Reemo: Generative Design

Reemo: Generative Design

Writer CUI Web Extension

Writer CUI Web Extension

Overview

The objective of this project was to explore innovative ways a conversational user interface (CUI) could enhance the user experience for writers. My vision was to develop a writing companion that interacts seamlessly with users, fostering healthy writing habits tailored to individual needs. This CUI aims to support all types of writers by providing dynamic, personalized assistance.

I examined UI feedback mechanisms from existing systems to inform the creation of my own conversational agents. My focus was on a specific problem space: supporting creative writers in collaborative environments like Google Docs. The goal was to design a companion that motivates, challenges, and constructively prompts users, drawing inspiration from the needs of creative writers.

The project involved refining the CUI through multiple iterations, progressing from abstract concepts to more concrete designs. The final iteration introduced Reemo, a friendly worm-like companion that assists with writing tasks. Unlike traditional tools like Grammarly, Reemo offers personalized and engaging interactions. It can even integrate with programs like Spotify to provide a holistic, supportive writing environment.

Illustrated graphic featuring the different states of the worm character, Reemo.
Illustrated graphic featuring the different states of the worm character, Reemo.
Illustrated graphic featuring the different states of the worm character, Reemo.

Reemo’s states.

Tools

Adobe Acrobat

Adobe Illustrator

Adobe Photoshop

Google Suite

DialogFlow

Skills

Algorithmic Thinking

Brainstorming

Creative Coding

Prototyping

Sketching

Time Management

Visual Design

Dialogue Writing

Flowchart Creation

Information Architecture

Image depicting Reemo as an extension, creating a playlist based on the content of a Star Wars fanfiction.
Image depicting Reemo as an extension, creating a playlist based on the content of a Star Wars fanfiction.
Image depciting Reemo as an extension, responding to a user.
Image depciting Reemo as an extension, responding to a user.
Image depciting Reemo as an extension, listening to a user talk to them.
Image depciting Reemo as an extension, listening to a user talk to them.
Image depicting Reemo as an extension, successfully processing information repeated by a user.
Image depicting Reemo as an extension, successfully processing information repeated by a user.
Image depicting many different ways in which a conversational user interface may express itself.
Image depicting many different ways in which a conversational user interface may express itself.
Image depicting many different ways in which a conversational user interface may express itself.
Early conversational study of a small CUI agent.
Early conversational study of a small CUI agent.
Early conversational study of a small CUI agent.
Graphic depicting multiple different artboards of CUI interactions and expressions.
Graphic depicting multiple different artboards of CUI interactions and expressions.
Graphic depicting multiple different artboards of CUI interactions and expressions.

Precedent Research

Precedent Research

The interaction dynamics of a CUI with users can be categorized into four primary themes:

  • Growth: The CUI evolves with the user, experiencing different "life stages" to enhance engagement.

  • Archival: A visual log of interactions, offering a rich history of conversations between the CUI and the user.

  • Form Building: Leveraging established elements to construct and enhance user experiences.

  • Simple to Complex: Gradual development of language and visual cues to enrich user interaction.


CUIs often adopt anthropomorphic characteristics, classified into three main types:

  • Character-based

  • Atmospheric

  • Object-based