this first chapter, I had reached 20% progress in the overall crash course. This made me eager to continue and explore the advanced capabilities of ProtoPie.

Final thoughts

My experience with the ProtoPie 101 Crash Course so far has been extremely positive. The course is structured in a way that makes learning both engaging and practical. The hands-on approach, combined with well-integrated knowledge tests, ensures that users truly get the concepts before moving forward.

ProtoPie’s approach to prototyping – focusing on visual interaction recordings instead of auto-generated code – stands out as a particularly developer-friendly and intuitive method. It eliminates ambiguity and allows for precise handoff between designers and engineers.

With 20% of the course completed, I am excited to see what’s next! Stay tuned for further insights as I continue my ProtoPie learning journey.

Resources

https://learn.protopie.io/start

https://learn.protopie.io/course/protopie-101

https://cloud.protopie.io/p/1a8b65c2398caca10872b720?ui=true&scaleToFit=true&enableHotspotHints=true&cursorType=touch&mockup=true&bgColor=%23F5F5F5&bgImage=undefined&playSpeed=1

by Annika Drießen -

IMPULSE #7 My Year of Rest and Relaxation

Introduction

Exploring Graz as an exchange student, I think it is important to experience local cultural institutions. I made use of a last minute offer for students at Schauspielhaus and watched a production of “My Year of Rest and Relaxation”, based on the novel of the same name by Ottessa Moshfegh.

In my experience Graz is a lively cultural center with loads of theatrical institutions. Everywhere in the city posters of new plays are posted and I regularly witness people cueing at the ticket office. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site and former European Capital of Culture (2003), Graz offers an impressive mix of historical and modern stages. I felt I had to witness at least one (if not a few more) plays at Schauspielhaus Graz. In this blog post, I’ll share my reflections on the play.

The Novel

Ottessa Moshfegh’s novel, published in 2018, tells the story of a young woman (26) in the early 2000s who suffers from inner emptiness and depression, despite external privileges such as beauty, education and wealth. She also struggles with the passing of her parents. She decides to put herself into a self-imposed “hibernation” for a year with the help of pills in order to escape the struggles and noise of the modern world.

Sleep felt productive. Something was getting sorted out. I knew in my heart—this was, perhaps, the only thing my heart knew back then—that when I’d slept enough, I’d be okay. I’d be renewed, reborn. I would be a whole new person, every one of my cells regenerated enough times that the old cells were just distant, foggy memories. My past life would be but a dream, and I could start over without regrets, bolstered by the bliss and serenity that I would have accumulated in my year of rest and relaxation.

― Ottessa Moshfegh, My Year of Rest and Relaxation

The production

As I enter the Schauspielhaus Graz, there are a lot of people shuffling about the foyer. It is a lively atmosphere. Even though the themes of the novel are quite dark, the audience seems to be eager and excited to watch the story unfold. The story of a young woman who wants to retreat into a drug-induced sleep for a year drew my attention – but I kept wondering how do you bring sleep and inner retreat to the stage? While the audience enters the theater hall actors are already on stage, anticipating the start of the play. One of the actors, playing the role of the main characters dog, moves about the stage barking. It is clear from the very first scenes that the production makes great use of surreal dream worlds. The main character seems like a sleepwalking observer of her own life. In contrast to the main character, other characters like her therapist, her ex-boss and her mother seem even more dramatic, over-the-top and demanding. The Surrealism connects throughout the play and is especially displayed in the stage design and lighting atmosphere. The protagonist’s thoughts were staged using projections, songs and sound design. Her inner retreat leaves a lot of questions and the scenes are not connected in a way that I am used to.

Reflection

After the performance, I left the theater with mixed feelings. The production was bolder than I had expected – weirder, more graphic, more surreal. But that’s exactly why I chose it as an IMPULSE for this research blog. The story surprised me, irritated me and stayed in my head. All the while showcased in a beautifully designed aesthetic setting.

Additionally the production made use of techniques we are currently learning at FH, such as projection mapping. Projections and scene lighting made it possible to visualize inner conflicts, states of awake and asleep, as well as the desire for alienation and the search for a way out of one’s own reality.

