Fear (79)
App that barks up the right tree
The RodeDog app detects when motorists are attempting to drive and text at the same time. It sends a message to friends and family members who can hopefully discourage drivers from the practice.
The app works by determining if a driver is behind the wheel using the GPS functionality. Users can add friends and family to their list of people who get notified if they attempt to drive and use their phone at the same time. If they are caught doing so, friends can respond by sending alerts–audible dog barks – to remind them that they should be concentrating on the road.
Why it matters
Mixing the trends of gamification and social networks, this app makes the security concern fun. What is interesting here is that the nudge to behave appropriately is given by acquaintances, which is all the more powerful. Could governmental initiatives be inspired by this?
Source: http://www.springwise.com
Image source: http://www.springwise.com
17. December 2012
Swapping pixels for pistols
‘Pixels for Pistols’ is an original gun trade-in programme. Hand in your illegal firearm to the Winnepeg Police in Canada, and electronic retailer Henry’s will offer you a Panasonic digital camera as well as a School of Imaging gift card worth $240.
Why it matters
Perhaps a digital camera isn’t an attractive exchange item, but the initiative seems like a good way for local retail stores to contribute to the improvement of their communities. How can retail chain stores and franchises get involved more actively in their local neighbourhoods?
Glow-in-the-dark road
The Netherlands are developing safer highways by incorporating a glow-in-the-dark component to them.
The glow effect will be achieved with the help of a special photo luminescent powder able to charge in the daylight and then illuminate the road for up to 10 hours at night. The idea has already won the Best Future Concept prize at the Dutch Design Awards.
Why it matters
The potential of this component makes us think about other possible usages, especially in sunnier countries; perhaps it could light up entire cities and save on the public expense bill? But would it also create distractions and unwelcomed light pollution? How could brands take advantage of this new technology – and be seen more often even when the sun goes down?
Source: http://www.trendhunter.com
Image source: http://www.trendhunter.com
28. November 2012
