Confessions of an AR Impostor

How do we design an Augmented Reality experience when we’ve never designed for AR before? Worse yet, when most people have never designed for AR before. (Cue the scary music!) The simple answer is to overcome the fear and just start learning as much and as fast as we can, but that’s easier said than done. It would be nice if we had an example or two… a “How to Design for AR” handbook, or maybe some tactical steps to utilize when the paralyzing moment arrives?

This presentation will deep dive into the journey of a Senior Product Designer at Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Digital who faced the challenge of designing an AR experience for Disney Cruise Line with no prior knowledge of how to do it. (No, not scary at all!)

Formatted as a comprehensive AR design case study and wrapped in a relatable personal story, this talk covers:

• AR design process along with discussion of practical considerations, such as the importance of being present in or simulating the physical environment where your AR experience takes place.
• Practical explanations of how AR technology works, it’s inherent challenges and tips for making intelligent design and storytelling choices.
• How Disney Parks and Resorts Digital utilized AR to enhance the storytelling and magic of an existing physical space, improve guest satisfaction, and increase the impact of previously non-digital experiences.

Additionally, Whitney will share a list of resources from her own research on AR (a la “How to Design for AR” handbook) as well as a set of simple steps for coping with your own scary, something-you’ve-never-done-before moments.