UofM School of Information
Product Designer
Designathon
3 hours
Snapshot
Ctrl + Z is a mobile-first concept developed during a 3-hour designathon exploring the theme “Anti-Algorithm.” The project challenges personalization-driven platforms by designing an experience that replaces predictive optimization with human-curated spontaneity. Instead of tailoring content to user behavior, Ctrl + Z invites users to surrender control and rediscover surprise, trust, and real-world connection.
Core Problem
Digital platforms increasingly optimize for engagement through prediction and personalization.
Algorithmic feeds reinforce filter bubbles
Recommendation systems reduce genuine discovery
Engagement metrics prioritize retention over well-being
Users experience analysis paralysis from over-curated options
Optimization has replaced surprise.
Approach
Strategy
Interpreted “Anti-Algorithm” as a rejection of predictive personalization
Reframed the solution around intentional unpredictability
Designed a system where humans, not AI, curate experiences
Anchored concept in personas seeking spontaneity and authenticity
Interaction & Systems
Designed onboarding around “hard no’s” instead of preference profiling
Removed ratings, previews, and tracking loops
Structured experience as a one-day contained journey
Replaced “For You” feeds with human-curated experiences
Centered anticipation and trust as primary emotional states
Execution
Rapid concept framing and flow mapping within 3-hour constraint
Designed mobile-first prototype in Figma
Established cohesive narrative: sign-up → surrender → reveal → reflection
Balanced conceptual clarity with usable interaction structure
Visual Evidence
One Box. One Box. No Returns. : Think of it like a subscription box for your soul. But instead of snacks, you get stories.
Hard No? We Hear You. : Hate heights? Allergic to drama? Just tell us your red flags and we’ll take care of the rest. You’re safe, even in the surprise.
No Profiles. No Tracking. : We don’t remember your last trip. There’s no “For You” page. You’re not a pattern, you’re a person.
Human-Curated Chaos. : No AI. No data trails. Each experience is handcrafted by real people, artists, explorers, and kind-hearted weirdos.
Outcomes
Delivered a fully articulated mobile concept within 3 hours
Translated an abstract theme into a coherent interaction system
Demonstrated rapid systems thinking under time constraint
Explored anti-optimization as a viable UX direction
Showcased collaborative ideation and execution speed