Deadbook
Hell is other people
Deadbook is an interactive story conveyed using social networking conventions. Participants register
for an account on Deadbook.org, the social network for the dead, and engage in a developing story
involving three characters who have recently passed away. Upon registering, participant receive a
friend request from one of the main characters. If participants accept, they will have access to that
character's Deadbook profile. The story is pieced together by the comments, photos, videos, and other
information listed on each character's profile. Profiles and friendships are dynamically updated as
participants progress until they learn the true nature of these relationships.
I came up with the original concept of using a social network to tell a story. From there, I worked with my team to design and flesh out the interactions that would take place on the website, including friendship requests, comments, and video blogs. As content was being produced, I conducted a series of usability studies to shape the story and presentation in a way that was effective and meaningful to our audience. This was especially important due to Deadbook's untraditional storytelling format.
Deadbook was created in three weeks for my graduate course in visual storytelling. Experience this new form of storytelling at Deadbook.org.