Group members:
Mansi Chottani, Kye Li Chia, Yuying Wang (Abbey), Zuzana Galova, Roshni Suri
Brief:
Design and make a new form for a dematerialised artefact
Date:
20th April - 8th June 2023
We began the week by creating a mind map specifically dedicated to breakup texts, jotting down our thoughts and questions related to this subject. Next, we analysed the mind map and identified the points that intrigued us the most. Based on the analysis, we proceeded with directed storytelling and online research to further explore the breakup texts.
During the directed storytelling exercise, we asked participants about their perspectives on breakup texts and alternative methods of ending a relationship. From the exercise, we identified several key points, including:
- Breakup texts may not be perceived as negative in cases of abusive relationships or long-distance relationships
- Compared to receiving a breakup letter, breakup texts are often seen as a lack of effort, as letters are considered more personal
- While breakup texts offer the advantage of being able to organise thoughts precisely, they lack the sensory experience associated with traditional methods of communication
- The two-dimensional nature of screens and binary code (0s and 1s) in breakup texts contrasts with the tangible aspects of emotions and feelings involved in the experience of breaking up
In the bodystorming session, we requested participants to write a breakup text. We observed that slang terms were rarely utilised in breakup texts compared to casual day-to-day conversations.
Additionally, we explored how pop culture influences the breakup culture, particularly through movie or show scenes depicting breakup texts, which can impact people's approach to ending relationships.
With the help of the "crazy 3s" technique, we developed a prototype that involved transforming breakup texts into songs. We explored three different methods of converting binary code into music.
The first approach involved using a music box component where holes could be punched into music sheets for playback.
The second approach involves hitting motions and vibrations, which could also be appreciated by the deaf community.
The third approach involved translating the breakup text into instrumental notes, similar to the first idea, but adaptable to be played on various musical instruments.
Our next steps:
- Explore the medium of text messages further to make the experience more sensory
- 1s and 0s and what else is there in the medium of texting that could be materialised
- Tapping patterns? Vibration? Manoeuvring the indicator with the space bar
Reflection:
The "crazy 8s" technique proved to be highly valuable in initiating the ideation process by encouraging us to rapidly jot down ideas on paper. Prior to that, we found ourselves stuck in unproductive discussions without making any progress. Thus, it was beneficial to start visualising and creating tangible elements to explore possibilities and improvements.