Category: Assignment Week 1

The two objects that I choose are namely, a muji stapler and clamshell packaging. While the muji stapler exemplifies a good design, the clamshell packaging, on the other hand, represents otherwise.

The first object that I choose is a stapler from muji, that I use almost every day. (seen in picture below)

Firstly, I think that stapler as a tool or stationary is itself, an “inevitable form”. It is a good design because it is simply an intuitive object. With its small opening that mouths an invitation for paper and its smooth handle that offers a satisfying punch, it is clearly an object that no users would ever misunderstand how to use it.  On top of this, the muji stapler is also compactable, making it easy for storage. The clean, sleek outlook of the muji stapler displays values of honesty and simplicity. All in all, I believe that supernormal designs like this, will go a long way to be the most beautiful design.

The second object that i choose is a clamshell packaging as shown below.

As a user, for as long as I can remember, I often encounter problem when it comes to opening a clamshell packaging. First of all, the hard plastic cover is way too tough to be opened with bare hands. Hence, users would definitely require sharp tools like a pair of scissors to assist in the opening of the plastic cover. (Ironically, there are times when the object inside the clamshell packaging is a pair of scissors) Most of the time, one would notice that even with the help of the sharp tools, it would still take a great amount of tedious effort to cut the tough plastic cover. Once the user has successfully managed to cut the plastic cover apart, the next issue face is when one tries to retrieve the object out from the vacuum-packed “enclosure” within the plastic cover. This process not only requires a considerably large amount of effort and time, sometimes, it might even be rather “hazardous” as the sharp ends of the tough plastic cover could cut the user’s hands. Therefore, for many reasons, I think that the clamshell packaging is a bad design. In order to resolve this issue, I would probably suggest in the change of material. Instead of using a tough plastic material like the conventional ones, it would be better if it is replaced with “softer” plastic types or even rubber. This would make it easier for users to open the packaging. Alternatively, I notice there is clamshell packaging in the market that includes a “clip” at the opening, which is a considerably good solution too. Ultimately, while the primitive function of a packaging is to protect its content, it is also important that the user is able to unwrap it easily too.

 

 

The human mind is exquisitely tailored to make sense of the world. A good design is able to let users gain an immediate understanding to it. I find the point about “visible clues” that Norman mentioned in the reading exceptionally interesting as these are little details in our everyday lives around us that we fail to notice.

The door example highlighted is indeed a good example, if not, often relatable to us. For the most part, users would go through the need for trial and error (push or pull) first, before figuring out the correct way of opening the door. This “obstacle” is so commonly faced by us, the users, so much so that we have forgotten that this confusion between pull and push is a design issue. One thing I noticed is the attempt to improve this confusion through the use of instructions or signs that indicate “push” or “pull”, located near the handle of the door. However, most often than not, users would naturally gone through the fair bit of “trial and error” of pushing or pulling the door before noticing the signs to open the door correctly. This renders ineffectiveness in visibility of design as the intended actions and actual actions do not coincide.

Therefore, with regards to the above issue, the author brought up a meaningful point about the psychology of materials and things. This shows that as human mind perceived the things we are familiar with, it is thus effective for us, designers, to make use of such psychological effects on our designs. The relationship between the controls and actions should be apparent to the user. Hence, natural mapping is crucial in taking advantage of physical analogies and cultural standards to create immediate understanding.

With that being said, I find it rather interesting how cultural standards plays a part in natural mapping as well. While the human race is deemed as “one” as we all operate with the same mechanism, the differences in cultures amongst us do affect the way we behave and react to certain objects. Hence, I think that as a designer, taking into consideration of cultural needs has taken a rather important aspect of design.

Next in point, the author mentions how when the number of functions and required operations exceeds the number of controls, the design becomes arbitrary, unnatural and complicated. The same technology that simplifies life by providing more functions in each device also complicates life by making the device harder to learn, harder to use. This is known as the paradox of technology and only with clever design, they can be minimized. I strongly agree with the author about the paradox of technology. I think that a good design constitutes striking a good balance with the use of technology. One good example of design that has achieved this is none other than the smartphone. Despite the countless amount of functions made possible thanks to the help of advanced technology, the design of smartphones is made so intuitive and user friendly. One no longer needs a manual to know how to operate their new smartphones anymore. It is thus exciting to see how humans have evolved together with technology as it advances over time and in the future ahead.

 

Qn 1 : Will paradox of technology ever be fully eliminated with purely good designs only? Or do the users play a bigger role?

Qn 2: Does cultural standard plays a big part in natural mapping?