I feel like the discussed themes such as radical denial, escapism, social criticism, depression, mental health and self-discovery inspired me for future projects. The exploration of mental health was powerful. Addiction to medication as escapism was not romanticized, but shown as a downward spiral. How often in our hectic world and performance society do we ignore our need for calm and for a ‚reset‘? And how dangerous can this need become when it turns into complete isolation?

When I think about the play, I am left with a feeling of unease – but also the realization that theater should do exactly that: challenge, disturb and have a lasting effect.

Links

https://schauspielhaus-graz.buehnen-graz.com/produktion/mein-jahr-der-ruhe-und-entspannung

https://www.cityofdesign.graz.at

https://www.goodreads.com/work/quotes/55508660

by Annika Drießen -

IMPULSE #6 RaumFAIRteilung

As an exchange student in Graz I would like to immerse myself in local discussions and cultural activities. My friend invited me to join them at a talk organized by the LENDWIRBEL team at Kunsthaus. The series of events is called „RaumFAIRteilung – Wem gehört die Stadt? ”.

The event series consists of three different sessions with different focal points. The talks give the opportunity to gain deeper insights into the topic of fair distribution of space and to discuss forward-looking ideas with scientists.

What is LENDWIRBEL?

The LENDWIRBEL stands for the communal design of a neighborhood, for the social and tolerant use of space. On their website the LENDWIRBEL states that the LENDWIRBEL was born in 2007 from a loose idea of residents and workers in Lend. People didn’t stay within their own walls, but met on the street and brought a whirl to Lend, a city district in Graz. After a few years of implementation, the association „LENDWIRBEL – Verein für nachbarschaftliche Stadtentwicklung ” was founded in 2014. The organization has been carried out by a predominantly voluntary core team of interested people for several years.

What is RaumFAIRteilung?

The LENDWIRBEL team saw need for this lecture series and discourse because urban space is increasingly becoming a highly contested resource:

  • Housing is becoming more expensive.
  • Public spaces are disappearing.
  • Marginalized groups are often displaced.

Through the series of lectures, the LENDWIRBEL team would like to strengthen the discourse within the LENDWIRBEL association. They want to critically examine the challenges and potential of public space and develop new perspectives, including for future events. They engage critically with current topics at eye level and open the space for questions like: How can we make space fairer and accessible to all? How can we achieve solidarity with one another that does not exclude anyone?

The talk I visited was held by scientist Yvonne Franz on gentrification and what roles different actors play in urban gentrification processes.

During her talk Yvonne talked about early indicators for gentrification and her research on the topic in Vienna and Berlin. She mentioned sociologist Ruth Glass, who coined the term ‚gentrification‘ in 1964 to describe change in London. She mentioned different types of displacement and repression. After about an hour of theoretical input the organizers invited us to partake in an open question round. Once the Q&A wrapped up we gathered in the middle of the room to have a look at postcards that were printed with imagery linked to gentrification.

Key Take-Aways

  • Most shifts like gentrification have early indicators that can be observed through research as early as 10 years before it becomes an issue
  • The increased cost of living, that reduces the accessibility for housing space is sometimes also driven by good social initiatives like the social housing scheme in Vienna. Not everyone can apply or keep up the status for social housing. These people, if the are low-income or not, are driven to the private housing sector that displays even more dynamic pricing than elsewhere.

Links:

www.lendwirbel.at

https://geographie.univie.ac.at/arbeitsgruppen/urban-studies/team/franz-yvonne

by katharina.rauch -

Impulse #6 // Video Workshop // Build User-Adaptive Interfaces, Adam Argyle

As further impulse for my blog posts, I have chosen a YouTube workshop – but this time from the developer’s point of view (Chrome for Developers). So far, my content has been more related to the design perspective, and my basic result with my master’s thesis will also be more focused to this aspect. But in order to be able to look at this in its entirety, insights into development will also be necessary – both in the past (as here, what was and is already possible) and above all in the future (what will still be possible with AI and co.).

