
The fault, argues this ingenious - even liberating - book, lies not in ourselves, but in product design that ignores the needs of users and the principles of cognitive psychology. That’s why designers must always keep in mind that no matter how revolutionary a technology is, if it’s difficult or impossible to use, it will be useless to the consumer.Ī well-designed product teaches its users how to use it.Design doesn't have to complicated, which is why this guide to human-centered design shows that usability is just as important as aesthetics.Įven the smartest among us can feel inept as we fail to figure out which light switch or oven burner to turn on, or whether to push, pull, or slide a door.

The ever-changing and developing nature of technology make it harder than ever for designers to make new products that are still easy to use. While it’s convenient to have everything on one device, it also makes those devices prone to becoming overly complicated. They transitioned from touch pads to touch screens, and their main function is no longer just to make phone calls: now it includes texting, taking pictures, e-mailing, etc.

Take the way that cell phones have changed over the past fifteen years.

In the modern world, one of the main causes of bad design is the incredibly rapid development of technology. But in an effort to connect to so many devices, designers cram remotes full of confusing buttons and options – which makes them hard for people to use.Īnd although people may think that they’re too stupid to use a simple TV remote, the real culprit is the bad design that fails to connect the user and the technology. – that are part of a home entertainment system. It’s capable of connecting and controlling all the devices – DVD players, satellites, game consoles, etc. In actuality, the problem is bad design.īad design is the result of neglecting the relation between users and technology good design brings technology and people together.

Many people have difficulties using seemingly simple everyday products and often believe that they themselves are the problem. Have you ever found it impossible to get a new device working, like the remote control of a new TV set? If so, you’re not alone.
