Section 1 : Universal - Ask Stupid Questions Flashcards
What are stupid questions?
Those that challenge assumptions in such a fundamental way they can make the questioner seem naive
What is framing?
the way a problem or challenge is defined and laid out by a designer who intends to try to solve it. And often, the way a problem is framed will determine the solution
What does questioning and framing require?
Observing situations or scenarios in an open, unbiased manner
What are IDEO’s Five Whys methodology?
When the company is trying to arrive at new insights, its design researchers ask Why? over and over (five times at least) in response to every answer they get
What is Paula Scher’s definition of design?
the art of planning
What are the three common threads among design definitions?
planning, purpose and intent
What is Ellen Lupton’s definition of design?
Art that people use
What is the tyranny of the visual?
An overemphasis on style rather than the problem the product addresses
What is cosmetic design and why was it important?
Aesthetic design, design strictly about the visuals, because it offered a way to take mass-produced goods that were similar to another and spiff them up so they’d stand out. It could make this year’s model seem new and improved even if it really wasn’t. And if a product was designed in a way that made it look better, you might enjoy it more and might even come to believe that it was improved
What are the 3 levels that Donald Norman says design should/could influence us?
Visceral Level, wherein we respond mostly to appearances
Behavioural Level, where usability comes into play
Reflective Level, which is tied up with issues of identity, self-worth and intellectual appeal
Which of Normans’ 3 levels is most powerful?
The reflective level, because it’s all about the image we project. People will go out of their way to buy things that fulfill and enhance that image
Which of Normans’ 3 levels is best for ‘opening the door and getting things started’
The visceral appeal
What type of shapes do we respond better to?
Smooth, curved and symmetrical designs as opposed to rough, angular, jagged or uneven shapes
What’s the inherent psychology behind a beautifully designed object?
If something is beautiful it may be easier to use. People do a better job of figuring out and using products that look good - apparently because an aesthetically pleasing object causes you to relax more as you use it and also to be more patient and more creative as you try to figure it out
Describe the design principle of ‘forgiveness’.
It helps us to avoid mistakes and recover from them easily
