Portfolio -Dongting QIN

< RESEARCH >

< ARTIST RESEARCH >

MAURICE MERLEAU-PONTY

posited that humans rely on their senses to affirm their self-awareness.

THOMAS REID’S

theory of natural signs positions touch as an inherent natural sign The sense of touch, like the artificial symbol, has neither similarity nor necessary connection with the hardness it refers to, it is only a symbol pointing to the hardness.

< INSPIRATION > While watching “Upload,” I encountered a virtual reality hotel for the uploaded consciousness of the deceased. Ray Kurzweil in “The Singularity is Near” predicted that nanoscale brain scanning technology would allow us to transfer our intelligence and emotions to non-organic carriers.

This led me to explore the essence of consciousness, which connects us to the external world. If human consciousness can be uploaded and simulated, this connection becomes digital. How will our consciousness evolve when our perceptions are replaced by data streams?

Latour says we have never been modern.Humans have been coevolving with technology for thousands of years and reshaping humanity in ways that are profound and subtle, but we have never possessed a solid humanity

< TOUCH & SENSE > SELFIE RETOUCHING People modify the objective representation of themselves in photographs. The edited images essentially become virtual avatars, a departure from their physical selves.

< VIRTUAL & PHYSICAL >

< THINKING POINT > Throughout human evolution, our senses have served as vital links to the external world. They capture environmental information, processed and experienced through our consciousness, shaping our understanding and emotional responses to the world.

SOCIAL PHENOMENON

Descartes theorized that the mind could exist apart from the body, allowing for a purely mental world.

Dongting QIN

He proposed that television, digital computers, and other “electronic media” use beams of light and similar scanning techniques to continually “touch” the contours around them.

The co-evolution of humans and technology continues to reshape human nature

theory of mind-body dualism posits that individuals consist of two distinct entities: the physical body and the mind.

Project/ 1

MARSHALL MCLUHAN

argued that television is not just an extension of vision and hearing, but also an extension of touch

KATHERINE HAYLES

RENÉ DESCARTES

Individual Tactile Exploration After Forsaking the Flesh

Our bodies and senses are crucial for understanding and perceiving the world, not just our consciousness or thoughts. We connect with the world directly through touch, rooted in our body’s existence and movement.

AVATARS ARE POPULAR In the realm of social media, there’s a growing preference for interacting through virtual personas for activities like socializing, gaming, and participating in meetings.

TECHNOLOGICAL PROGRESS Neuralink is in the process of experimenting with its brain-computer interface technology.

HILARY PUTNAM

brain in a jar

This thought experiment imagines a brain placed in a vat and receiving sensory information through computer stimulation that is indistinguishable from normal life experiences, thereby questioning our perception and understanding of physical reality.

Tactile sense, being the core of human interaction with the outside, is essential in its representation and simulation in the virtual world. With the development of virtual technology, the roles and identities of humans are also facing reshaping. Our relationship with technology is no longer just a simple relationship between the user and the user. In the virtual world, our behaviors, habits, and ways of thinking will be challenged and transformed, forming a new symbiotic relationship.

Synthetic Eros Zhiqin Lu “Synthetic Eros” confronts cultural taboos around eroticism and the shortfall of sex education in Chinese culture through immersive design, aiming to provoke thought and reflection.

In building the future virtual world, we must deeply consider the relationship between consciousness and the senses, which can be wholly constructed, shaped, and refined. On this basis, we can ensure that the virtual world is not only a showcase of technology but also an extension and sublimation of humanity.

The Body Architect Lucy McRae McRae’s diverse projects, from fashion for musician Robyn to perfume-sweat pills and interactive electronic tattoos, challenge and redefine our interaction with technology.

PROJECT 1

< EXPERIMENT >

< DESIGN IDEAS >

Tactile Variations in Dreams:

In dreams, touch transcends reality, becoming exquisitely fine and airy.

Fingers seem to caress the softness of air itself, creating a deep, wondrous immersion. Yet, dream touch can reflect emotions, turning sharp and prickly, stirring unease and fear. At times, it’s gentle and vibratory, offering a comforting warmth and soulful peace.

In exploring the tactile sensation of a digitized brain, I considered how dreams vividly simulate touch without physical contact. Pillows, as symbols of sleep, bridge dreams and reality. Thus, I selected pillows for the exhibit, where squeezing them invites meditation, sleep, and novel experiences.

< MINDMAP > < WORKSHOP > In my workshop, we explore converting touch into visual symbols, moving beyond expressing sensation to creating new forms. We aim to uncover the overlooked aspect of tactile awareness, hoping to spark creativity and foster innovative idea exchanges through this collective art experience.

< MEDITATIVE PAINTING >

Dongting QIN

1.

< RULE >

2.

3.

1.Meditation Phase Initiate with ambient music to guide participants in deep breathing exercises, nurturing relaxation of both body and mind, easing into a meditative state. During this meditation, participants are prompted to visualize the sensation of touching diverse objects like a plush toy, ice, a wall, and a personal favorite item, spending approximately 30 seconds on each.

2. Drawing Phase Post-meditation, participants are encouraged to immediately depict their tactile experiences on square white paper using pencils or markers. They’re urged to convey their tactile impressions through lines, shapes, and basic figures.

