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SuperFFD
Where search turns into visual discovery

Super Fast Forward (SuperFFD)

 

Innovation: Visual discovery of large data
Implementations: Pro Helvetia, Swiss State Archives
Product type: Customizable web application
Copyright: Superdot GmbH
Award: Indigo Awards 2025 gold winner in UX, interface & navigation
Protection: Proof of creation and owner registration with NFT

Traditional Search

Today’s digital landscape is flooded with information, yet conventional search systems require users to know exactly what to look for. This leads to missed opportunities for discovery and learning – and fails to address the fundamental issue of «not knowing what you don’t know».

 

Overview first, details on demand

SuperFFD redefines digital search by introducing Data Experience (DX) – a unique approach that goes beyond static data visualization by incorporating interactive navigation principles. Instead of relying on precise search terms, users explore content playfully and intuitively. «Overview first, details on demand» – we provide a comprehensive view of the data space first, then enable targeted exploration. Rather than forcing users to translate their information needs into exact terminology, SuperFFD presents visual patterns that trigger recognition instead of recall – inspired by how people explore physical environments.

 

Core Principles

SuperFFD treats search as a visual journey through an information landscape, applying Superdot’s Modular Information Design principles in a dynamic, interactive context. The system uses visual aggregation to distill complex data sets into accessible overviews.

Topographic information mapping

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Creates intuitive visual territories for natural navigation

Progressive disclosure

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Prevents cognitive overload by revealing details step by step

Relationship-oriented visualization

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Prioritizes connections between elements rather than isolated data

Serendipitous discovery

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Encourages meaningful insights through context and visual proximity

Use Case for Pro Helvetia – Art, Science & Technology Directory

Swiss cultural council Pro Helvetia uses SuperFFD for its «Art, Science & Technology Directory», enhancing access to a global directory of 720 organisations at the intersection of art, science and technology. These organisations were identified by local experts across various regions worldwide. SuperFFD enables intuitive, visual navigation through this complex dataset – helping users find relevant information more efficiently and discover lesser-known organisations they might otherwise miss.

Use Case for Swiss State Archives – Museumsnacht

The Swiss State Archives deployed SuperFFD during Museum Night on an impressive 2-metre touchscreen to offer visitors a radically new way of exploring archival content. Instead of sifting through index cards, users could visually navigate the archive through an interactive interface. The installation transformed the traditionally static archive experience into a playful and engaging journey. Families, history buffs and casual visitors alike discovered how SuperFFD brings the joy of physical browsing into the digital realm.

Which industries is SuperFFD suited for?

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SuperFFD is ideal for sectors where data exploration is essential: e-commerce & retail, archives & libraries, real estate, legal & compliance, healthcare, education & research. Especially valuable for organisations managing large, complex data sets.

How does SuperFFD solve the problem of «unconnected search filters»?

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Traditional filters often lead to dead ends – users don’t know if results exist until after applying filters. SuperFFD shows visually which combinations are viable before users commit. No more zero-result frustration.

What role does AI play in SuperFFD?

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We’re actively exploring AI to structure and pre-process data. Further potential lies in AI-powered pattern recognition – akin to neural networks – where AI could help detect hidden relationships between data points.

How is SuperFFD implemented technically?

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SuperFFD runs as a SaaS solution with API integration. It’s content-independent and scalable – ranging from custom client solutions to adaptable platforms for diverse datasets. Fully optimised for devices from smartphones to 2-metre touchscreens.

What is SuperFFD’s disruption potential?

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SuperFFD could become the missing interaction layer for AR and VR environments – no search bar needed. It redefines how people interact with digital information and has the potential to transform sectors like e-commerce, education and archiving.

What’s the business model?

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Hybrid licensing: initial custom setup plus annual subscription. Additional revenue streams include SaaS plans, custom implementations, training & consulting, and strategic partnerships with existing platforms. We're also developing new concepts for private use cases.

What is Data Experience and how is it different from traditional data visualisation?

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Data Experience (DX) goes beyond static charts – it combines visual and interactive navigation to actively engage users. While static visuals display information, DX invites exploration and transforms information search into an immersive experience.