Creating User-Adaptive Interfaces: A Foundation for Future Research

In a world where personalization plays a crucial role in shaping user experiences, the concept of user-adaptive interfaces is gaining significant attention. These interfaces automatically adjust to a user’s preferences, device, and environment without requiring explicit input. This idea was explored in Adam Argyle’s three-year-old workshop on creating user-adaptive interfaces using CSS, which remains highly relevant today. The core takeaway from Argyle’s workshop was how web developers can leverage CSS techniques to design interfaces that dynamically adapt to various user preferences. For me, this workshop served as an essential foundation for my research, providing a glimpse into what was possible at the time and what will only continue to grow in the future.

User Preferences and CSS: Building Adaptive Experiences

Argyle opened the workshop by highlighting the goal of creating user-adaptive interfaces: ensuring a seamless experience for users without them needing to adjust settings. The interface should adapt transparently to the user’s preferences, such as operating system settings for light/dark mode, font size, or motion preferences, without them ever needing to interact with settings manually. To demonstrate this, Argyle used an example of a settings page that adapts to the user’s system preferences. The goal was to ensure that the settings and design of the page respond automatically to the user’s environment. For example, if a user prefers a light or dark theme or has set their operating system’s font size to be larger, the interface would respect these preferences without the user needing to manually select options on the page. This transparent adaptation is crucial for creating a user experience that feels personalized and effortless.

Key Techniques: Media Queries and Relative Units

Argyle discussed several key CSS techniques that are crucial for building these adaptive interfaces, starting with media queries. Media queries allow developers to apply different styles based on factors such as device size, orientation, and user preferences like font size or color scheme. One important lesson was the use of relative units like rem instead of fixed pixel values. rem units ensure that the design respects the user’s font size preferences, whether they adjust font size through the operating system or the browser. By building the design using relative units, interfaces can better adapt to users’ preferences, making text readable for all users, no matter their settings. Argyle also introduced the concept of logical properties in CSS, which help create interfaces that adjust to different writing directions (e.g., left-to-right or right-to-left). Using properties like margin-inline-start and margin-inline-end ensures that the layout adapts automatically to languages with different reading orientations without requiring additional code for each language.

Accessibility: Adapting to Different Input Devices

One essential takeaway from the workshop was again accessibility. Argyle emphasized the importance of creating designs that adapt to different input methods, such as mouse, keyboard, touch, and screen readers. For instance, the size of clickable elements like checkboxes should change depending on the type of input device. Users with touch input would benefit from larger checkboxes, while those using a mouse can interact with smaller elements. By leveraging CSS to detect the type of input method and adapt the interface accordingly, developers can ensure a more inclusive user experience for everyone, regardless of their device or input preference.

Motion Preferences and Layouts

Another important topic covered in the workshop was motion preferences, especially for users sensitive to animations. With the growing use of reduce-motion settings in operating systems and browsers, it is essential to design interfaces that can automatically adjust to these settings. Argyle showed how to use media queries like prefers-reduced-motion to disable or alter animations for users who are sensitive to motion. Additionally, Argyle demonstrated how CSS could be used to create motion-sensitive animations that could be disabled for users with motion preferences. This dynamic adaptation of animations ensures that the experience remains accessible to a wider range of users.

The Road Ahead: My Research and Future Exploration

Reflecting on this workshop, I realize that it offers a solid starting point for my research into user-adaptive interfaces. The techniques Argyle introduced were groundbreaking at the time – approximately three years ago – and they serve as a foundation for my work in exploring how CSS can be leveraged to create more personalized, dynamic, and inclusive interfaces. For my research, this workshop acts as a stepping stone, offering a glimpse into the potential of user-adaptive interfaces. It’s exciting to think about how these techniques will evolve and expand in the future. For example, personalized interactions, deeper integration with machine learning, and more real-time adaptations based on user behavior could transform how interfaces respond to users. This workshop has helped shape the way I think about adaptive design, and moving forward, I will continue to explore how these principles can be taken further. While the techniques Argyle demonstrated are already effective, the future holds immense possibilities for creating more inclusive, efficient, and dynamic web experiences. As the technology continues to evolve, the ability to create interfaces that intuitively respond to the user’s preferences will only grow, offering endless opportunities for innovation.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the workshop on user-adaptive interfaces was an insightful starting point for my research, providing a foundational understanding of what is and was already technically possible at the time. Although the video was uploaded three years ago, it remains an exciting glimpse into the potential of CSS in creating interfaces that adjust to users’ needs. Moving forward, I look forward to expanding on these ideas and exploring how future technologies, like AI, can enhance adaptive design even further. This is just the beginning of a broader journey into more responsive and personalized interfaces and experiences.

