Can our digital products enable choice and autonomy?
Technology can have different impacts depending on the context and level at which it is used.
Calvo et al. (2014) emphasized the need for specificity in identifying the levels at which need satisfaction can occur, such as through autonomy-support, which may refer to customization of software or the extent to which self-driving cars increase autonomy for vision-impaired individuals. Ryan et al (2018)
To better design interventions that meet individuals' needs, it is helpful to identify the specific spheres of experience in which a technology impacts well-being.
Four such spheres Ryan et al (2018) think are important are:
(1) interacting with the technology via its interface (2) engaging with technology-enabled tasks (3) the overarching technology-supported behavior (4) a user's overall life
For example, a user may feel empowered by customizing the interface (sphere 1), engage through technology-enabled tasks (sphere 2), improve their physical health through technology-supported behaviors (sphere 3), and ultimately enhance their quality of life (sphere 4).
Recognizing these different spheres of impact can inform the development of technology that better supports users' needs and improves their overall experience, leading to positive outcomes in terms of health, satisfaction, and quality of life.
As the authors write
"Acknowledgment of these different spheres of experience is essential if we are to avoid creating technologies that are need-satisfying at one level but need-frustrating at another (i.e., addictive)"
Do you include this ecosystem when designing, and think about the ultimate outcome?
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Figure 1 credit: (Ryan et al 2018)