Design of Everyday Things

The Design of Everyday Things
By Donald A. Norman

Comments: Bill Hamilton

Summary:

In this book, Norman offers a unique perspective about object designs and how shows how they impact our lives. Design can enhance our lives, cause frustration, or lead to major accidents. He explores how the user interprets an object and how to apply design practices that improve interaction and correct use. Also, object designs must consider the brain's memory management process and the psychological impact on the user. As Norman says, " (a) well designed object is easy to interpret and understand." (p. 2)

Next, the key design principles are visibility, a good conceptual model, affordances, constraints, and mapping. Multiple examples were given to illustrate the principles. Then, understanding the types of memory and how reminding can aid the user. Similarly, accounting for errors and applying constraints can improve the design and increase its usability. Lastly, the overall design principles are demonstrated by the evolution of the typewriter/keyboard.

Discussion:

DOET has changed the way I view objects, specifically doors, telephone, and electronics.
Technology is becoming more advanced and complicated for the user. Since so many objects are in our lives then in order for these gadgets to improve our lives, one must be able to use them.

As computer engineers. our designs are going to have an impact on society. We can make the best tool, but if we cannot communicate its use by a user-friendly design then it is useless. There are many factors in the design process and applying this principles are paramount. It is easy to forget about the average consumer and look at the product through their eyes.