A new way of using persuasive games for multi-actor problems

Abstract

This master's thesis explores the potential of persuasive games for addressing challenges in multiactor systems. For many multi-actor system problems, the different actors need to take action to handle these problems. Persuasive gaming is proposed as a method that can stimulate taking action. This thesis identifies a gap in the applicability of existing persuasive games to multi-actor systems problems and proposes an alternative approach: game-mediated persuasive strategy. The research uses an explorative strategy, defining seven criteria for evaluating the effectiveness of this strategy. A case study on the labor shortage in Rotterdam's port area is conducted, featuring a game utilizing a cat cafe metaphor to represent the labor market. The game is played by employees from both companies in the port area and the Port of Rotterdam itself. With observations and surveys, the effect of the game is evaluated. One of the key insights is the emergence of collaboration as a crucial factor in tackling the labor shortage, an outcome not predefined in the game but contributed by the players. Therefore, it is recommended to the Port of Rotterdam to invest in collaboration between companies. While the findings are based on a single case study and thus lack generalizability, they show the promise of this underexplored approach of persuasive gaming in addressing multi-actor system problems. In conclusion, the study underscores the potential of game-mediated persuasive strategy in promoting collaborative action among stakeholders in multi-actor systems. Although further research with a larger participant pool and across various contexts is necessary for broader validation, this study shows potential for a new method to help actors with multi-actor system problems. Gamemediated persuasive strategy deserves more research to further validate this method.