3. Discussion and Sharing Participants share their drawings and discuss their experiences. Peers guess the objects depicted in the artwork. Feedback on the workshop is encouraged. The drawings and insights are collected for analysis afterward.

The pillow, a symbol of sleep, serves as both an artistic medium for capturing touch and a digital tool for converting tactile experiences into visual dynamics.

In my visual language, smooth curves depict gentle, flowing touch, while dense, sharp lines convey prickliness and sharp sensations.

Through Touchdesigner, the visual symbols are turned into a generative art scene with experimental and psychedelic colors, giving new life and form to the touch transformation, resulting in a distinct visual appeal.

< PROCESS > Using Arduino and pressure sensors, I crafted code that bridges digital and analog realms, reminiscent of the future. Contact and pressure on the pillow generate a “negative space” and are converted into digital signals, represented in binary code. This captures and translates the nuances of touch into a visual digital language.

PROJECT 1

< DISPLAY MODE >

< OUTCOME >

In a white gallery, my installation art piece features a central screen connected to several pillows by cables. Each pillow captures tactile signals, digitally converts them, and displays them as unique visual expressions on the screen. This setup highlights individual touch and symbolizes collective human experiences. Visitors can interact with the pillows and see their touch translated into visual patterns on the screen, reflecting their tactile sensations in real time.

Post-interaction, visitors can scan a QR code on the pillow to get a custom electronic card, which serves as both a souvenir and a unique record of their tactile interaction. This system captures and preserves each person’s tactile experience forever.

Integral Video

Link: https://vimeo.com/901911235

PART 1 Exhibition Visual Identity Design

< FLOW CHART > PILLOW

The collector of tactile consciousness In dreams people experience the presence of tactile awareness

SLEEP The pillow and the person touch and squeeze

Evolution of tactile consciousness

The quantized value is obtained by the sensor

Tactile sensations in virtual consciousness

PROCESSING Arduino Touch sensor

INPUT Analog signal to digital signal (conversion) Consciousness upload

Dongting QIN

Tactile acquisition

OUTPUT

DEVICE

Touch Designer

SCREEN

Abstract feedback screen generated by real-time haptics

PROJECT 1

Dongting QIN

}

Serial.println(output); //Serial.println(res1); delay(500);

output = 0; } else { output = 1 (sensorValue / 300); }

{

float output; if (sensorValue > 300)

//if (res1 <= res2) { // sensorValue = res2; //}else{ sensorValue = res1; // } if (sensorValue <= 0) { sensorValue=0; }

void loop() { res1 = analogRead(pin1)-35; // res2 = analogRead(pin2)-35;

}

void setup() { Serial.begin(9600); pinMode(pin1,INPUT); // pinMode(pin2,INPUT); // pinMode(pin2,INPUT);

int pin1 = A0; //int pin2 = A1; //int pin2 = A2; int res1; int res2; int sensorValue;

< OUTCOME > PART 2 Installation

PART 3 Screen Video

PROJECT 1

INSIPRATION

RESEARCH

& 2023 Co-creator: Qin Dongting (Jason) Ye Yunxi (Lucy) Wang Changzhi (Cedric) Liao Qiran (Kerry) This project is a collaborative project, with each member jointly participating in the work of various processes. I mainly engaged in concept conception, curation, installation production, interactive device coding and design, and interactive poster design work.

Project/ 2 Group Work

CONCEPT

SKETCH&MINDMAP

PROCESS

EXHIBITION VISUALS POSTER

This exhibition invitation poster utilizes innovative technology to track the viewer's gaze through a camera, creating a unique multi-layered visual effect. It cleverly echoes the themes of "peep," "desire," and "unveiling the deeper meanings beneath the surface" explored in the exhibition. The work is developed using P5.js technology, and you can interact with it or view the code through the link below. https://openprocessing.org/sketch/1937985

BROCHURE&TICKETS

EXHITBITION

This installation that probes into the cyclical nature of desire in contemporary society. The piece centers on a large black rectangular structure with a peephole, inviting viewers to glimpse its inner world.

Utilizing technologies like Touchdesigner and Raspberry Pi, the installation records the observer's eye as they peer through the peephole, where experimental short films play, and white silk threads dance on plaster in response to sound waves, evoking the sensation of a cocoon.

The white threads, refracted through mirrors, cast a bright pink glow, symbolizing the hidden desires within each viewer's sight. This design metaphorically showcases the continuous cycle of human desires driving life's transformations and the profound implications of embracing one's destiny.

EXPERIMENTAL SHORT FILM DISPLAYED IN THE INSTALLATION Incorporating individuals and societal scenes within the shape of a silkworm cocoon, this piece symbolizes the profound notion of humans and society being bound and driven by desire. The video work is displayed in a loop on a screen at the base of the installation, offering viewers a voyeuristic perspective to observe and experience.

Video: https://youtu.be/Fnpyzw0g0i4

IMMERSIVE SOUND The sound is combined with two levels.

The first level, the basic sound is an electronic melodic rhythm using Ableton.

The second level has two parts, the first part is our own recording of the noisy sounds in our lives, connecting human desires to our devices.

