Automated artefacts as co-performers of social practices: washing machines, laundering and design

This chapter explores, as a thought experiment, the implications of considering automated artefacts as co-performers of practices alongside people. It uses the washing machine as a widely studied, prolific example of automation in everyday life. The chapter begins by arguing that with some stretching, it is possible to consider artefacts as co-performers of practices within existing theoretic frameworks of contemporary practice theories. It then illustrates how the concept of co-performance offers a new perspective on the role of automation—including the role of technology designers—in how practices of laundering are configured and have changed over time. The chapter closes by stipulating some avenues for further research to develop the concept of co-performance and its application in practices of technology analysis and design.