Links

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=865olcAfwFg
https://goo.gle/cds21-allsessions
https://goo.gle/ChromeDevs

by Paula Strugačevac -

IMPULSE #3 – Experience with Meldezettel

One of the first things I encountered upon arriving in Austria was a visit to the registration office to submit and verify the registration certificate (Meldezettel). This document is mandatory and must be submitted within a few days of entering the country. During the university’s introductory week, we were informed about this obligation and shown what and how to fill out the form. Despite having support from university staff, the dormitory manager, and step-by-step instructions, I still faced misunderstandings and challenges.

The first issue that significantly complicated filling out the form was that everything on it was in German. I had to compare what was written on the form with the instructions provided, trying to figure out what specifically applied to me since not all information needed to be filled in. Instead of taking one to two minutes to complete the form, it took me at least ten minutes to ensure everything was correctly filled out. In the end, I had to use Google Translate and ask friends sitting next to me what exactly needed to be filled in because I was afraid of entering incorrect information despite all the instructions. This part of the process was exhausting and frustrating.

After successfully completing the form, the next step was booking an appointment to submit the document online. This part of the process was slightly easier because it was digital, but it was still not straightforward to find the exact option I needed to select to get to the required section. With numerous instructions and additional research, I managed to book an appointment at the office closest to my residence. However, some of my friends were not as fortunate and required extra help to do the same.

The third problem arose during my visit to the office. I followed Google Maps and arrived at the location I had chosen online, but I couldn’t find the entrance to the office. I was standing right in front of the building, but out of all the doors available, I somehow ended up confused and lost. Fortunately, this problem was resolved quickly as I noticed a small sign pointing to the office. I followed it and eventually found the place I was looking for.

I wanted to describe this experience because I believe it can be significantly improved and enhanced. Throughout the entire process, the dominant emotions were confusion, feeling lost, insecurity, and being overwhelmed—mostly negative emotions. I believe that digitalization and the use of AI assistants could greatly ease this process. Why does this kind of task necessarily have to be paper-based? If the document is filled out digitally, it can be printed, signed, and stamped at the end. This would greatly simplify the procedure. Additionally, digital forms allow for language selection, which is crucial for foreign students or workers arriving in a new country.

Apart from digital support, in-person support is also crucial. Clear signage can greatly reduce confusion and frustration. Without proper signage, we are just as lost in our own country as when encountering a language we don’t understand. Improving signage could include larger labels, readable symbols, or interactive kiosks providing additional information.

Furthermore, the entire system must consider people with disabilities. I am a person without disabilities and already felt confused and overwhelmed. I can’t even imagine how challenging it would be for someone with visual impairments or other difficulties to complete this task independently. Systems that prioritize inclusivity and accessibility have the potential to benefit everyone. Moreover, it is essential for designers of such processes to experience the entire process themselves and conduct testing with diverse user groups. Without this, we end up with solutions that fail to meet users‘ real needs. Introducing AI assistants, such as chatbots that answer questions and guide users through the steps in real-time, could greatly reduce stress and improve users‘ success in completing such tasks.

In conclusion, my experience with registration in Austria was challenging, but it highlighted the significant potential for improvement. Digitalisation and the inclusion of AI technology, alongside better signage systems and enhanced accessibility, can greatly improve these processes. By providing multilingual options, clear instructions, and accessibility for all users, confusion and frustration would be minimized, ensuring a positive user experience. Ultimately, the goal of design and technology should be to make life easier for everyone, regardless of their background or abilities.

