Ontenna rethinking assistive technology?

The goal was not just to evaluate Ontenna as a product, but to rethink what assistive technology can be. We aimed to show how design can move beyond problem-solving, toward creating meaningful, emotional, and human-centered experiences. Through theory, experimentation, and reflection, the project demonstrates how critical design methods can inspire future innovation within health tech, product design, and experience development.

Outside of work, I enjoy exploring new technologies and collaborating on creative projects. I believe in balancing professional growth with personal interests.

My resume highlights a range of experiences, from technical roles to leadership positions. Each opportunity has contributed to my growth.

Our Research Approach

1. Critical Design

We applied Critical Design methods (Bardzell & Bardzell, 2013) to challenge existing assumptions about hearing aids and disability. Instead of asking, “How can we fix this?” we asked “What new forms of perception can technology create?”

This shift in mindset helped uncover untapped value in sensory design and human–tech interaction

2. Speculative Futures

Using Speculative Design (Dunne & Raby, 2013), we explored different future scenarios for Ontenna - from practical to imaginative. This method guided our discussion on how assistive devices could evolve into lifestyle products that enrich the human experience, not just support it.

3. Human–Computer Interaction (HCI)

Through the Four Waves of HCI, we analyzed Ontenna’s interaction model: 1st & 2nd waves: Functionality and context of use 3rd wave: Emotional and experiential design 4th wave (Entanglement HCI): How humans and technology co-exist and influence each other. This framework helped us map how Ontenna creates value through embodied experience rather than pure function.

4. Embodied Interaction.

We also tested and reflected on the physical experience of using Ontenna - how vibration, movement, and light can act as a new language for sound. This user-centered, hands-on approach created real insight into how tactile design can empower people in everyday life.

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Insights and impact

Our findings position Ontenna as more than a hearing device - it’s a design statement about how technology can expand human capability.

Inclusive design as innovation - When products are built for accessibility, they often spark broader innovation that benefits everyone.

Sensory technology as experience design - Future tech will focus not only on data and function but also on emotion, embodiment, and meaning.

Critical Design as a strategy - Organizations can use critical design methods to question norms, explore possibilities, and strengthen ethical innovation.

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Why It Matters

This project bridges research and real-world innovation.
It demonstrates how design thinking, human insight, and technology can merge to build more inclusive, emotional, and forward-thinking solutions.

For companies and design teams, this approach offers a framework to: Discover new value opportunities through empathy-driven design. Challenge assumptions and test new user experiences and develop concepts that are socially responsible and future-oriented

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Conclusion

The Ontenna project shows how critical design research can guide real innovation.
By focusing on human experience rather than just technical performance, we can design technologies that truly connect, empower, and inspire.