simulated mini case study: netflix shuffle

This project is unaffiliated with Netflix and is only for educational purposes.

the ask

How can Netflix simulate the experience of turning on re-runs on one’s favorite shows on cable TV?

For years, sitcom watchers around the world would turn on a channel replaying Friends, How I Met Your Mother, The Big Bang Theory, The Golden Girls, and other popular shows to enjoy as a pastime, perhaps playing in the background as they complete chores or other work. A key part of this experience for many is the minimization of the cognitive load of deciding what season, episode, or story-line to watch.

the problem

Popular streaming services like Netflix make individuals choose what episode to watch. While this offers a high level of control which is desirable in some situations, it is a barrier here.

the solution

Implement a shuffle feature.

Netflix’s UX already has adequate space for a fourth option on its key options panel within each individual show. While Netflix has implemented a global shuffle feature on some devices, this feature would instead allow individuals to shuffle a specific show.

Individuals can then select from a list which seasons they would like to shuffle episodes from.