Using design dimensions to develop a multi-device audio experience through workshops and prototyping

Designing audio experiences for heterogeneous arrays of multiple devices is challenging, and researchers have tried to identify useful design practices. A set of design dimensions have been proposed, providing researchers and creative practitioners with a framework for understanding the different design considerations for multi-device audio; however, they have yet to be used for scoping and developing a new experience. This work investigates the utility of the design dimensions for exploring and prototyping new multi-device audio experiences. Three workshops were conducted with audio professionals to see how the design dimensions could be used to form new ideas. Using the resulting ideas, a multi-device audio system combining loudspeakers and earbuds, and an experience based on that system, were created and demonstrated. The design dimensions were found to be useful for understanding multi-device audio experiences and for quickly forming new ideas. In addition, the dimensions were a helpful reference during experience development for testing different design choices, particularly for audio allocation.