AscoltaMe

Abstract

This pictorial describes the process and rationale behind the design features of AscoltaMe (in Italian, "listen to me"). This is a computational object imbued with the intent to help families overcome the emotional barriers they may experience during a disruptive life event, as they attempt to maintain healthy communication. With a focus on the object's material qualities and temporal form, the pictorial introduces and visually outlines tactfulness as the fundamental characteristic that enables objects designed for sensitive settings to be intentful in ways that are appropriate and sensitive.