Designing for Resonance: A Value Sensitive Design Approach to Enhancing User Experience on Online Dating Platforms
Author
Haraszti, Gréta Petra
Term
4. term
Education
Publication year
2023
Pages
47
Abstract
This thesis examines how Value Sensitive Design can improve user experience on online dating platforms by fostering more meaningful, resonant connections while sustaining user engagement. Against the backdrop of rapid growth in online dating and the centrality of recommender algorithms, the study identifies experiential and ethical challenges such as superficiality, choice overload, user homogenization, opaque black-box mechanisms, and captivation tactics. Theoretically, it operationalizes Hartmut Rosa’s concept of resonance and integrates it within Ibo van de Poel’s values hierarchy to better align usability with ethically salient values. Methodologically, a techno-anthropological VSD approach is used, combining literature and conceptual work with eight value-oriented semi-structured interviews. The data are thematically analyzed and translated through the values hierarchy into norms and design requirements. The outcome is a set of value-oriented design directions that inscribe resonance into platform design and can potentially enhance user experience and support deeper interactions. As specific solutions are not implemented or tested here, the thesis points to future work on prototyping and empirical evaluation within real-world systems.
Denne afhandling undersøger, hvordan værdifølsomt design kan forbedre brugeroplevelsen på online datingplatforme ved at fremme mere meningsfulde og resonante forbindelser, samtidig med at brugernes fortsatte engagement understøttes. Med udgangspunkt i den markante vækst i online dating og den centrale rolle, som anbefalingsalgoritmer spiller, identificerer arbejdet oplevelses- og etikrelaterede udfordringer som overfladiskhed, valgoverbelastning, homogenisering af brugere, uigennemsigtige “black box”-mekanismer og fastholdelsesstrategier. Teoretisk operationaliseres Hartmut Rosas resonansbegreb og integreres i Ibo van de Poels værdihierarki for at knytte brugervenlighed til etisk betydningsfulde værdier. Metodisk anvendes en techno-antropologisk, værdifølsom design-tilgang med litteratur- og begrebsarbejde samt otte værdiorienterede semistrukturerede interviews. Data analyseres tematisk og omsættes i værdihierarkiet til normer og designkrav. Resultatet er et sæt værdiorienterede designretninger, der kan indskrive resonans i platformenes design og potentielt løfte brugeroplevelsen og understøtte dybere interaktioner. Da specifikke løsninger ikke afprøves i praksis her, peger afhandlingen på fremtidigt arbejde med implementering og evaluering af forslagene i virkelige systemer.
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