Cindy Hsin-Liu Kao, Chris Schmandt

Abstract

We explore how everyday objects can serve as social catalysts to increase social interaction in the workplace. As an initial exploration, we created MugShots, a coffee mug with a wireless OLED display. Users can wirelessly transmit images onto the mug, revealing different self-identities though an everyday object, in turn triggering interest and conversation with others. We present a prototype of MugShots along with a 10 person pilot study to gauge the feasibility of this idea.