The second part is the sound of machines, recording the sound of some machines around us, such as the sound of opening doors and the sound of some computers operating.

Showcase Video:

https://youtu.be/K2B_zZH5XNw

PEEPHOLE

SCREEN DISPLAY VIEWERS’ EYE

REAL COCOON ON THE BOTTOM!

On entering the exhibition, you will see this peephole.

Curiosity constitutes desire, making the exhibition installation interact with people. As the viewer looks into the peephole, the viewer can peer into and uncover the workings of the desire machine

The tiny screen located on the right side, on which the viewer's eyes are being projected on the cicada nymphs,is being interpreted in real time. This symbolizes that the viewer of the exhibition remains a part of the factory made up of this huge desire machine.

Real cocoon are placed at the bottom! This greatly enriches the visual landscape of our installation. The collision between organic and mechanical elements with the screen creates a brilliant visual experience with visual hierarchy

#DESKTOP RESEARCH

#THINKING POINT

The family, as the cornerstone of social structure, is considered in Chinese ideology to place family interests above personal interests. However, this ideology has evolved over time, and it is this shift that has led to new problems in Chinese families.

#INSPARATION

#INTERVIEW

Growing up, my family’s finances were shrouded in secrecy. I was unaware of my parents’ jobs or income, as they remained vague on the subject. This secrecy caused me anxiety, despite their consistent support for my education and needs.

In the research, I interviewed many young children aged 20-25 and parents aged around 45, and invited them to share their family and growing experiences through interviews.

This paradox of economic uncertainty yet reliable support created a rift between us. We were close, but an invisible barrier was present. I’ve noticed this mix of intimacy and distance is common in Chinese families, and I’m interested in exploring this complex relationship dynamic influenced by Chinese family culture.

Children

I feel a sense of indebtedness to my parents.

(BEFORE) Traditional Chinese Familism

(Now) Neo-Familism (Descending Familism)

Revolving around the reverence for ancestors and the perpetuation of lineage.

The focus of family life, both spiritually and materially, has shifted from the ancestors to the youngest generation of children.

Individuals are expected to sacrifice their personal needs and desires for the greater good of the family.

The focus of family life, both spiritually and materially, has shifted from the ancestors to the youngest generation of children.

Elders and males typically possess more authority

A family’s success and happiness are often measured by material wealth.

The pursuit of an ideal life in modern Chinese society tends toward homogenization.

Parents

In contemporary Chinese society, I’ve noticed a pervasive contradiction and conflict: influenced by societal norms, the profound love and dedication parents have for their children inadvertently transform into a form of absence in their roles. This absence not only inflicts deep wounds on the children but also erects barriers within their hearts. Through my design work, I aspire to provoke deeper contemplation about this issue within society and awaken public awareness regarding the importance of close family relationships.

#CONCEPT Family members are bound by an invisible gravitational force.

Absence of emotional support and guidance and possible lack of encouragement from parents when facing challenges or difficulties

Communication Education Support

It’s hard to take care of children. I think sometimes my son doesn’t understand my dedication and love, but I can’t express it

I want my child to have a wonderful childhood free from anxiety about life’s hardships.

Companionship

My desire is to shield him from the darker and more complex aspects of adulthood.

Companionship

Support

Absence of companionship due to a variety of reasons

Absence of emotional support and guidance and possible lack of encouragement from parents when facing challenges or difficulties

Parents and children revolve around each other, mutually dependent yet finding it difficult to truly access the inner worlds of one another.

I feel out of sync with my parents.

My parents never discussed life with me, and after graduation, I realized that I lacked many essential life skills.

Getting into a top university is paramount for my child’s future success.

Project/ 3

Individual 2023

They don’t respect my thoughts and hobbies.

My parents spent too little time with me.

Only by earning more money can we ensure a better quality of life for our family.

Education

Communication

Parents are seldom involved in their children’s education; instead, there are schools that take care of it. At this time, when faced with what is not in the textbooks, the child does not have the appropriate knowledge

The importance of effective communication with children is overlooked.

Parents sometimes fail to listen to their children and children feel neglected or misunderstood.

Cosmos Loneliness and Independence

Tranquility and Peace

Children may feel lonely under the expectations of family and society. Yet, there is independence in exploring oneself and pursuing dreams amidst solitude.

Often faced with barriers, what one experiences is not conflict but calmness. It’s through this serenity that comfort and strength are sought.

Insignificance and Powerlessness One might feel insignificant and powerless within the vast expanse of society.

Uniqueness and Individuality Even when surrounded by the uniform expectations of family and society, children still maintain their own uniqueness and individuality.

#ARTIST RESEARCH

#GAME ITERATION ITERATION 1 Satellite Maneuvering and Gameplay in Orbit

ITERATION 2 Child as protagonist, building room scenes

ITERATION 3 (LATEST) Express the absence of children’s lonely parents through regular narrative

Players control a satellite orbiting around a planet, collecting items to advance a debate-driven storyline about Chinese family relationships.

The storyline revolves around “the teacher’s requirement for a signature on the report card.” The protagonist goes through anxiety, waiting for their parents to come home, presenting them with the report card, which ultimately leads to a family conflict erupting and the protagonist fleeing from home in this interactive novel.

