Semester 02 User Testing
Introduction
As a result of several technical difficulties with my artefacts, preparations for the open studio were chaotic. Additionally, I had a very sloppy table setup, lacking in details and appearing cluttered.
Prior to the Open Studio, the lecturer had us prepare a demo of how our tables would appear during the Open Studio. It was noted that I did not do a very good job of presenting my artefacts, and some suggestions were given regarding how to improve the presentation. For the purpose of improving our displays, the lecturer provided us with acrylic blocks and wooden blocks. In comparison to plain paper, the clear acrylic block gave a more polished appearance to my prints.
In order to help my users understand the purpose and how to interact with my artefacts, I have added short descriptions to them. Following my observations of my classmates' setups, I decided to provide a summary of my research topic and objective to enable users to understand why I designed my artifacts in the way that I did.
Five days before Open Studio, my Bluetooth speakers spoiled because of overcharging, forcing me to rush to purchase a replacement. The new speakers work well with my moss carpet, however, they are much softer and bigger than my previous speakers. Due to my need for a speaker with an AUX port, I had limited options to choose from. In order to resolve this issue, I attempted to increase the volume level of the audio clips in Adobe Audition to a level that will prevent audio clipping. In the aftermath of the Open Studio, I will have to devote a greater amount of time to designing the audio tracks.
From my preparations for Open Studio, I have learned the importance of starting early! Having attended the demo table setup session five days before Open Studio, I am extremely grateful. If my speakers failed on Monday, I would have been in full panic mode, since Open Studio commences on Tuesday, which means I would only have a day to fix any technical issues.
Open Studio Feedback
I presented my design outcomes during the Open Studio Session and received valuable feedback from my classmates and visitors. In general, the moss carpet artefact was well received, but I received feedback that I could enhance the user experience by including a short video that shows where I collected the field recordings to better engage the audience. Furthermore, I received feedback regarding my set-up display. Since my speakers are rather large in size, I felt that placing the right and left speakers together made the table appear crowded. In order to resolve this problem, someone suggested that I place the right and left speakers on separate platforms. I have been advised by most people that I should improve my audio transition because it stops very abruptly once you touch another sensor.
Many people commented on my textile noise maker that they liked the concept of manually rubbing to produce textile noise, and they said the sensation reminds them of ASMR, autonomous sensory meridian response; a sensation of tingling, static, or goosebumps in response to specific audio or visual stimuli. The visualisation for the textile noise maker in TouchDesigner will also require some time as more time was spent on the moss carpet.
Feedback Received