This paper provides three readings of a seminal ubiquitous computing scenario by Marc Weiser. Three approaches from literary and critical theory are demonstrated in deconstructive, psychoanalytic and feminist readings of the scenario. The scenario is then represented in the style of the Hitch HIker's Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams and UBIK by Philip K. DIck. 

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The hitchhiker’s guide to ubicomp: using techniques from literary and critical theory to reframe scientific agendas

M Blythe (2014)

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Pastiche scenarios draw on fiction as a resource to explore user experience and the complex social and cultural issues raised by technological innovations. The first case study is an evaluation of the Apple iPod that explores the socio-cultural meanings of the technology. The second case study focuses on the participatory design of Net Neighbours, an online shopping system where volunteers shop as intermediaries for older people who do not have access to computers. The third is an in depth consideration of a conceptual design, the "cambadge" a wearable lightweight web cam which, upon activation broadcasts to police or public websites intended to reduce older people’s fear of crime.

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Pastiche scenarios: Fiction as a resource for user centred design

MA Blythe, PC Wright (2006)

January 03, 2023

Designing for older people requires the consideration of a range of design problems, which may be related to difficult and sometimes highly personal matters. Issues such as fear, loneliness, dependency, and physical decline may be0hard to observe or discuss in interviews. Pastiche scenarios and pastiche personae are techniques that employ characters to create a space for the discussion of new technological developments and user experience.

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Representing older people: towards meaningful images of the user in design scenarios

M Blythe, A Dearden (2009)

This paper draws on macro and micro theories of user experience in order to focus on the use of Apple's iPod. It begins by outlining macro theories from Cultural Studies on the process of product articulation illustrated with reference to the Sony Walkman.

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BRIDGET JONES’IPOD

M Blythe, P Wright (2005)