*ChatGPT was used to summarize and translate text from Croatian to English

Links
  1. https://www.graz.at/cms/beitrag/10022850/7744229/Wohnsitz_anmelden_und_ummelden_Meldezettel.html
  2. https://www.etermin.net/stadtgraz
  3. https://www.fh-joanneum.at/international/services/orientierungspakete/
by lucas.nuss -

Impulse 07 // Project Zanzibar

Project Zanzibar: A Portable and Flexible Tangible Interaction Platform

After refreshing my research on Calm Technology, I wanted to look at Tangible Interfaces for my next blog post, as it is the second component of my soon to be started Master’s thesis. While researching for an impulse like an event or presentation, I found one of the most exciting tangible interface developments I have seen so far. Microsoft’s Project Zanzibar. So I decided to explore and get to know the project instead. This innovative research project presents a flexible, rollable mat that enables seamless interaction between the physical and digital worlds using touch, gestures and tagged objects. It creates what I believe to be a calm, tangible interface without losing the digital benefits of smart products and without being intrusive or demanding.

The Project

Project Zanzibar is a tangible interaction platform developed by Microsoft Research. At its core is a flexible mat embedded with a Near Field Communication (NFC) system and capacitive sensing technology. This enables the mat to track touch, recognise gestures and interact with physical objects placed on it. The mat is designed to be portable, with a rollable form factor that makes it easy to transport and use in different contexts. Unlike traditional tabletop interfaces that rely on optical tracking and projection, Zanzibar integrates NFC and capacitive sensing to enable real-time object recognition and manipulation without the constraints of fixed installations. This makes it a promising tool for game design, education and creative storytelling, offering new possibilities for tangible interaction.

The Zanzibar mat identifies and tracks objects using NFC tags, which are simple, low-cost stickers attached to physical objects. These tags store unique identifiers that allow the mat to recognise specific objects and their movements. In addition, the capacitive sensing technology enables multi-touch interactions and hover gestures, enhancing the way users can interact with digital content through physical manipulation. One of the unique features of Zanzibar is its ability to sense object orientation and stacking. By using special NFC tag designs with metallic properties, the mat can detect the rotation of an object. Stacking tags allow Zanzibar to determine the order of stacked objects, making it ideal for applications such as board games or layered data visualisation.

One of the biggest challenges in interaction design is finding ways to physical and digital experiences seamlessly. Zanzibar demonstrates a compelling approach by enabling natural interactions with everyday objects, making digital experiences more intuitive and engaging. By supporting energy harvesting NFC tags, the platform enables more advanced interactions. For example, interactive tags can be used to light up LEDs or trigger small actuators, creating dynamic and responsive tangible objects. These features could be particularly useful in education, where physical engagement improves learning outcomes, or in IoT applications, where physical controls could interact with intelligent environments.

Applications

Project Zanzibar has been explored in a number of interactive applications, particularly in the gaming and education sectors. For example, Pirate Toybox is a game where physical toy figures placed on the mat trigger corresponding digital dialogues and actions. The system uses audio feedback to create immersive, screen-free gaming experiences. Another exciting use case is Movie Maker, an application aimed at children aged 5-12. This tool allows children to tell stories by manipulating physical toys and props on the mat, which then control digital avatars on a connected screen. This provides an intuitive way for children to explore storytelling and animation through tangible interactions. Zanzibar has also been tested in Augmented Reality (AR) applications. In AR Tower Defence, the mat is used in combination with a Microsoft HoloLens device to create a hybrid AR gaming experience. Players use tangible objects to control characters and place defences, while viewing digital overlays through the AR headset.

Reflection

As I will be focusing on tangible interfaces for notification interactions and smart products in my research and master’s thesis on Calm Technology, Project Zanzibar serves as an inspiration for designing more seamless and ambient interactions. The mat’s ability to integrate digital notifications through tangible objects provides a unique opportunity to explore alternative ways of interacting with digital information beyond screens and traditional input methods. This is exactly what I am trying to achieve with the practical part of my master’s thesis. Imagine, for example, a home automation system that uses tangible objects on a Zanzibar-like surface to control lighting, temperature or music in an intuitive, non-intrusive way. It shows that with the technology we already have, we are no longer tied to screen-based and disruptive products, and that is what we should be aiming for to create a future where digitality and reality work in balance, respecting human needs and boundaries once again.

by mert.altinoez -

Impulse #6 – Videocall with Martin, digital-liechtenstein.li

As you may already know, digital-liechtenstein.li is supporting me during my master’s thesis, and I’ve been in regular contact with Martin via email since last summer. Last week, we decided it was time for a videocall to discuss the current state of affairs. On Wednesday, we had a one-hour meeting via Teams.

