Supporting gardeners to plan domestic watering: a case study of designing an 'everyday simulation'

ABSTRACT

We describe a project to design an internet-based application to support gardeners reasoning about the water demands and water supply for their gardens. This application is identified here as an instance of 'everyday simulation'; implying the use of simulation techniques for non-specialist users. Design strategies for everyday simulations are discussed including: the characteristic of simulations of inverting inputs and outputs; simulation by refinement; the embodiment of material constraints; and the educational aspect of simulation for non-specialists.

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INDEX TERMS

Primary Classification:
  H. Information Systems
  H.5 INFORMATION INTERFACES AND PRESENTATION (I.7)
      H.5.m Miscellaneous

General Terms:
Design, Human Factors

Keywords:
cognitive engineering, engagement, interaction design, simulation, sustainability, water