Players step into the shoes of a child who is home alone, warming up meals, doing homework, and tackling household chores while facing various challenges. When difficulties arise, the only contact with parents is through phone calls; the child eagerly awaits their early return, yet the parents are consistently absent.

Challenges and Risks The game does not highlight the value of its medium; it lacks strong interactivity.

There is a possibility that the plot may not be understood or appreciated.

Outcome Players must hustle around the house by themselves. The absence of parents and repetitive music excellently convey a sense of loneliness and distinctly emphasize the theme of “parental absence.”

Chinese Parents “Chinese Parents” is a life simulation game, infused with distinctive elements of Chinese family dynamics. It vividly portrays the generational clashes and educational challenges prevalent in Chinese households. Employing a realistic style, the game resonates with players by bringing to life familiar struggles.

#PROCESS Tools: Bitsy,Aseprite

Issues and Risks The blend of 3D scenes with pixel art style fails to effectively depict the vastness of space, resulting in poor visual effects and weak recognition.

The game’s controls are complex, leading to a lack of interest from players who do not feel compelled to continue playing.

There is only a faint connection between the narrative and visuals.

#OUTCOME

In this game, players step into the shoes of “Xingxing,” a middle schooler grappling with the dual pressures of academia and familial expectations. The backdrop is a blend of the cosmic expanse and the intimate setting of his parents’ apartment, weaving together the tapestry of Xingxing’s world. The game artfully exposes the solitude he feels due to his parents’ absence.

Through a sequence of straightforward yet profound interactions, the game unfolds Xingxing’s emotional odyssey as he awaits his parents in the desolation of his home. Every conversation and mission delves into Xingxing’s psyche. Players are drawn into explorations of empty rooms, where fragmented storytelling triggers a cascade of emotional responses.

PLAY IN THE BROWSER https://jaosonqin.itch.io/xingxing

Music: floating by iam6teen Instructions: Use your ARROW or WASD to walk around and interact Playtime: ~5 to 10 mins

#Game Scene Certificates of Achievement: A familiar scene in many Chinese households is the display of the child’s certificates, a chronicle of achievements preserved from childhood to adulthood. Earning these certificates in one’s youth is often synonymous with receiving parental accolades.

Xingxing: “Xingxing” is a widely used Chinese nickname, literally meaning ‘star,’ signifying parents’ hopes for their child to shine brightly in their own sky.

Kitchen

Living Room

Xingxing's Room

Parents'Room Parents’ Desktop Computer: Xingxing, who is in junior high school, is not allowed to use a mobile phone. At home, he can only use the computer to communicate with his parents.

Family Portrait Hanging in the Room: Many families hang a family portrait or wedding photos at home. Sometimes, a world map is also posted in the child’s room.

Child’s Photo on Parents’ Desk: The child’s photo is placed in front of the parents’ desk.

Perfect OS

{RESEARCH}

{Table: Evolution and discipline}

{Language and Power: Controlling thought and Shaping Reality}

{INSPIRATION}

{Alienation and control}

Over-dependence on technology and its alienation from human nature

* In the Chinese context, a form broadly refers to a mode of visual communication, covering various forms of data organization and presentation methods, including but not limited to filling out forms, electronic spreadsheets, and data tables .

In both school and corporate environments, tables are a common and important tool. We often need to fill out various forms, which carry profound significance in modern society. Tables are not only an invention that improves productivity but also have the powerful ability to systematize and structure complex information. This capability has sparked my interest, prompting me to delve into the deeper meaning of tables.

History and development of the form The origin of tables dates back to ancient Egypt and Babylon, where they were used to record commercial and astronomical data, and in ancient China for land allocation. The development of electronic spreadsheets began in 1978 when Harvard student Daniel Bricklin created VisiCalc. Subsequently, more advanced spreadsheet software such as Excel emerged, making modern table tools more efficient. In recent years, it has supported multi-person collaboration and automatic data processing.

Overall, the efficiency of tables is constantly improving with richer forms and expressions.

Centralized power can control language In ‘1984’, George Orwell demonstrates how to control thought by limiting vocabulary and simplifying grammar through the description of ‘Newspeak’, a simplified language carefully designed by the ruling party, in order to consolidate the control of totalitarian regimes.tarian regimes.

Dongting QIN

Individual 2023

During the pandemic, my school requires students to fill out a daily health check form, recording personal health and activity information as a prerequisite for entering and leaving the campus. Although this practice has improved data collection efficiency, it has also become a new means of discipline. Similarly, many grassroots civil servants in China face a large number of form-filling tasks with different formats but repetitive content. The content of the forms is highly repetitive, but the format is slightly different; they have to spend a lot of time and energy dealing with these tedious administrative requirements.

In “Beholder”, players take on the role of apartment manager Carl Stein, who is required to monitor tenants and report suspicious behavior to the government, facing moral choices and survival challenges under an authoritarian regime. This reflects the complexity of personal morality and choice in such oppressive political environments, as well as the vulnerability of individuals in front of state power.

