Microcopy refers to small pieces of text typically found in digital communication channels such as mobile apps, websites, and emails that aim to clarify, explain, and instruct users on how to navigate and complete tasks. Essentially, microcopy consists of the specific words and phrases that guide users through an interface. According to Kinneret Yifrah, microcopy encompasses the language directly related to the actions users take, including the motivation before the action, the instructions accompanying the action, and the feedback after the action is completed.
Microcopy - Space and Place
A personal passion project curated for my love for conversations, small talks, and writing.
The aim of this project is to investigate different aspects of microcopy by examining it outside of its usual context, which is digital devices and technology. This engaging study seeks to explore how microcopy is perceived in a physical space and its connection with conversations that mimic human interaction.
Drawing inspiration from Sarah Pink's book, "Doing Sensory Ethnography," this ethnographic research focuses on a bustling Starbucks location in San Jose State University. The goal is to be fully present in the environment, observe and take part in the diverse interactions that occur, and gain a deeper understanding of language and communication patterns, including the use of specific words and the circulation of voices.
ETHNOGRAPHIC STUDY
THE PLACE
I decided to visit the Starbucks at San Jose State University, where I spend most of my waking hours. The conversations in a coffee shop are typically quick, fast-paced, and constantly moving around. The SJSU or Spartan Starbucks is always bustling from morning till evening, and a wonderful place to meet people and interact with.
THE STRATEGY
Free writing. Observing all the people in the space around me was pretty interesting. A few prioritized coffee over being to class on time, some met up with their friends, and the others were like me—sitting in the corner of their room with their heads into their laptops or phones. And yes, the baristas, bustling with energy, running up and down to get the right cups into the hands of their customers.
WHAT DID I DO THERE?
I participated in the space as a customer. The drawings depicted here show noise circulation, exchange and sound pockets at different time periods - describing the space visually.
MY DESIGN RESPONSE
The brief video clip that follows showcases my musings on language patterns and my chat with the Barista at the cash register. It highlights the similarities between what could have been a rehearsed or scripted face-to-face conversation to the 'human-like' phrasing used in our mobile phones.
