Fitter, happier, more productive
I have started reading Positive Computing, by Rafael A. Calvo and Dorian Peters of Young and Well in Australia. It sounds rather techy, but in actual fact the book is very accessible and I think relevant for any designer wanting to put their skills to 'good' use.
It provides the theory behind and a road map toward designing and developing with technology in such a way that it promotes human wellbeing. 'Positive Psychology' suggests that rather than simply eliminating disease (like a doctor) we take it a step further and promote being well. Calvo and Peters argue that this is the approach we should be taking with technology. We have made major technological advances and have scores of devices to assist us but we remain as happy and as healthy as we were 20 years ago β so what has technology really provided? Why can we not use technology as a force for good, helping humans fulfil their potential, helping people be happy, promoting their wellbeing. Inject the human into technology β rather than focusing on the productivity and efficiency of a machine.
Perhaps as designers we need to apply a little Positive Psychology to our own practice. Not simply eliminating illness (or solving problems), but actually promoting wellness.
The book arrived on my doorstep yesterday so I am not very far in, but I think it's quite exciting and I suspect there will be more to follow.