The McDonaldization of Society

Language forms affect thinking In Ted Chiang’s ‘Story of Your Life,’ the protagonist Louise gains the ability to foresee the future after learning Heptapod language. The novel demonstrates how language shapes our understanding of the world, that is, the theory that linguistic forms influence thinking and worldview.

{Concept}

Beholder

In Capital, Marx criticized the capitalist mode of production, especially the exploitation of labor force and the infinite pursuit of efficiency in the production process. The capitalist mode of production separates workers from the products of their labor, leading to self-alienation and loss of control over their own labor and life.

Form as a discipline tool

I attempt to construct a hypothesis: under the endless greed for efficiency by humans, what kind of changes will occur in society? My intention is to reveal the profound impact of technology and capitalism on modern life, as well as social issues under this societal structure, thereby stimulating public reflection on personal contributions towards social change.

In the "Fifteen Million Merits" episode of "Black Mirror", most people are forced to pedal bicycles in a closed environment to earn virtual currency. This mechanical way of labor and screenfilled daily life demonstrate how society, through technology and media control, transforms individuals into anonymous cogs in the system. Society is extremely dependent on technology, so much so that human labor seems to be just a means to keep the technological system running.

Marx's Capital

Project/ 4

These works, theories, and phenomena combined have sparked my conception of a dystopian society where capitalism is highly developed, leading to the disappearance of human subjectivity. It presents a society that is oligarchic and maximized for efficiency but overlooks human creativity and individuality.

George Ritzer points out that society is increasingly adopting the characteristics of the fast food industry, such as efficiency, calculability, predictability, and control. This trend may also lead to cultural homogenization, loss of humanization, and weakening of creativity.

The average number of hours worked per week in China continues to grow

In November 2023, Chinese domestic employees worked an average of 48.9 hours per week, a 20-year high.

Possible Future:

Human efficiency has reached a new peak, ushering in a new era

Plausible Future：

A new type of polity was born, accelerating efficiency gains through more efficient legal and political institutions

Probable Future:

More efficient management methods, new technologies were invented. People regard these as religious worship.

The efficiency of society continues to increase.

What IF...

Spreadsheet as a new language and system Meanwhile Technology shapes the grid into new forms

The form became an authoritarian tool

Tables as a language construct a new logic of thinking PROJECT 4

{Persona} Jack 25 MALE SHANGHAI EMPLOYEE SINGLE I am passionate about the future and technology, and the world driven by data and efficiency is becoming more efficient. I believe that under the development and leadership of tech companies, humanity will move towards a new stage.

Efficiency is everything, efficient work can make my life more valuable.

Background I received a good education, completing courses from elementary school to university in public schools.

I am proficient in mastering new technologies, so I got a job at a technology company. My main job is to help artificial intelligence learn and improve machine operating efficiency.

GOAL Continuously optimize your own life and work through technology and data. Constantly improve personal and work efficiency to enhance job position and social status.

Minimize as much as possible the instability that emotions bring to work efficiency.

Dongting QIN

Perfect OS {Outcome}

Frustrations Sometimes I can’t compete with human nature and desires, which affects my efficiency.

When the fanaticism for productivity reaches its extreme, an operating system named Perfect OS is born. This is not just a piece of software, it's a concrete manifestation of our ultimate pursuit of work efficiency. PerfectOS maximizes everyone's work efficiency. Graphs serve as a new language, replacing traditional communication methods.

PerfectOS has abandoned the traditional interactive interface and replaced it with an extremely efficient layout.

Each user's work efficiency is plotted on a curve; this isn't just a reflection but also a silent drive. Every minute of the user is optimized, calculated and reallocated to achieve 'perfect efficiency'.

PROJECT 4

{daily rountine} {Get to work}

In order to create a happy working environment, Perfect OS has introduced a groundbreaking smile detection feature. Just show your smile to the screen, and it can prove that you are working in a stress-free, fully engaged environment. Let your smile be the best proof of your love for efficiency and satisfaction with work.

{Working process} After entering the work, your work life will be precisely planned and controlled.

Perfect OS will assign you the most suitable tasks and ensure that you strictly follow this preset path. There is no need to worry about planning or decision-making.

Your tasks will automatically appear on your timeline at the appropriate time, ensuring that you always stay on a highly efficient track.

The morning welcome screen, start working after engraving tattoos with a tattoo machine.

TATTOOING MACHINE In order to keep the work in mind, the tattoo machine Perfect OS will tattoo the work goals into your skin in the morning.

After completing the work, you can choose to wash away the traces. It is recommended that you keep these marks as evidence of your work achievements.

In the world of Perfect OS, your work efficiency is plotted in real time into a curve, displayed at the center of the screen.

Please remember, your goal is to maintain this curve as a perfect straight line because it represents the optimization of your efficiency. Any fluctuations, whether caused by emotional changes or unexpected disturbances, will cause bends in the curve and may trigger system warnings.

When you're done, you just need to click on the checkbox at the top left. The window will be closed

Dongting QIN

HEADWEAR EFFICIENCY MONITORING DEVICE If you need to leave your desk during work hours, you'll be lucky enough to wear our head-mounted efficiency monitor, a stylish technological innovation that ensures maximum productivity even when you're on the move.

