I am recently on a behavioral economics kick. Having just read Predictably Irrational by Dan Ariely, I knew I had to attend the Design for Action Conference. My work sent me to attend the workshop and conference held in Chicago and here are some takeaways.
1. In any type of behavior change, we all go through ups and downs — as designers, we need to find ways to encourage excellence, but also offer support for when people fall.
2. There are critical moments in each person’s journey that need to be supported– whether that be a nudge to push a little harder after a successful attempt, or empathy after a failed attempt.
3. Having a deep understanding of critical moments and the behaviors that surround them can inform how to provide support through encouragement or discipline.
Here is a working model I’ve developed representing how design might support someone through a behavioral change:
