AR EXPERIENCE DESIGN: CREATIVE BURNOUT
BRIEF
The objective of this project was to develop an immersive augmented reality experience around a concept. Utilizing design principles and augmented reality production techniques, the aim is to create an engaging experience with emerging technologies in a graphic design context.
CHALLENGE
From the required objectives I had to choose from for the project, I decided to come up with a concept that would educate the viewer by presenting information in an interactive and engaging way. I chose the subject of 'Creative Burnout' as I was struggling with it at the end of the school year and thought that many others could also relate to it. For my target audience, I narrowed it down from creatives to graphic design students, like myself. To achieve this, I created a digital desktop-style visual that would resonate with them. The information is presented in two parts: the first describes the symptoms of creative burnout, and the second offers solutions to guide viewers.
ROLE
AR Experience, Vector Illustration, Visual Design
TOOLS
Adobe Aero and Illustrator
TEAM
Solo Designer
WHY
School Project
STICKER DESIGN
For the sticker design, I focused on using elements that would catch a person's attention when walking by. To achieve this, I used bright colors such as pink, yellow, and blue, and incorporated a variety of complementary graphics relating to computers and design. Since it is aimed at graphic design students, I made sure the graphics had a digital feel. For the question, I chose to put "Still thinking of ideas?". I wanted it to be a bit "cryptic", so that people wouldn't know it was about creative burnout but would still hint at it, in order to encourage them to scan the sticker and use the AR.
Scan the sticker to experience the AR at home!
LOCATION
At my university, there is a specific building where graphic design classes are at. In the hallway where the majority of the classes are, there is also a digital lab where graphic designs students go to to print, prototype, etc. I wanted to be near the digital lab, so it'll be easy access for them to see. A lot of ideas are passed around (either internally or externally) in this hallway, so I thought it was appropriate to put it this location.
AR EXPERIENCE WALKTHROUGH
RESEARCH
Before designing the AR experience, I conducted research to get the right content when displaying the information about creative burnout. When finding information, I made sure to get definitions, descriptions, and solutions, which helped guide how I wanted to display creative burnout.
SKETCHES
For my sketches, I focused heavily on how the interaction would look when someone goes through the AR. I aimed to have plenty of graphics to make it visually interesting while ensuring enough content to make it engaging for the viewer.
PROTOTYPING
Throughout the process of creating the augmented reality, prototyping was essential to ensure a smooth experience. As I made updates in adding graphics and behaviors, I tested the design to ensure correct sizing and overall appearance. An image is below to show how the whole design looked in Adobe Aero.
REFLECTION
This was a completely new experience for me to combine design with technology. It involved a lot of trial and error and prototyping to ensure the experience was smooth and interactive, which was challenging to consider at first. This project made me think more about experience design and how design can enhance technology.
