Unpacking the Future of Storytelling at SEGD Xlab 2023

The 2023 SEGD Xlab presented a compelling vista into the future of storytelling, framed within the vibrant interplay of technology and creativity. Leaders in experiential design convened to unpack the myriad ways in which emerging technologies can enhance, alter, and advance the narratives we share. This synthesis aims to unravel the rich tapestry of themes and dialogues presented at the event, promising a glimpse into the heartbeat of creative innovation.

Igniting Creativity

Stephanie Riggs , the beacon of the day, opened with a rousing charge on "Igniting Creativity." Her thesis revolved around catalyzing the spark of innovation across disciplines, setting the tone for a day of expansive thinking. Riggs' discourse was not merely an introduction but a call to action, to embrace the intersections of art, technology, and shared human experiences in storytelling.

The Ecosystem Era

Neil Redding took the mantle as the keynote speaker, presenting "The Ecosystem Era - Shared Experience for Humanity and Beyond." His foresight into how interconnected experiences define our era underpinned the necessity of an ecosystemic approach in creating narratives that transcend boundaries and foster a unified human experience.

Rapid Iteration & Inquiry

Marta Ordeig Bofías , in her interactive session, championed the significance of "Why Asking the Right Question Matters." Through rapid iteration and engaging the audience, Ordeig demonstrated the potent impact of pivotal questions in steering innovation and the iterative process in narrative conception.

Panel Discussion: Hype or Here to Stay?

The panel discussion, featuring the minds of Justin "JB" Bolognino , Melvin Wilson , Robin White Owen , and Darragh Dandurand, powered by Scott Varland real-time IA crowd-sourcing platform, delved into pivotal technologies. They dissected the promise and pitfalls of AI ethics, mixed reality, wearable devices, the metaverse, and spatial computing, illuminating which might endure as mainstays in our technological lexicon.

Breakout and Dive-In Tech Sessions

Post-panel, attendees immersed themselves in hands-on sessions that pushed the boundaries of interactive experiences:

• AI ethics and integration with Silka Sietsma ,
• Game engines and spatial storytelling with Alex Coulombe ,
• The intricacies of VR, virtual events, and worlds with Kristopher Layng , and
• The utilization of data in design with Scott Brown .

These sessions were crucibles of shared knowledge, fostering a dynamic environment of learning and exploration.

Concept & Creation Panels

The day continued with panels dissecting the 'Concept & Creation' processes. Eric Gunther and Sadah Espii Proctor unraveled the layers involved in developing unique concepts, marrying business strategy with creative design. A pivot to 'Creation Considerations' with Katy Yudin and Elena Piech offered alternative perspectives on translating these concepts into tangible experiences.

Closing Keynote: Fireside Chat

The event culminated in a fireside chat, a nexus of reflection and foresight, with Andrew Lazarow from Rockwell Group and Chris Conte from Electrosonic . They shared their wisdom on integrating technology within storytelling, unveiling strategies that shape immersive spaces and experiential narratives.

SEGD Xlab 2023 served as a crucible for the transformative power of creative technologies in storytelling. The speakers and sessions not only provided a glimpse into the capabilities of current technologies but also forecasted the shape of narratives to come. The event underscored a pivotal theme: it's not just the technology we use, but how we apply it to enrich our stories and connect with our audience that will define the future of our shared human experience. As we move forward, the insights gleaned from this gathering will undoubtedly serve as a compass for creatives navigating the evolving landscape of experiential design and storytelling.