Ignite talk. Ever wonder what archaeology can contribute to UX? Now you know!

1. USER EXPERIENCE

2. ARCHAEOLOGY

3. Archaeology is:
The study of how PAST people interact with their (PHYSICAL) environment,
through an examination of artifacts
Human Computer Interaction is:
The study of how PRESENT people interact with their (DIGITAL) environment,
through an examination of artifacts

4. What can archaeology
(and anthropology)
contribute to UX?

5. 1. You don’t see the complete picture.

6. 1. You don’t see the complete picture.

7. So what does this mean?
Use multiple methods.
Be comfortable with the incomplete picture.
Trust your judgment to fill in the gaps. We are
professionals!

8. 2. Context is Paramount

9. 2. Context is Paramount

10. So what does this mean?
Never forget the context of the experience
Try and prepare for new contexts
Anticipate patterns of use

11. 3. By observing something, you change it

12. 3. By observing something, you change it

13. So what does this mean?
Be aware of the differences between ‘real life’
and the testing environment
Minimize disruptive technologies and settings
Try to mimic ‘real life’ whenever possible

14. 4. What you see in an instant was created
over time

15. 4. What you see in an instant was created
over time

16. So what does this mean?
Understand the purpose and function of legacy
components
The context of creation is important, but does
not overshadow the context of use
‘View in an instant’ is a powerful tool

17. 5. Iteration is messy, but important.

18. 5. Iteration is messy, but important.

19. So what does this mean?
Embrace it!
Be comfortable with the madness.
Nothing exists within a vacuum. Something
came earlier. Something will come after.

20. 6. Remember to have fun!
Archaeology can be dirty, exhausting, and
frustrating (UX as well sometimes)
Working with a good group of people can make
it so much easier
Hold on to the big victories and ‘a-ha’ moments