For those unfamiliar, the location initiative digital-liechtenstein.li has been actively driving Liechtenstein’s digital transformation since 2017. Backed by over 55 companies and organizations from business, science, and politics, it serves as a central platform for innovation, knowledge exchange, and networking. Under the patronage of the Princely House and the government, the initiative supports Liechtenstein’s digital transformation through projects, events, and public relations. Its key projects include the Cybersecurity Check Platform, an IT job portal, educational initiatives, and the promotion of future skills. With the Digital Roadmap 2030, published in December 2023, digital-liechtenstein.li has set clear goals and measures for further developing Liechtenstein as a digital hub. By connecting companies, academic institutions, and government organizations, the initiative plays a vital role in shaping Liechtenstein’s digital future.

While digital sustainability is mentioned in the Digital Roadmap 2030, digital-liechtenstein.li lacks expertise in this area and does not yet offer actionable recommendations for its partners. This is one of the reasons why they partnered with me. I benefit greatly from this collaboration, as it gives me access to their network and the prestige they hold within Liechtenstein’s economy. They can connect me with their partners, such as Hilti, LGT, and Thyssenkrupp, who have experts in digital sustainability. At the same time, I have complete freedom to define the scope of my master’s thesis, as long as I provide valuable insights on the topic that they can share with their partners and network.

The main goal of our videocall was to exchange updates on our progress. One of the most important topics we discussed was the survey I created in November, which focused on digital sustainability in companies within Liechtenstein. The survey aimed to assess companies’ interest in the topic, their existing knowledge, and the actions they’ve already taken. Unfortunately, despite digital-liechtenstein.li sharing the survey with around 80 partner organizations, the results were disappointing—we only received 8 responses, which means I cannot use the survey data for my master’s thesis.

Nevertheless, the responses did provide some interesting insights. Based on the low participation rate, I assume that digital sustainability is not a priority for most companies. Additionally, the results revealed that while most organizations are aware of digital sustainability, they haven’t taken significant steps to address it. Companies showed more interest in the topic when they understood its direct benefits and expressed a need for expert-led workshops and consultations. As expected, many organizations are unaware of the impact designers can have when incorporating digital sustainability principles into daily operations and product development methods.

Martin suggested distributing the survey more widely, beyond their partner network, but I feel that this might not be necessary at this point.

During the call, we also discussed the direction of my master’s thesis. I asked Martin if they had any specific needs, but he confirmed that they are open to any insights I can provide. We agreed that I would take a funnel approach, starting broadly and then narrowing down to a specific aspect of digital sustainability. This approach works well for me, as I’m still deciding which focus area to prioritize. Martin also mentioned that I could explore raising awareness about the topic or providing tools and methods for implementing digital sustainability within design processes.

In conclusion, this videocall with Martin was highly productive. It clarified the scope of my thesis and reassured me that I have the freedom to shape my research according to my strengths and interests. Moving forward, I aim to create actionable insights that not only benefit digital-liechtenstein.li and its partners but also contribute meaningfully to the conversation on digital sustainability in the region. This collaboration is an exciting opportunity to bridge the gap between academia and industry while advancing an important and timely topic.

Links

digital-liechtenstein.li: https://digital-liechtenstein.li/

by lamija.kocan -

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. 

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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

by karolina.malec -

IMPULSE #8

The Long Night of Application: A Life-Changing Event for Job Seekers

On November 27th, 2023, I had the privilege of participating in the Long Night of Application (Lange Nacht der Bewerbung), an event that proved to be a turning point in my UX career. Hosted in Graz, this unique gathering felt like speed dating, but instead of looking for romantic connections, participants engaged in rapid-fire interviews with potential employers. The concept was simple yet powerful: give job seekers and companies a chance to meet, interact, and discover mutual opportunities – all in one night.

