Leeds Beckett University’s Behaviour Lab research cluster explores the use of technology to support and maintain positive behaviour change, spanning many faculties and disciplines; from design, sports and healthcare to psychology and digital technology.
In Summer 2014, Carbon was commissioned to design and build a app for helping people manage weight-related issues. Working with consultants from Uscreates and researchers from the Lab, Carbon assisted in the design and delivery of a workshop for members of the More Life weight management community in Cheltenham.
During an afternoon of trust-building, lateral thinking and personal development with users, it became clear that tracking and measurement weren’t as important to users as notions of care, compassion, generosity, support and trust.
Our concepts cohered around a very human support structure and a tone very much grounded in relationships, support networks and circles of trust. Our work on Pararchive and Yarn had a deep influence on our work with the behaviour lab, with narrative and story becoming useful design materials for building trust.
