On this episode of Experience by Design, we welcome Jonathan Cohen from G & A design. From Apple Vision Pro's risks to AR in museums, we discuss how tech's impact on our perceptions is profound. Jon describes how technology, when used thoughtfully, can create memorable bonding moments. Jon Cohen talks about how interactive elements in memorials and museums shape our collective memories. From Dachau's immersive experience to Destination Crenshaw's place-making, Jon Cohen dives deep into cultural memory. Finally, Jon urges us to create awe-inspiring experiences that pull us away from screens and into the moment.
In today’s episode of Experience by Design, we welcome Jon Cohen, an expert in transformative experience design from G&A, an experience design company. We do a deep dive into the potential risks and implications of emerging technologies, particularly the Apple Vision Pro, and its impact on distraction and deployment in various settings, including museums and public spaces.
Jon shares his expertise on integrating augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) to create immersive and awe-inspiring experiences, enhancing both educational programs and collective memories. The discussion extends to the evolution of video quality, the role of fashion trends, and the intricate balance of using technology to enhance, rather than distract from, meaningful experiences.
We’ll also hear poignant stories from Jon about gaming with his son and a transformative visit to Dachau, highlighting the power of immersive experiences in understanding cultural trauma. The conversation touches on significant historical events, such as Operation Overlord and the Vietnam War, and how reverence and reflection are incorporated into modern design.
We talk about how to approach the making of reverent spaces that not only prompt introspection, but also connection. While tech might be great for immersion, it can also lead to distraction. So the goal is to balance those features and think about when to use technology and when you need to leave it out. To be reverent is to be in the moment. This means the designer of reverent spaces needs to amplify the moment, heighten the sense of reverence, and move the person into the space of remembering.
Whether you’re interested in how today’s technology can preserve stories of the past or how it impacts our sense of identity and place, this episode promises a thoughtful exploration of the intersection between technology, design, and human experience.
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