08 CONCLUSION

Although the expected feedback varies from person to person, for most users, the

The goal of the project was to improve music sharing and communication experience among digital music users. I conducted the literature review, user study, and benchmark in the early phases of the project, which allowed me to investigate in depth the experience of sharing music and the need and value of the social aspect of music for streaming users living in a dematerialized era. These insights were used in the brainstorming session to inspire the design and manufacture of the Music Linker, a physical innovation.

As a physical design to help people share and receive music information, Music Linker's interactive form and shape incorporate a number of thematically relevant vintage physical product features. It provides a richer and more interesting user experience, inspiring people to share music more often.

During the final user test, the highly-detailed model helped me gain a great deal of insight into how the physical product itself and the physical interactions associated with the theme enhanced the user experience. However, it also revealed a number of missing design details.

Most importantly, through user testing, I discovered additional design insights that could aid in optimizing the music sharing experience, both for potential physical products in the future and for streaming music applications.