note to self..

"Some men see things as they are and say 'Why?' I dream things that never were and say, 'Why not?'"

TD library: sound princess

Here is a nice example of transformation design. It deals with Japanse toilet culture.

In Japan it is considered rude for woman to be heard while they go to the bathroom. This has some longstanding cultural issues. So what do the Japanese women do? they keep flushing the toilet. Up to 20 liters a time is used.

So instead of a great awareness campaign (there was some communication), there was a design centric look at the problem and it's possible solution. Toto created the Sound Princess. A machine installed in bathroom that recreates the sound of a toilet flushing.

The whole article can be read here.

A practical way of changing culture to more positive values. A great way of reframing ancient culture with respect and adapting it to modern constraints (money, eco issues) and tech possibilities.

gringo pride bruised

Guess the USA doesn't have a great sense of humor. Perhaps because it is more true then they care to believe?