Archive for November 11th, 2011

I am thinking it may be possible (and fun) to reproduce the iPod prototype unveiling experience described in Chapter 30 of “Steve Jobs” by Walter Isaacson. Fadell had designed 3 prototype models whose purpose was for Steve Jobs to inspect (for look and feel, as well as features). Fadell put what he considered the top candidate under a bowl (hidden from view). The presentation started with a layout of the components and then assembling them to show the various ways they could or would go together.

At this point, the book does mention Lego blocks which is something that has previously been used in the YCISL workshop.

The story continues with the unveiling of the #2 and #3 prototype models. Since the actual models were carved from styrofoam, there wasn’t any operational functionality (ie, no “click and feel”) but the creative concept could be considered. In fact, it was probably critical to the iPod’s success that engineering was not considered at this stage. There was a little bit of brainstorming with what-if? thinking as they considered modifications to the models. When the #1 prototype model was un-hidden [important so that it would not attract too much early attention], it seemed that it addressed the creative energy that they had experienced just moments before, and there was instantaneous agreement about the direction to take.

We could do this as a YCISL exercise. Students could build a series of optional base models [selected from the sandboxing phase] and build models using Lego pieces. The exercise would then involve prototyping for look and feel, and the packaged feature set. We would then need one group of students to present their prototypes and another group to be the audience. We would do the what-if? so presenters and presentees have their views in the open. Then the members of the audience would select the best candidate. We could then have a discussion about the presentation, the chosen prototype and whether they felt they could move forward or had to trace back.

This is a straightforward exercise to initiate a short and accessible list of words that one can use in writing. In writing proposals, essays, college essays, etc., one needs to show depth in wording to produce a positive impression (so this most important when making a first impression). The basic idea is that some words more accurately define an action or emotion, and that the reader needs this clarity to empathize with the meaning.

At one end, when “bland” words are chosen, the reader may become disinterested…

Instead of “said”, one could use (where appropriate) “argued”, “pleaded” , “denied” or “explained.” Attaching an adjective would also greatly expand the impact of carefully chosen words. For example, “pleaded vehemently” which creates a scene/action readily imagined.

The words that we hope to include are those that engage/stimulate interest and emotion (eg, hope, sympathy, happiness, beneficial), even empathy. They can also affect the feeling of time and place. We would aim to influence, persuade and take control.

Unfortunately, at the other extreme is the frequent use of words not in the average person’s vocabulary (this harms momentum and perhaps interest).

Now for the exercise – some  starting prompts:

1. Imagine your favorite pastime – how would you describe it?
2. What word best describes your hero?
3. What word best describes the most exciting/engaging part of your favorite movie?
4. How does your favorite television commercial make you feel?
5. What kind of books do you like to read?
6. Imagine that you are dancing. How would you describe it?
7. What word would you use to describe a pile of work in front you?
8. What word would you use to describe something very important?

Some of my favorite words:

Positivity
1. efficacious – can be used to describe people, ideas, work and many other things.
2. dichotomy – can be used to describe relationship of ideas; especially useful when debating two sides of an issue.
3. convergence – denotes movement of both tangible (technologies) and intangible (ideas) objects.
4. motivate – can be used to demonstrate an effort to change or a change agent which lends to revealing something new (always exciting to discover something new!)
5. inspiration – can be used to introduce a high-level factor and build a connection to/association with something already highly regarded or promising.
Other candidates: versatile, commendable, amicable, compelling

Negativity
1. ferocious –  example of word that conjures thankful feeling of not being in the same situation; describes a personal state (eg, fever) or a stressor (hurricane).
2.  fallacy – expresses a strong opinion and position; sets expectation of forthcoming proof/evidence/support.
3. unrelenting – denotes length of time of a stressor in which a subject can go through one or more significant phases/changes such as in mood.
4. tension – if used properly, the reader will start to feel tense in a physical reaction/manner; builds empathy.
5. perfunctory – can be used to influence the reader that something is not worth thinking of in detail; comes across as robotic/programmed or void of emotion.
Other candidates: inconsequential, dimunitive, impediment