Design Psychology

Author: Donald A. Norman
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2003-10-01
Features: This is a thought-provoking book. Excellent design is a form of communication between designers and users, and the needs of users should always be central to the entire design process. However, this does not mean that usability can override other factors. All great designs seek balance and harmony among artistic beauty, reliability, safety, usability, cost, and performance. You may have had such experiences: looking at a beautifully luxurious door but not knowing how to open it; dealing with a modern-looking faucet that leaves you flustered; feeling frustrated because you can't use your home audio system and feel left behind by the times. These awkward moments in front of others and the frustration behind them are entirely the designers' fault—not yours! We are just the ones taking the blame! In this book, cognitive psychologist Donald A. Norman uses a witty and insightful approach to explain the supreme design principles of human-centered design. He emphasizes that users should be able to understand how to operate products at a glance and that consumers should enjoy the experience rather than suffer frustration. Norman points out that excellent design can play a crucial role in market competition by influencing consumer behavior. So, if you are a designer or a business owner, when conceptualizing a product, please imagine the users' feelings first before prioritizing aesthetic beauty, artistic style, and cost. Strive for usability in design, because it is the source of a product's vitality. And if you are a user, then shout for usability in design. This way, more products will bring us the joy of operation—and we will no longer be punished by poorly designed products!