Experience design is intentionally orchestrating co-creation toward shared outcomes.
principle — attributed to Andrew Lacanienta
Lacanienta defines experience design with academic precision. The process of intentionally orchestrating experience to provide opportunities for participants to co-create or participate with one another and sustain interactions that lead to results desired by both participants and the designer. Experiences can be anything from traditional meetings, conventions, and showrooms to brand activations and bank-teller interactions. The definition matters because it specifies the work. Intentionally (not by accident). Orchestrating (designed sequence). Co-create (participants make it with the designer). Sustain interactions (across time, not just in the moment). Desired by both parties (not just the designer). Every word does work.
For experience designers, event programmers, and any practitioner whose value depends on shaping participant interaction. The definition is most useful as a self-check against work that has drifted toward unilateral programming.
definition, co-creation, intentional, outcomes