In the process of work, leadership will be able to see your efforts and productivity changes in real time, effort will become visible, measurable glory PROJECT 4

PEST ANALYSIS Social Factors Political Factors The introduction of the ‘Healthy Aging Plan’ indicates that the government has started to pay attention to the mental health of the elderly.

In bustling urban areas, many elderly individuals move from the countryside to be closer to their children, often feeling isolated due to language, culture, and social differences. To combat this, we launched the Inclusive Platform for Migrant Seniors to help them integrate into city life.

QUESTION

In 2021, the Chinese government proposed to ‘improve a preventive healthcare service system that equally emphasizes physical and mental health, enhance basic public health services to promote elderly people’s health, perfect preventive healthcare service systems for seniors, carry out psychological care services for older adults, and advance integration of physical education and hygiene.

Guangzhou accelerates plans for elderly migration into cities Guangzhou city proposes flexible human-centered household registration migration policies and gradually adjusts standards for family reunion-type personnel moving in.

SOCIAL PHENOMENOE Due to family or personal needs, many elderly people leave the familiar countryside and venture into unfamiliar urban areas in order to be closer to their children.

These elderly people are referred to as migrating elders.

MY GRANDMOTHER

Solve The Alienation Between Migrating Elders & The Community

Project/ 5 Dongting QIN

Individual 2023

My grandmother, a lifelong resident of Ningbo’s countryside, has children living in Hangzhou. For caregiving and to address the challenges of living alone at her age, we decided to move her to Hangzhou. Yet, despite improved living conditions, she often experiences loneliness, anxiety, and a lack of security there.

New Generation of Women Pursuing Career Development Under traditional gender role concepts, the care of infants and young children is mainly undertaken by women. However, with social progress and improved education levels, this role is changing. Some families rely on the elderly to take care of infants and young children for career development.

Increase in Migrating Elderly Population According to the “China Floating Population Development Report 2016” by China’s National Health Commission, China’s floating elderly population reached 18 million in 2016, accounting for 7.2% of the total floating population. Among them, nearly 70% of the elderly migrated to cities with their children; 43% moved for the purpose of taking care of younger generations; while 25% migrated for family reunions and retirement.

Traditional Concept Of Grandparenting Since the beginning of the 21st century, “Descending Familism”, where family resources are primarily tilted towards children has become popular in China. The common practice of grandparents providing care has become a moral obligation. Many older people choose to live with their children which not only provides familial support and caregiving but also allows them to look after their grandchildren fulfilling obligations related to lineage continuity while strengthening emotional ties within families.

Economy Factors Economic growth continues, and the pension standard increases year by year In 2022, the basic pension for retirees increased for the 18th consecutive year. Economic development has brought better living conditions and material security for the elderly.

PROJECT 5

SCHEDULE GET UP

BUY FOOD AT THE MARKET

MAKE BREAKFAST

WATCH TV

ACTIONS

Wake up naturally

Buy the right food for the day's cooking

Make or buy a simple breakfast for the family. Talk about everyday things

Amuse oneself by watching TV programs

PROBLEM

TOUCHPOINT

OPPORTUNITIES

Quality of sleep, whether you get enough sleep Whether the work and rest time is regular Whether it can keep healthy

The elderly live with their children in the city, and their daily life may be disturbed.

The urban living space is small, and the elderly may not adapt to the limited range of activities in the room The pace of life in the city is not adapted

In the layout of the room in advance to prepare for the elderly Minimize the impact on the sleep of the elderly

Whether the price of the vegetable market is reasonable Whether the vegetable market can find the required materials The stall owner may not understand the dialect of the elderly The degree of familiarity and trust between the stall owner and the elderly Differences in service and payment methods in vegetable farms The difference of opening hours of vegetable farms in urban and rural areas

Different areas offer different kinds of goods Prices on urban vegetable farms may be relatively high Dialect communication may be problematic The old man can establish friendship with the stall owner of the vegetable market Urban vegetable farms offer different services The opening hours of the morning vegetable market may be later than in the countryside, and the sampling time is later

Differences in family tastes and food cultures Breakfast ingredients may vary

For a lot of young urban people, many people may not choose to eat breakfast at home Many people tend to buy ready-made breakfast instead of making it in the morning

Cultural differences in different regions lead to differences in TV content

Optimize the market service, Provide information consultation about the market for the elderly.

FIELD INVESTIGATION

PERSONA "Sometimes I want to go back. I think of the people in my hometown and the flowers and plants in my hometown yard."

Reasons for the Lack of Security 1. Difficulty in establishing new social circles, leading to feelings of loneliness.

2. Dependence on children for living and lack of self-worth.

3. Homesickness and social identity recognition.

4. Dialect leads to language barrier issues.

5. Large city scale, not adapting to the environment.

6. Family atmosphere and conflicts.

7. Changes in lifestyle habits, not adapting to urban life pace.

8. Economic pressure and cost of living.

Elderly people who have moved to the city generally have better material conditions.

Jiang

Elderly people generally hope to enrich their life activities. Some elderly people’s entire lives revolve around taking care of the third generation, which can feel oppressive.

Goals I hope to contribute to the family, take good care of my grandchildren.

To lighten the burden on my family.

I hope that living in a big city can enjoy better material conditions, and have a more balanced nutrition every day.

