Why be boring when you can have a blast doing everyday stuff?!

Forget the boring routine because Fun Theory is all about turning ordinary tasks into small adventures around the city.

The ultimate question when designing a new public service is how to make people try it. How to engage them. Even if the service is designed to improve a certain aspect of citizens’ lives, often it is quite hard to initiate the usage of it, as humans tend to be creatures of habit and anything new requires time and effort to become part of a daily routine.

Changing the habits of someone can seem as an unpleasant idea before trying it out, so why not give them a reward for their effort?

Here comes Fun Theory, an initiative that explores the idea that making mundane tasks more enjoyable can actually encourage positive behavior change. The concept is based on the belief that if you add an element of fun to routine or everyday activities, people are more likely to engage in them. This approach aims to make tasks like recycling, using stairs instead of elevators, or obeying traffic rules more enjoyable and, consequently, more appealing. What better way to motivate someone than promising some fun?

Associating joy with a certain task, actually creates a pattern of expectation after completing this certain action. And this is how habits are born.

But enough with the talk. Let’s see examples from all around the world that managed to turn simple everyday actions to rewarding tasks and saw a huge increase in citizens’ involvement. 

Ballot Bin – Various cities all around the world

Ballot Bin is here to help keep the streets cigarette-free but also give answers to fun dilemmas in the cities. Citizens dispose of their cigarette butts in these bins, which feature a voting mechanism on topical questions. The collected data not only promotes environmental awareness but also provides insights into public opinions on various issues, fostering a sense of community involvement.

The Bottle Bank Arcade – Beijing, China

In Beijing, a recycling initiative turned bottle collection into a game. A specially designed recycling bin, the “Bottle Bank Arcade,” features a built-in screen with interactive games that users can play by tossing their plastic bottles into the bin. This playful approach encourages proper recycling and adds an element of fun. 

Playful Traffic Lights – Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon experimented with playful pedestrian traffic lights that display interactive games while people wait to cross the street. This not only makes waiting more enjoyable but also enhances safety by keeping pedestrians engaged and focused. 

The Fun Theory aligns with the idea that positive reinforcement and a touch of enjoyment can be powerful motivators for behavioral change. These examples showcase how Fun Theory principles can be integrated into various aspects of urban life, encouraging positive behaviors, fostering sustainability, and creating engaging experiences for residents and visitors alike. 

Join the ride and watch Fun Theory turn the world into a big playground, one new habit at a time!