Conference Session: Presentation on VoxBox

Overview

• Final session before the keynote.
• Presenting four interesting papers focused on the latest applications of TEI (Tangible Embedded Interaction).

Presentation by Connie Holstein: VoxBox

Introduction

• Research conducted at University College London.
• Part of the Intel Collaborative Research Institute on Connected and Sustainable Cities.
• VoxBox: A tangible machine to gather public opinions at recreational events (e.g., fairs, festivals).

Purpose of VoxBox

• Gathers feedback about the "feel-good factor" of events.
• Aims:
  • Understand attendee enjoyment.
  • Identify memorable aspects of events.
  • Provide insights for future event improvements.

Limitations of Traditional Feedback Methods

• Traditional methods include:
  • Clipboard surveys during events.
  • Email surveys post-event.
• Issues:
  • Email surveys lack context of in-situ experiences.
  • Clipboard surveys often result in low response rates due to participant reluctance.

VoxBox Design and Features

• Engaging, playful design contrasts with traditional feedback methods.
• Physical Structure:
  • 1.5 meters (5 feet) tall.
  • Input methods include buttons, sliders, dials for user interaction.
• Feedback Mechanism:
  • Colorful balls as incentives that drop as users navigate through questions.
  • Real-time visualizations on the back to show collected data, engaging passers-by.

Design Principles

1. Encourage Participation
   • Large, inviting design to draw attention without disrupting the event.
   • Familiar input mechanisms reduce participation barriers.
2. Grouping of Questions
   • Similar questions grouped for logical flow and reduced intimidation.
3. Physical Incentives
   • Users receive tangible rewards (balls) for participation, increasing motivation.
4. Open Question Responses
   • Phone handset included to elicit thoughtful answers; approximately two-thirds provided meaningful feedback.
5. Linking Responses to Results
   • Real-time data visualization and physical URLs on balls to connect users to their data.

Implementation

• Constructed from plywood and Ikea shelving for modularity.
• Utilized off-the-shelf and custom components for functionality.
• Deployed at multiple events, including:
  • Digital democracy conference.
  • Tour de France fan parks.
  • Maker Hacker Festival.

Outcomes and Observations

• High engagement observed with users discussing answers while interacting.
• Colorful design attracted attention; people self-selected to participate.
• Interaction encouraged collaboration over isolation.

Future Directions

• Further projects inspired by VoxBox:
  1. Small Talk: Interactive boxes for children’s feedback on theater plays, incorporating audio prompts.
  2. UK Census Rethink: Engaging approach to collect census data, focusing on user willingness to share information based on service improvement promises.

Conclusion

• VoxBox demonstrated the effectiveness of engaging, tangible feedback mechanisms.
• Promising results from initial deployments leading to future explorations.

Q&A Highlights

• Discussion on user motivation: Users found the interaction fun, not just focused on content.
• Encouraged collaborative input, enhancing group participation without isolating individuals.