Searching for salient aspects of resonant interaction

Caroline Hummels

in: Knowledge, Technology & Policy 20 (1), 2007.

Abstract

This paper illustrates my quest for diversity, more specifically resonant interaction with products. Resonance occurs due to the perfect interplay between a person and a product. It evokes strong positive emotions, unique accompanying behaviour, heightened awareness and cognitive processing. In this paper, I first explain the importance of diversifying designs, especially now we are pursuing the next generation of digital products. I show that designing for resonance can be a way to achieve diversity. I clarify the concept of resonance and resonant interaction. Subsequently, I explain the importance of research through design to study this phenomenon, i.e., by designing in a way that results in experiential prototypes, and subsequently testing these prototypes, scientific knowledge can be generated. Through these prototypes, I study the relationship between the individual user with his concerns, values, personality, skills, senses and effectivities on the one hand, and the interaction and product characteristics on the other hand. The paper concludes with two studies illustrating the way of working and the kind of answers I am obtaining with respect to resonant interaction. It appears that one can design for personality and prolong positive emotions even after the interaction has stopped, which strengthens the case for searching for salient aspects of resonant interaction.