Arts Thread

Auzm is an at-home bot system paired with a dual-version app, developed to assist high-functioning autistic emerging adults in independently managing their daily routines. The system fosters a sense of autonomy while offering caregivers peace of mind through nonintrusive oversight. The app features two distinct versions: one for the user and one for the guardian. The user’s version is intuitive and designed to minimize cognitive load, helping them easily understand what tasks need to be done and when. The guardian’s version enables caregivers to track the user’s progress remotely without being intrusive or needing to check in constantly via calls or in person. Each bot is uniquely colored and personified with a name and avatar. As a task approaches, the relevant bot provides early cues by lighting up, playing music, and rotating its top disc to gently bring the task to the user’s attention. When the user presses the disc to begin, the music and lights stop, but the disc continues to rotate, indicating task initiation on the app. During the task, the disc remains active, and reminders may continue through intermittent music. Once completed, the user presses the disc again, stopping the rotation and marking the task as done. The design language of this bot system is intentionally subtle and visually calming, incorporating simple forms, pastel colours, soft sans serif fonts and a satisfying texture, carefully chosen to suit the sensory preferences of autistic young adults. This approach to both function and form enhances the user’s comfort and engagement with the system. To further encourage participation, successful and timely task completion earns users virtual coins that can be collected and used to unlock new avatars, turning daily routines into a positive and rewarding experience. In this way, Auzm transforms task management into a supportive, empowering journey where independence is nurtured and progress is proudly celebrated.