Web Directions Next 2024, at the amazing Frank Gehry designed Dr Chau Chak Wing UTS facility, explored the future of product, design, and strategy, with a particular focus on the intersection of technology, society, and the environment. Speakers tackled diverse topics like the design of institutions, life-centered design, AI’s impact on UX, and the future of social networks.
Key Themes
1. Beyond Human-Centered Design:
Steve Baty and Martin Tomitsch advocated for life-centered design, which integrates environmental and ethical values into the design process.
They exposed the limitations of user-centered design, highlighting the need to consider a broader range of stakeholders, including the environment and ethical considerations.
"Life centred design seeks responsible innovation, adding environmental & ethical values to the existing model of user-centred design. It moves humans out of the centre, to include all forms of life."
2. The Role of AI in Design and Experience:
Josh Clark introduced the concept of “Sentient Design” (and the “Sentient Triangle”), where AI is seamlessly woven into user experiences to create adaptable and contextually-aware interactions.
"Machine intelligence is our new design material"
"typing prompts is not the UI of the future."
AI was presented as a powerful tool for data visualization, prototyping, and content generation, but we were cautioned against over-reliance and the need for human oversight. The potential dangers of AI were also acknowledged, with a call for responsible development and thoughtful integration.
3. Rethinking Social Media and the Internet:
Jon Bell proposed practical solutions for addressing the current challenges of social media, including better filtering, improved algorithms, and enhanced user control over data.
Dr. Maria Farrell delivered a compelling argument for “rewilding the internet,” advocating for breaking down data silos, dismantling monopolies, and promoting a more diverse and resilient online ecosystem.
"Big Tech loves autocrats and dictators"
"The goal of all of this is to regain the feeling of being connected, of being part of something bigger."
The need for government intervention and citizen activism was emphasized to counter the dominance of “OFGs” (One Fucking Guy).
4. The Power of Stories in a Post-Truth World:
Joan Westenberg highlighted the dominance of stories over facts in shaping public opinion and political discourse.
"Stories are more exciting, you can’t fight stories with facts."
She argued for the importance of fiction in preserving our humanity and fighting against the erosion of truth. This theme resonated with Nicholas Gruen’s call for “awakening our better angels” through the design of institutions that foster positive human values.
5. Challenges and Opportunities in Data-Driven Marketing:
Jon Bradshaw presented a critical analysis of data-driven advertising, exposing its high costs, data quality issues, and questionable effectiveness.
He advocated for a return to simpler, more effective marketing strategies.
"We’ve put the cart before the horse… we have to design technology that solves real advertising problems, not invent advertising problems that match what technology can do."
Talks and Highlights
Acknowledgement of Country and Opening Remarks: John Allsopp, founder of Web Directions, opens the conference with an Acknowledgement of Country and reflections on the recent US election, emphasizing hope and positive action. He also highlights the Bluesky Starter Pack for attendees.
Awakening Our Better Angels: Nicholas Gruen, a prominent economist and former government advisor, presents his video series exploring institutions and leadership. presents his video series exploring how to design institutions that foster positive human behavior and leadership.
Life-Centred Design: Steve Baty and Martin Tomitsch critique user-centred design, advocating for a life-centred approach that integrates ethical and environmental considerations.
Nudges, Behaviour Change and Complex Systems: Mary Nolan, Senior Product Designer and Applied Behavioural Scientist, examines the principles and limitations of nudge theory, emphasizing the importance of systemic solutions alongside individual behavior change.
And Now For Something Completely Human: Mark Pesce delivers an energetic talk on the three keys to longevity: staying active, connected, and contributing to society.
Nicholas Gruen Video Series (continued): Further exploration of themes from Gruen’s video series.
Sentient Design: Josh Clark explores the integration of AI into user experiences, showcasing the “Pinocchio” design pattern and the potential for “machine intelligence” as a design material.
Beyond the Noise: Data Visualization’s Role in Shaping Tomorrow: Jack Zhao, a design consultant specializing in data visualization and Co-Founder of Small Multiples, delves into the evolution of data visualization, offering insights into effective communication and the use of new technologies.
During lunch break, attendees engage in the “activations” provided by Playgrounded.
Why We Need Fiction: Joan Westenberg, a writer/investor/philosopher/founder, delivers a thought-provoking, slide-free talk on the power of stories, lamenting the Democrats’ loss in the US election due to their reliance on facts rather than compelling narratives.
A $700 Billion Delusion: Jon Bradshaw, founder Brand Traction, dissects the problems with data-driven advertising, arguing for a return to simpler, more effective methods.
The Future of Social Media: Jon Bell offers practical solutions to existing social media issues, such as troll filtering and algorithmic improvements.
Interledger: Alex Lakatos, CTO of The Interledger Foundation, discusses the development of Interledger, a new standard for international payments that operates independently of cryptocurrency.
Lightning Talks:
Web Applets: Rupert Manfredi, CEO of Unternet, introduces Unternet’s Web Applets, designed for human-AI collaboration.
Nook: Mel Flanagan showcases Nook Studios’ work on government transparency and advocacy projects.
Closing Keynote:
Let’s Rewild the Internet: Dr. Maria Farrell delivers a powerful call to action, urging the audience to dismantle tech monopolies and reclaim a diverse, decentralized internet. (image used)
Call to Action:
Web Directions Next 2024 served as a call to action for designers, developers, and technologists to embrace a more responsible and ethical approach to their work. Attendees were encouraged to:
- Design for life, not just users.
- Consider the long-term impact of AI and technology.
- Advocate for a more equitable and resilient internet.
- Fight for truth and resist the erosion of facts.
- Design technology that solves real problems, not problems that fit the technology.
Web Directions Next 2024 provided a thought-provoking and inspiring look at the future of technology and its impact on society. The conference fostered critical thinking, encouraged innovative solutions, and emphasized the importance of collective action in shaping a better tomorrow.
More on the day here
Ben Buchanan
Kris Howard
My Flickr photo album
