1. 1. Simplicity and complexity play key roles in visceral design. If a product looks simple to use, it looks less cluttered and may be visually appealing to some (an iPod would be a prime example). As for complexity, if a design looks complex, some may think it is the best choice, because it has many functions. This segues into behavioral design, because if a product appears to be complex (such as having many buttons), then the user generally assumes that the product can do more/perform better. If this is perceived, the assumption is that it operates more efficiently. Therefore, a complex product in general beats a simple product in behavioral design. However, if a product appears to be too complex, simplicity would be more appealing because it is easier to use. A complex product is reflectively more appealing, because it is a symbol of status. If someone buys a digital camera with an unnecessary amount of functions, it still seems to be higher quality than one with fewer functions. As a status symbol, more is better, because it gives the allusion that: a)you actually know how to work all of the settings on the device, and b)you can afford top scale goods (the more complex, the more expensive).
2. 2. "Upon reflecting on several technological purchases made over the years, I can say without trepidation that the determining factors in many of these purchases centered on whichever device was most complex and feature-rich."
- Javin
“For example the telephone and the refrigerator, they are designs invented many years ago, but they always need a boost, or an upgrade to make it look more modern, and because of the fact that it consistently needs to be remodeled, many designers try to make it more interesting by adding more functions to the designs and make it look like "a perfect thing".
-Maureen
I chose these quotes from Javin and Maureen because I thought that they both combined to make a point that the more function and complexity a product has, the more desirable it is to consumers. Maureen backs up Javin’s statement when she says that certain basic inventions have been remodeled over the years to make them appear more modern, and to keep up with technology. She states that “many designers try to make it more interesting by adding functions.” This is something I have noticed in the market. It seems as though the more function a product has, the more success it will see. Although the complexity is unnecessary (a microwave is a microwave…you don’t need special buttons telling you automatically how long popcorn will take), it serves the purpose of easing the user’s mind. If a product has these options, its usability is far more flexible, and gives the user maximum control. Javin and Maureen’s observations show that complexity, in general, is a key component of success in the market, no matter how often the public complains and says otherwise.
No comments:
Post a Comment