Reflecting on everyware, the era of ubiquitous computing

Joe Lamantia, experience architect and strategist at MediaCatalyst, has recently been writing a column for UXmatters. Entitled “Everyware – designing for the ubiquitous experience,” the series aims to explore user experience and design in the era of ubiquitous computing.

First fictions and the parable of the palace
November 2008
An overview of everyware’s roots in early depictions of ubiquitous computing by Mark Weiser and others, a consideration of the critical role of user experience in the coming world of everyware, and a description of some of the challenges we face in designing everyware / lifeware user experiences.

A near-term vision for everyware: synthetic serendipity
March 2009
A look forward from the present day, using stories by well-known science fiction authors as the source for vision or concept scenarios that describe some possible experiences of living and working with everyware.

Designing post-humanity: everyware in the far future
May 2009
Looking further afield is also important. Our reactions to more speculative and exploratory fictions affect our decisions about the appropriate reach and scope of design in the future. The conversations designers have about such fictions help us solidify both what and how we will design for the coming world of everyware. As designers, the decisions we make today will help decide what humanity is to be tomorrow.