Adam Greenfield talk on Everyware Computing

Tonight, I'm in San Francisco attending the talk by Adam Greenfield who is the author of the book Everyware, having to do with ubiquitous computing. Mark Weiser coined the term ubiquitous computing. Since Weiser, other terms have come into play, like pervasive computing. But Adam provides another term which perhaps is easier to understand and that technology agnostic individuals can understand. That is the term Everyware, where computing is everywhere. It's not a technical term per se, but it does convey the message I think. There's lots of people in the audience. The book is not entirely detailed, but provides a high level overview of ubiquitous computing.

Adam has these 5 principles of ubiquitous systems design.

Principle 1: Ubiquitous systems should have a default mode to protect safety

Principle 2: Ubiquitous systems should be self-disclosing. There is a role for developer, user experience consultant, graphic designers. Ubiquitous systems must contain provisions for immediate and transparent querying of their ownership, use, capabilities, etc.

Principle 3: Be conservative of face. Ubiquitous systems must not unnecessarily embarrass, humiliate or shame their users. Our current technical systems expose us to shame and embarrass us.

Principle 4: Ubiquitous systems should be conservative of time. They should not have to do unnecessarily make it more difficult to use.

Principle 5: Ubiquitous systems must be deniable. Users should have the right to opt out, simply say no to the system. There are some moments in our lives where things are ok, and that information processing should not disturb when things are going ok. There will be an enormous amount of good in ubiquitous systems.

One of the questions from the audience had to do with that users should own their data and Adam agreed with that. China, Japan and Asia may have more ubiquitous cultures than other countries. The whole underlying theme is that users need to be in control of their environments and opt out of the technology if they choose to do so. Culture plays a big role in the adoption of ubiquitous computing technology.

I met with Adam afterwards where I asked him several questions about ubiquitous computing. I recorded his answers in this podcast. Here's also a podcast about me and 2 other interns who drove to San Francisco for the Adam Greenfield talk.

And here is a picture of me with Adam Greenfield.