Anaid Gomez Ortigoza
David Overholt

Pinformation

Pinning a poster creates magic: an information system that requires no learning curve and does not frustrate or annoy the user.

http://www.davidoverholt.com/pinformation/

Classes
Introduction to Computational Media - Wed (O'Sullivan),Introduction to Physical Computing - Wed (Shakar),Introduction to Physical Computing - Wed PM (Igoe)


Pinning a poster creates magic: an information system that requires no learning curve and does not frustrate or annoy the user. It does one simple thing very well, display information about a particular image when it is "pinned".
Pinformation is a transparent information system that feels approachable and easy to use. It does not intimidate the user thanks to a transparent use of technology.
Transparency is key when it comes to technology. Ease of use and the appropriate functions determine if a computer is user (and consumer) friendly or not. An application can make or break just from the interface feel.

Background
All kinds of sensors and switches (FSR, IR, Qprox, interactive whiteboards, etc) that can confirm the user wants to see information on a particular object. Transparency of the technology and price points became very important.

Audience
Those that may be intimidated by more "techy" information visualizations, as there is no learning curve and the technology is transparent.

User Scenario
A poster, any poster with different objects on it can become an interface by adding magnetic sensors in the back and giving the user a magnet that will pin the image (a butterfly in this case) that identifies the object that the user is interested in and gives him/her information on it in an adjoining display.
Once the user pins the butterfly, the software brings up relevant and very well presented information about it.

Implementation
A single poster (20'' x 30'') with images (butterflies) connects to a digital monitor to give on demand information about a selected image. Together they create a user interface easier to use than a mouse which feels like magic to the user.
An array of open REED magnetic switches trigger the software when one switch changes state by placing a pin through an image into cork board.

Conclusion
Resolution, transparency, ease of use and organization are key.