EASE OF TRANSACTIONS

Since the creation of the first electronic payment system (the Western Union wire transfers based on the telegraph system back in 1870) money has steadily been transforming from a physical object to an electronic entity. The next stage of this process will focus on our pocket change, replacing metal coins and paper notes with electronic technologies; such as contactless, “near field” communication and microchips.

New monetary innovations, like most advances in technology, cite speed and efficiency as the main engine for change, with the goal of reducing costs, increasing productivity and therefore driving economic growth. Although these very practical goals are necessary, they can sometimes overgeneralise the complexities of our human condition and overlook more subtle idiosyncrasies which are at play while we deal with our personal finances.

WE ARE NOW ACCEPTING ENTRIES FOR THE 2012: FUTURE OF MONEY - DESIGN AWARD.

We invite creative practitioners to employ a speculative design approach and imagine new electronic payment systems (based on real technology) which could help instill an increased awareness of our personal finances. Could new monetary technologies help facilitate a more meaningful financial transaction? What if our emotions could be expressed through our financial transactions? Will quick and easy payment systems inevitably lead to an increase in debt?

Submissions

We are looking for ingenious inventions, captivating stories and speculative futures.

Please send your entries to
Documentation: an explanatory video outlining your concept is preferred.
Video Work: (no need for highly polished versions) - sent via vimeo/youtube link (max 3 mins long)
PDF: maximum 2 pages communicating the concept.

Deadline for submissions is 17th March 2012.
Shortlisted entries will be informed by 20th March 2012.

Awards

The awards will be presented during the London Digital Money Forum, on the 28th / 29th March, organised by Consult Hyperion

PRIZES

The top three entrants will have the opportunity to present their concepts at the Digital Money Forum, to an audience of financial experts and industry leaders.

Arguably there has been no greater time of financial uncertainty than today and no greater need of fresh ideas and imaginative insights to help guide the creation of our financial futures.

1st prize – £750
2nd prize - £250

The top three entries will also be presented on Barclaycards ‘Future room’.
Shortlisted entries will be uploaded to the online Future of Money archive.

JUDGES