Awesome sound design tool: a web based utility that invites end users into the audio design process

Abstract

Previous auditory display research has shown how fundamental aspects of an auditory signal may influence perception and impact the emotional state of the listener. However, a challenge for designers is how to find signals that correspond to user situations and make sense within a user context. In this article we present a web based application called AWESOME Sound Design Tool; a tool that invites users to take part in the design process of auditory signals. The basic idea is to give users control over some aspects of the auditory stimuli and encourage them to manipulate the sound with a specific user scenario in mind. The software may help developers working with applied design to find more appropriate sounds for user situations. It might also help researchers to better understand correlations between the properties of a sound and characteristics of a user situation. A pilot study has been conducted in which car drivers designed warning signals for critical traffic situations. The pilot study illustrated how the tool could be useful for applied audio design.