I hope to see my family members every day, and be closer to them.

Frustrations Feeling extremely insecure in unfamiliar environments Unfamiliar with the city’s neighborhoods, modes of transportation, and dialects In the neighborhood where I live, there are no familiar friends, it is hard to find like-minded friends The lifestyle and schedule living with family members are difficult to adapt to There is financial pressure from a pension that is low compared to higher consumption levels, unable to spend freely Insufficient energy sometimes leads to health problems, which can bring great self-pressure

Personality Traits Migrating Elderly

Local TV programs may not be available on your TV at home Smart TVS are widely used in cities and may operate differently

Hometown Attachment Moved from the countryside of Ningbo to live in the city of Hangzhou / 58 years old / Retired primary school teacher

This usually refers to the deep affection and constant longing for one's birthplace or place of growth, typically including a profound nostalgia for the local natural environment, cultural traditions, community members, and personal experiences.

Dialect Barrier

PLAY WITH CHILDREN

GO TO THE SUPERMARKET

CHAT WITH ELDERLY PEOPLE TAKE THE KIDS OUT FOR A WALK Dongting QIN

Play with the kids or help with homework

Go to the supermarket to buy daily necessities, buy snacks for children

Socialize and have activities with other seniors

Take the kids for a walk around the neighborhood

Old people don't know how to teach children There is a big generation gap between old people and children

Supermarkets may be less accessible, and public transportation may be relatively complicated for the elderly population older people may not be aware of their children’s shopping needs.

Many supermarkets have undergone digital reforms, with unmanned cash registers and digital payments that are not convenient for older people to shop in

There are great cultural differences among old people In modern culture, the relationship between neighbors is very weak There may be obstacles to making friends in old age

Old people don't know the way Old people have limited energy

How to let the elderly learn the experience and methods of educating children

The elderly may not be clear about the child's shopping needs, and communication can be a problem Old people are not good at using new technology

Increase local TV programming and optimize the experience of smart TVS for elderly users

Guide the elderly to educate the children through training

Reasons for Moving to the City 1. Taking care of the third generation 63.3% 2. Personal old age needs care 14% 3. Like high-quality city life 9.9% 4. Taking care of children 9.3%

"Eating well, living and eating in Hangzhou has been better taken care of, and it is very close to the hospital, and it is very convenient to walk a few steps to meet any problems."

Most elderly people have pensions, ensuring their living conditions.

Difficulty in dialect communication, inability to speak Mandarin. This leads to a narrow social range and limited social activities.

I enjoy accompanying my children and grandchildren in the big city, doing everything I can to help them. I participate in some community activities to enrich my life. The digital lifestyle of the big city is sometimes a challenge, but I am willing to learn in order to better integrate into this rapidly developing world.

Background "We come from the countryside, and there is not much income, and their income is also average with the children."

We as old people can help them little by little

Old people have no familiar friends, no opportunity to take the initiative to meet new friends

The elderly have limited energy, narrow range of activities, and weak sense of security

Organize community activities to promote mutual understanding among older persons

"The neighbors don't understand me and I don't have any friends here."

Jiang is a man who used to live in the countryside. After his retirement, due to the birth of his granddaughter, his children found it difficult to balance their work and raising their daughter, and since he was retired and in good health, he traveled to Hangzhou to live with his children and help raise his granddaughter. But when he came to live in a big city, the differences between the cities brought Jiang many problems, including the lack of security, which particularly affects the quality of life!

Lack of Self-Worth

The legal retirement age in China is 60 for men and 55 for women. After retirement, many elderly people face challenges in realizing their self-worth and societal value due to loss of their work roles.

Changes in Living Environment and Habits

After migrating from rural areas to big cities, adapting to life in large cities is a challenge. Such changes may lead to isolation and maladjustment, thereby affecting mental health and quality of life.

Proficiency in Using Smartphones

Being proficient at using smartphones involves engaging with them for social entertainment as well as shopping on a daily basis.

Preferred Channels Word of mouth, friends recommend TV advertisement Newspaper advertisement Offline billboard PROJECT 5

Analysis of Living Sites

Value Proposition Canvas Migrant Elders

Location

Wet Market

Qingshan Lake Subdistrict, Hangzhou

High Density of elderly residents

140,000

Permanent Resident Population

Large

Migrant Population

Square

28.8%

Features

of the population over the age of 60

Necessity of Life:

et Wet Mark

Showcasing Hometown Culture:

#C83931

Second-level Aggregation

ool

ch Primary S

Designs elderly people's daily routes to create opportunities for "casual encounters," fostering social interaction.

ket r a m r e p u S

Hospital

Third-level Aggregation Public places like wet markets act as spontaneous gathering spots for the elderly, becoming the most critical social nodes Dongting QIN

The market is a place that the elderly must visit and it's where relocated seniors start to familiarize themselves with the neighborhood and understand the city.

ten r a g r e d n i K

Markets sell goods rich in local characteristics, becoming places where cultures, dialects, and lifestyles from different regions intersect and merge.

Social Center As a hub for community life and cultural exchange, markets are like modern versions of ancient Greek markets. They provide a public space for shopping, communication, and sharing which helps establish deep community connections.

