Interacting with user data – Theory and examples of drama and dramaturgy as methods of exploration and evaluation in user-centered design

Abstract

In this article, we discuss the application of drama and dramaturgy to user-centered product concept design (UCPCD) processes, aiming to create a more holistic approach to designing user experiences. We present the UCPCD process and its background, and a selection of interactive theater tools that can be applied to UCPCD. Through a case study we introduce a practical implementation of these tools to UCPCD. The paper concludes by suggesting guidelines for using drama and dramaturgy in concept design activities. The key finding is that drama methods deepen the designers' involvement in the process and improve understanding of the user communities' behavior.

Drawing and acting as user experience research tools

“…Finally, as Metho et al argue, "the different dramaturgical and performative forms bring up elements that would otherwise go unnoticed" [12]. As a concluding remark, most studies agree on judging the role of facilitator crucial and impacting results.…”

“…For instance Metho et al introduces state-of-the-art theories, methods, as well as case studies in [12]. In their work, they have identified seven types of drama-based workshops, among which the Drama workshop inspired the activities further described in this paper.…”

Enhancing the Design Process with Drama-Related Methods

“…They conclude that the value of the approach is in exposing the design team to 'users' and the contexts of use, including understanding the influence of location on the design in problem resolution and ideation. Mehto et al (2006) discuss the application of drama to create a more holistic approach to usercentered product concept design (UCPCD) processes, since users/participants in the drama will interact with the new technological concept at both practical and emotional levels. They explore several types of interactive theatre, play-back theatre, drama workshops and forum-theatre, on the basis that these methods have been useful in enabling participants to envision future products which may otherwise be difficult to imagine.…”

“…It also appears most useful in situations where communication would otherwise be difficult, such as in international workshops where language barriers may be an issue (Fleury, 2012). Acting sessions can facilitate the communication of emotions which are difficult to convey with words (Mehto et al, 2006). However, participating in drama can require courage particularly among people who are not actors, as we generally communicate through words and text, rather than acting (Brandt and Grunnet, 2000).…”

“…It looks at several phases of the process, including background research, understanding user needs, generation of ideas, and concept evaluation (Mehto et al, 2006). The focus is on methods in which participants act out scenarios to inform the design process, although comment is also made on other approaches which are influenced by drama but in which there is no acting.…”