Silvergame

The Fraunhofer-Institute for Computer Architecture and Software Technology FIRST in Berlin-Adlershof develops innovative software technology for IT-based systems and processes.

The aim is to produce high-quality, easy-to-use and intelligent technologies that offer users optimal support and can be adapted to suit their needs. The Institute’s work focuses on industrial applications in the following areas: automotive industry, air and space, medical, rail und production technology. Fraunhofer FIRST was founded in 1983 as an Institute of the German National Research Center for Information Technology (GMD) and has, since 2001, been part of the Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft. The Institute’s Director is Prof. Dr.-Ing. Stefan Jähnichen. As of 2009, FIRST has a total workforce of around 120, employed in three research departments – Embedded Systems, Interactive Systems and Intelligent Data Analysis – and an administrative department.

In the Silvergame project Fraunhofer FIRST works on the specific feedback algorithms for the applications dancing, singing and driving. The focus lies on evolving existing videoconferencing solutions into interactive social media applications for elderly people. The work comprises developing algorithms for eye- and head tracking as well as speech recognition and motion analysis . Fraunhofer FIRST integrates optical, acoustical and haptical sensors into the silvergaming platform.

The silvergame consortia subcontracted the BIS-Berliner Institur for Social Research GmbH

The BIS was founded in 1983. Director: Dr. Eva Schulze

BIS research contains:

• Social research methodology
• Field research, scientific surveys and opinion poll on changes in society
• Consulting for the public and the private sector
• Expert inquiries and recommendations
• Seminars and scientific congresses

Central subjects are:

• Research on the interrelation of society and technology, e.g. technology assessment, user acceptance; research on the interrelation of urban society and technology, e.g. informatisation in cities
• Research on Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) and the social consequences for different social groups and different types of households
• Research on changes in lifestyles and modes of living and their impact on the needs and requirements of different types of households
• Research on aspects of transformation of every-day-life, the health care system and the service sector.

The BIS concentrates on a qualitative approach of empirical research, however, BIS conducts all kinds of social scientific methods. Research is designed to assess an optimal fit between the logic of the research field and the requirements of our clients.

BIS has longstanding experience in evaluation research, especially in monitoring pilot projects and programmes, with a focus on household technology and services.