OPEN MINDkit is a speculative, fictional product designed to critique attention-driven social media models and to raise awareness about their impact on our well-being.
OPEN MINDkit is a diagnostic rapid test device for detecting, preventing, and managing digital-related dysfunctions and threats.
It is an open-source technology developed by a group of tech activists, enthusiasts, and nerds who believe in free, open, and accessible technology for the people.
YEAR AND LOCATION
2022
Kolding, Denmark
CLIENT
Designskolen
DESIGN AREA
Digital and Phisical Product Design
Speculative Design
MY ROLE
Physical Prototype
Digital App
Visual Identity
Copywriting
What is this project about?
Social media platforms are built on business models that thrive on commodifying the attention of billions of people. A consequence of such operating models is that they end up fuelling addiction, social comparison, and the spread of misinformation.
But what if social media didn't have to be like that? What if social media were designed to promote well-being, mutual understanding, and personal improvement? Can technology be a tool for positive social change?
This project uses a speculative design artifact – the OPEN MINDkit – to investigate the consequences of a "what if" scenario where a group of internet activists fight back against social media platforms to help people overcome peoples' problematic relationships with digital technologies.
A stand exhibiting the OPEN MINDkit at the Playing with futures exhibition at the Designskolen, Kolding.
