Prototyping the Future of Human Connection: a life-centred and foresight-driven approach to designing for human connection

Abstract

This thesis investigates how life-centred and foresight-driven design can contribute to prototyping the future of human connection. This study provides a review of the artifacts and practices developed by Tngl Studios (such as card-based tools and offline experiences) and evaluates how these artifacts function as anticipatory probe systems that encourage belonging, emotional understanding, and meaningful interaction among users. This study employed various qualitative and quantitative methods, such as interviews, netnography, surveys, and benchmarking, integrated with an extended Double Diamond methodology. This approach explored user requirements, system constraints, cultural influences, and emerging practices for creating meaningful social interactions; it also identified potential long-term societal changes. The results of this study show that small, tactile, and emotive artifacts have the potential to create patterns of rhythm, reflection, and shared attention that can grow from localized experiments into established organizational norms. Ultimately, this dissertation argues that designing meaningful connections between humans requires integrating ecological thinking, emotional well-being, and futures literacy into the design process. In conclusion, the dissertation presents strategic paths for educational institutions, workplaces, and cultural organizations aiming to develop more humane and life-centered futures.