Bridging the Gap: Designing for Humans and Non-Humans in Digital Interaction
Kaustubh Salgaonkar · 2025
This paper explores the unique challenges and opportunities in designing user interfaces (UI) that cater to both human users and their non-human companions. It delves into the interplay between human emotional connections, practical needs, and the behavioral characteristics of non-human participants, proposing a comprehensive design framework for such interactions. Using the case study of "Purrfect Parents," a mobile application aimed at supporting first-time cat owners who are college students, I demonstrate how user-centered design methodologies can enhance usability, engagement, and user satisfaction. Key findings highlight the significance of empathy-driven design and multi-modal interaction systems. The results also emphasize addressing both human and non-human behavioral dynamics for more effective interfaces. Future work aims to broaden the application of these principles to various contexts, including assistive technologies and wildlife conservation tools.