Our Work

Services Provided

In spring 2022, Hop Studios embarked on developing the Recommendation Engine for Pathway to Happiness, which is a cornerstone technology for Greater Good in Action. Pathway to Happiness delivers a personalized pathway to happiness based on user-specific data, and expands the capabilities of the scientific research undertaken by the Greater Good Science Center. The Recommendation Engine is grounded in scientific research that supports the theory that personalized social and emotional well-being practices deliver more effective outcomes than standardized programming, helping individuals experience deeper personal growth and improved mental health.

The Recommendation Engine expands existing Pathway functionality and provides a flexible, comprehensive way to create sets of practices based on the scientific theories of researchers. Those researchers can set up testing scenarios to get real-world data about their theories. The tool relies on a variety of demographic and psychological variables which, when provided by users, can be used to calculate the best-fitting practices to achieve the research goals.

Some of the technical highlights of this system are:

• Multiple Practice Engines: Prototyping and building mechanisms for creating variants of practice assignment methods, which include fixed and random types based on weighted preferences.
• Recommendation Engine: Developing a Linear Regression Model to match practices with users based on up to 100 demographic factors. This system incorporates complex interactions like age squared or combined demographic variables, all managed within a user-friendly interface.
• Practice Assignment: Customizing practice sequences for new members upon registration, facilitated by an advanced API that handles dynamic assignment based on evolving recommendation logic.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Hop Studios tackled significant challenges in data handling, interface design, and system integration to ensure the Recommendation Engine operates seamlessly and effectively:

• Data Management and Version Control: Implementing robust systems to track changes and updates to practice and user variables, using a structured EE control panel for data input and revision tracking.
• User Interface Design: Crafting an intuitive control panel that allows team members to adjust recommendation parameters easily and monitor ongoing results.

FUTURE DIRECTIONS

As we continue to refine the Recommendation Engine, we plan to incorporate additional variables and machine learning techniques to enhance its predictive accuracy. Our goal is to establish a model that not only adapts to user feedback but also anticipates user needs based on emerging patterns. Portions of the Recommendation Engine are also utilized by the BIG JOY Project, a seven-day experience of micro-practices developed by GGIA and Mission: JOY.

CONCLUSION

The Greater Good in Action Pathway To Happiness project represents a pioneering step in personalized mental health and well-being. Hop Studios is proud to be at the forefront of this initiative, developing technology that empowers individuals to lead happier, more fulfilled lives. This project not only supports those who use the platform but also advances the broader scientific understanding of happiness and well-being.