Designing For Humans

In the book Designing For Emotion I read chapter 2 called “Designing For Humans” and found it very insightful. Author Aarron Walter employs the use of practical examples and metaphors that really bring credibility to his arguments. In the chapter he discusses the idea that “behind every design principle is a connection to human nature and our emotional instincts” (Walter, 18).

Something I agreed with in this chapter is his discussion about design being a vital part of any interface. He says “perceptions are critical,” and goes on to prove his point by saying that if you were applying for a job, even if your experience and abilities were absolutely outstanding, if you showed up to the interview dressed in pajamas, you would most likely not receive the job. “Design is too often wrongly taken for the indulgent frosting on a functional interface,” Walter writes (25). So design, while it can be manipulated into creating an image of an interface that may not be the reality, is still vital because it communicates the content of the interface. You may possess an incredible interface, but with an unappealing design you won’t see the interface succeed.

One of the ideas Walter argues which I don’t completely agree with is the absolute need for clear contrast, though not too much, to succeed in design (23).  While contrast does make you stand out, it can sometimes be a very negative way to bring attention to your design. He does say that too much contrast can be too much for the human brain and ends up hurting your overall design, but he still emphasizes the absolute need for contrast. I do think it is important, but it paints this picture in my mind that people only see black and white. I think there are many other important elements to design that may not completely contrast with another’s design, but blend and merge ideas while offering a unique aspect. If my design doesn’t completely contrast with someone else’s, does that mean any viewer will completely write it off? I don’t think so. I think contrast is a very important element of design, but perhaps without insinuating that without it you cannot succeed in design. I often see in our modern world the message that I have to stand out and be different or I’ll just be another face in the crowd. I think, yes, I want to be an individual, and not be merely a reflection of people around me, but living as someone who is merely trying to be different than everyone else can sometimes be very stand offish to others.

References: Walter, A. (2011). Designing For Humans. In Designing For Emotion [E-reader version] (pp. 16-27).