Psyched!

To put this idea into practice, we have constructed a web-based tool that not only helps people specify ideas, but that also includes the powerful feature of different reinforcement schedules. In behavior research, it is well established that positive consequences for good actions is much more efficient than punishing bad behavior. Therefore, the users of the Psyched! web tool will have the chance to gain privileges and benefits of different sorts, sponsored by our partner organizations.

From the user’s point of view, you can conveniently skip most of the hassle of registering and simply log on with his or her Facebook account. The primary activity is to register the concrete set of behaviors conducted since the last visit. A central aspect of the web tool is each user’s personal interactive or tamagoshi-like garden. The more behaviors registered, the more viable this garden becomes – filling up the user’s screen with colourful flowers, trees and different animals.

The user can also add behaviors of his or her own, by typing them into the ”suggestions” section. These suggested behaviors are scrutinized to ensure their environmental efficiency, and those that pass are added to the behavior database. This way, the users can contribute to the database and thereby inspire each other.

From our parners’ point of view, Psyched! presents a unique way of promoting action in line with the organization’s values, and additionally to gain goodwill and visibility. By sponsoring specific behaviors characteristic of the organization, our partners can move from a passive to an active communication strategy. Furthermore, they can easily get in association with other organizations with similar values, fostering synergy and collaboration. Those who wish to promote products can sponsor with rewards for diligent users.