Intentional | Audio Identity Blog

I recently came across the Bio Mapping project — a sensor which allows people to “record their Galvanic Skin Response (GSR)…which is a simple indicator of emotional arousal in conjunction with their geographical location.” It then transmits that data to a network, which is where things really get interesting: “This can be used to plot a map that highlights point of high and low arousal. By sharing this data we can construct maps that visualise where we as a community feel stressed and excited.” Fascinating!

Possible implications? Let’s say that over time, results showed that high-stress points existed in places such as crowded sidewalks, busy intersections, shopping malls, etc. I’d then be curious to know what the negative consequences of severe public stress are, and, naturally, what can any of us do about that?

Consider a few semi-predictable outcomes of localized public stress: higher crime; traffic/pedestrian congestion; traffic accidents; and a general distaste among locals who, in avoiding such “stressful spaces,” also no longer shop in those areas (though young people and tourists may feel the opposite about this — the buzz is where they want to be. Times Square, for instance.).

What’s the negative impact of localized stress? Well, cities may find them both a blessing and a curse; they love the taxes that come with tourist dollars, and as locals have other options, then everyone may win. On the other hand, social interaction in public “civil” spaces — open plazas, parks, etc. — (theoretically) declines in unsafe or overcrowded spaces. And on the road, traffic congestion is very costly for cities/states to manage and contain. Auto insurance companies probably feel the same way (and are willing to fund better solutions).

After cities and transportation hubs, the other major public spaces are in the semi-public realm. Hospitals. Colleges. And then the obvious: shopping mall or retail-heavy areas, where more stress is simply bad for business. People don’t shop if they’re not happy. Feeling unsafe. Overcrowded. Or otherwise stressed.

To put it briefly, collective social stress is a problem that’s not only bothersome, but expensive.

So. Naturally, I’m inclined to consider the role of sound in solving those problems. How can the intentional use of sound relieve communal stress? Brainstorm with me:

• Sound can soothe. Soothing sounds can come from structural, environmental sources; these may include acoustic engineering to lessen the noise-pollution factor. Alternatively, natural waterfalls or other like features can achieve the same effect. Beyond engineering options, music can always be piped in to create a sense of calm, but extreme care should be given in matching music with the function of the space. And I’m sure the list goes on: got ideas?
• Next, the smart use of sound can effectively distract. I’m pretty sure this is what many retail store owners think when they blast loud music and drop plasma video screens in their spaces. Unfortunately, few of them acknowledge the role of music and sound in the larger choreography that is their guest experience. That only adds more stress. On the other hand, I can imagine a not-too-distant future when retail developers will take a cue from museums/ipods and offer headphone-driven “audio guides” to their spaces, with content varying from actual “guide” services to broadcast/satellite radio to customized audio playlists. Less social, yes. But less stressful if done well. How else can sound effectively distract?
• Sound can also enhance the civilian experience. You’re shopping, you’re hurried, you’re busy. But hey — are those Christmas carolers? Wow, that’s nice. Nothing beats certain kinds of live music to actually improve your mood when you’re otherwise uninterruptable. Got any more recommendations?
• Finally, sound can direct and guide. Ding. Beep beep. Mind the gap. Caution, sweeper approaching. Prepare for takeoff. Smart use of audio can move us in the right direction — creating clarity from an otherwise cluttered world. If you’ve been to downtown Oakland, you’re familiar with the audio-directional walk/don’t walk sounds that were intended for the visually impaired. I see that as barely scratching the surface. What about GPS for the blind? Or audio-based wayfinding cues in airports or other task-heavy spaces? Or perhaps a highway warning system that relies exclusively on different groove patterns in the pavement to inform drivers of dangers or traffic jams ahead?

Phew. Lots to consider. Some architects and planners obviously take these considerations into mind (think Chicago O’Hare’s underground United terminal connection). Others clearly don’t. The good news is that there’s a lot of room for improvement here, and much of it is uncharted, which makes for an interesting way to make this a better world. What do you recommend?

Go ahead, call me a dreamer. This area just feels ripe for innovation to me. The business implications for problem-solvers in these areas are rather attractive, too.