What Makes It Special?

The event is designed to connect job seekers with a wide array of companies, breaking down traditional barriers of recruitment. It’s fast-paced, dynamic, and highly engaging. For someone exploring career opportunities, it’s an unbeatable way to maximize exposure and connect with employers in a condensed timeframe.

In just a few hours, I had eight interviews with different companies. Each interaction provided a unique insight into the companies‘ cultures, expectations, and potential roles. This variety allowed me to refine my preferences and approach for future interviews. What’s more, the event isn’t just about ticking off interviews – it’s about genuine connections. Employers are there because they’re actively seeking talent, which creates a good opportunity for job seekers.

A Life-Changing Experience

Both my colleague Kathi and I walked away from the Long Night of Application with something extraordinary: job offers! It’s remarkable to think that one evening, filled with back-to-back conversations, could lead to such a significant outcome for both of us.

Tips for Future Participants

If you’re considering attending, here’s my advice:

  • Bring your portfolio on your laptop: Visuals can say more than words, especially if language is a concern.
  • Stay open-minded: You never know which company or role might resonate with you until you’ve had that conversation.
  • Prepare for a fast-paced evening: It’s exciting and intense, so bring your energy and focus.

Final Thoughts

The Long Night of Application isn’t just another job fair; it’s a transformative experience that can open doors you didn’t even know existed. Whether you’re a local or an international job seeker, this event is a must-attend for anyone looking to jumpstart their career.

https://www.langenachtderbewerbung.com/

by karolina.malec -

IMPULSE #7

A Creative Evening: My Experience at the Vierter Stammtisch of Kreativ Kammerl Österreich

On November 29, 2023, I attended the Vierter Stammtisch, an event hosted by Kreativ Kammerl Österreich (KKO). It was a relaxed and friendly gathering where people from the creative industry came together to share ideas, stories, and enjoy some drinks.

What is KKO?

The idea behind Kreativ Kammerl Österreich is simple:
What if creatives could meet without the stress of work and just enjoy talking to each other over a cup of Glühwein?

From this thought, four professionals in the creative field built a platform for connection and conversation. KKO aims to bring together not only experienced professionals but also students and newcomers eager to learn and grow.

In an industry where schedules often clash and meetings are rushed, KKO offers a rare chance to meet others in a relaxed and informal setting.

The Evening’s Highlights

The Stammtisch was full of engaging conversations and a great exchange of ideas. Attendees ranged from seasoned professionals to students just entering the creative world. Topics covered industry challenges, creative trends, and personal experiences.

For me, this wasn’t just about meeting new people – it was a real opportunity to gain insights that connected with my academic work. As I’m working on my thesis, Developing the UX Playbook: A Research-Driven Approach to Optimizing Digital User Journeys, I saw strong parallels between the event’s goals and my research questions:

  1. How can a UX Playbook serve as a practical tool to bridge the gap between designers and stakeholders?
    • The Stammtisch reflected how important it is to have open, informal spaces for dialogue. This mirrors the need for UX Playbooks to act as a shared language between designers and stakeholders, fostering better understanding and collaboration.
  2. What are the key steps in a research-driven UX design process?
    • Hearing how other creatives approached problem-solving gave me valuable insights into their processes. It reinforced the importance of collaboration and user-centric approaches, two pillars of a strong research-driven UX methodology.

A Suggestion for the Future

One idea discussed during the event was to host future gatherings in English. While most conversations were in German, having an English option would make the event more inclusive for international creatives in Austria. This simple step could broaden the scope of conversations and invite diverse perspectives, much like how UX research benefits from a range of user inputs.

Final Thoughts

The Vierter Stammtisch was a fantastic experience, both personally and professionally. It showed me the value of community and the role that open conversations play in bridging gaps – whether between professionals in a room or designers and stakeholders in a project.

I left inspired and excited about the next steps in my thesis and the potential of future KKO events. Whether you’re a creative professional or just starting, I highly recommend joining these gatherings. Let’s continue building a more connected, collaborative creative community.

https://kreativkammerl.at/

https://www.facebook.com/kreativkammerl.at