a calmer web
focused web experience to improve workplace productivity
Project Overview
Internet distractions cause a loss in productivity that costs the U.S. economy over $997 billion annually. Remote work due to the COVID-19 pandemic worsened this problem. Grounded in the lived experiences of neurodivergent individuals, A Calmer Web is a digital sanctuary where users can focus, be productive, and achieve their goals.
Approach
A Calmer Web was implemented as a Microsoft Edge browser extension that helps users focus through digital affordances based on ADHD management tools. It integrated with the Focus Timer and Microsoft To-Do applications to facilitate Pomodoro sessions and offer machine learning–based recommendations based on users’ current task.
My Role
I created the project concept, designed the interactions, and drove the partnership between Windows and Microsoft Edge to build the application.
Outcomes
A Calmer Web received enthusiastic support from Windows leadership. I leveraged the success of the project to drive new productivity solutions for neurodivergent users, including the Focus Sessions feature on Windows 11, which was inspired by A Calmer Web.