It’s so hard to put words on it; an exploratory study on mediation of ambience

Abstract: Retrieving information regarding ambience is difficult since it’s often perceived at a physical location and cannot be easily mediated. This study aimed to explore how ambience at a restaurant or bar can be mediated via a smartphone app. The study was based on the conversation about the relationship of space and place in HCI and CSCW. Based on the research question “What means of mediation are best suited for mediating ambience at a restaurant via a smartphone app?”, a research through design approach was adopted to develop a mockup that favored browsing. The mockup was used as a way to test how different means of mediation mediated ambience. An evaluation was held where users were asked to think aloud when given tasks to perform, then complete an experience questionnaire. Finally, a semi structured debriefing was held. Photos and text-based reviews were the best means of mediation to mediate ambience at restaurants.