Gains

Pains

- Easily buy the food you need - Opportunities to participate in community activities, find a sense of self-worth, reduce loneliness, and enrich their free time - To create communication and interaction with neighbors and build friendships.

- Learn about the culture of the city

- Living with children, not finding self-worth in daily life, life feels boring.

- Cultural differences and dialect differences lead to poor communication - Feeling unfamiliar with the community, city geographical location, afraid to travel alone - Feeling strange and insecure about the city

Customer Jobs - Find familiar ingredients and complete the purchase. Used for cooking - Integrate into local culture, establish connections with community and neighbors - Participate in activities, expand the range of activities in space, learn and experience local culture

Wet Market Gain Creators

- The square is in a superior geographical location, making grocery shopping more convenient - Purchasing groceries is easy, communication is smooth, the purchasing process is simple, and there are a variety of food types to meet the needs of people from different cultural backgrounds - Fulfilling the needs of elderly people on social and psychological levels, increasing their integration into society - Providing more public space for the elderly

Pain Relievers

- Alleviate homesickness through ingredients from hometown or similar to those in the hometown - Establish a starting point for the elderly to understand city-specific culture through local specialty food - Stall owners from different regions help alleviate language communication barriers - Regularly organize activities to help the elderly integrate into the community

Products and Services - Provide a community gathering activity center - Organize cultural experience activities, and cooperate with relevant demand parties PROJECT 5

SERVICE BLUEPRINT Migrating Elders

Provision of Services

STALLHOLDER

Regular activities for a rich life Selling or buying goods, earning profits Building friendships with neighbors, maintaining long-term contact Understanding local culture, signing up for city events Re-employment opportunities for the elderly

CUSTOMER

Service Target

Venue

CUSTOMER ACTIONS

FRONTSTAGE ACTIONS

STAFF

BACKSTAGE ACTIONS

SUPPORT SERVICE Dongting QIN

Communication platform Seats and stall carts

Market Entrance

Market passage

Enter the food market entrance, see the guide and activity information introduction and promotion

Wandering along the aisle, looking for ingredients Seeing familiar foodstuffs, this evokes the old man's memories of buying and cooking vegetables in his hometown.

Using a mobile app to find needed items

Saw different products, which aroused curiosity, and asked the stall owner for product information Bargaining between the stall owner and consumers Communication between the stall owner and consumers to establish emotional connections Participating in activities organized by the activity center, such as lectures etc.

Contact staff training Stock up, Lease facilities, Set up stalls Maintain product information and prices in the APP

The stall owner greets the customers and introduces the information of the origin and price of the goods Use mobile APP to meet customers

Vendors take the initiative to introduce customers to the flavors, cultural backgrounds and cooking/eating styles of local specialties Bargaining between vendors and consumers Communication between stallholders and consumers to build emotional connections Accepting bargaining requests from customers in the app to create a bond with them.

Guide customers into the square through manual or guided guidance Site layout, installation of booth guidance and guidance Stall owner recruitment and training

Customer service coordinates conflicts between consumers and stall owners Solve consumer problems and poor information Coordinate information communication between stall owners and managers The responsible health personnel shall manage the hygienic environment of the site The managers supervise the activities of the merchants in setting up stalls

Delineate reasonable stall zoning arrangements and walking routes Specify the types of dishes that different stalls can operate, and delineate their operating areas and ranges Display and organize dishes, show price information and product introductions Contact the property management of the venue

Site cleaning Supply of goods, facility placement, transportation and manufacturing Bring in external merchants (local specialties) Local cultural and tourism partners, regularly cooperate with other companies, venues and other organizations to organize and plan related activities

On-site advertising elements

Activity itinerary planning (Second space)

Learn about recent community events at the event center Sign up to be a "stall owner Sign up for events on the APP

Participate in activities with other elderly people, learn about the local culture, and travel to different Spaces in the city

Staff organize and carry out cultural experience activities Customer service provides consultation services

The staff introduces the details of the activities to the elderly customers, provides on-site experience activities, provides registration and charges

Staff contact third parties to set up events Staff provide advice on activities Staff implement the event content to ensure the experience and safety of the event

Open customer discount mechanism Create communication space and facilities, prepare rest areas in advance Recruit partners or organize planned events

Design and layout of advertising elements on site Process registration and payment information Integrate activity content and prepare activity materials Prepare for the experience

Event planning and supervision, Liaise with partners and work together to implement event details Site and event planning

Facility rental for the event

PROJECT 5

DISPLAY

VENDOR CART

Local Cultural Food/ Cooked Food Cart

Vegetable and Fruit Truck

BRANDING Logo

Connect with older people in your community Share shopping experiences and cooking tips in the chat

APP This APP was initially designed based on profound insights into the relocated elderly and offline markets. It maps offline behaviors to mobile applications, while ensuring easy operation suitable for the elderly. The APP has created three core functions: channels, markets, and activities, which correspond to the main services of market activities.

Dongting QIN

When the selection is complete, you can bargain with the stall owner, interact with them and obtain regular customer discounts.

Solgan Sign up in advance to be a stall owner or customer in the APP

PROJECT 5

Other Work 996

3 4

996

1 2

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