Working on Telepresence:
Making Space with Sound

A two day workshop exploring the 'meeting room of the future'

Every year trillions of minutes are spent using telepresence systems - e.g., Zoom, Google Meet and Microsoft Teams - however, these platforms leave much to be desired: so-called 'Zoom fatigue' is a real problem; approaches for hosting hybrid meetings are immature; much of the nuance of in-person communication is lost.

At this workshop we will explore how diligent and careful use of sound in the design of next-generation telepresence systems may contribute towards addressing some of these challenges by evoking a more naturalistic sense of space.

The workshop will be supported by the award-winning DARKFIELD, a company who specialise in making "immersive experiences at the forefront of technology and theatre". With DARKFIELD's support by the end of the workshop we will have created an 'experiential design fiction' capturing the insights we produce during the workshop in an audio experience that will immerse you in a 'meeting room of the future'.

The workshop is kindly supported by the Beyond Imagination project.

What's the deal?

Where?

The workshop is being hosted at ImaginationLancaster, a leading design-led research lab that is part of Lancaster University. Here is a link to a map.

Who is running this?

The workshop is being hosted by Dr Joe Lindley and Dr Sam Lindley, we both are brothers and researchers with an interest in the future of telepresence systems. The workshop is funded by the Beyond Imagination project, a £13.2m initiative providing fresh perspectives on real world challenges.

What's included?

We will pay for your travel costs and accommodation costs as well as providing an evening meal and food throughout the workshop.

Who will be attending?

We are aiming to have around 15 attendees who will be invited to make up a diverse and interdisciplinary group. You do not need to have any particular qualifications or expertise in order to attend. As attendees are confirmed we will add them to the roster below.

When?

The workshop will run form date to date.

Let us know if you'll be attending!