design

Life as an open source designer - part 1

Posted Wed, 02/11/2009 - 22:11 by jnoyes

I find this screenshot rather telling. Its of an IRC chat room used to gather and talk about ways to improve Drupal. In this chat, Yoroy, an active contributor, is talking about a design that's been in the works for several months now, and is starting to change direction. I can't be sure, but I'm hoping he's rallying the troops to weigh in so that the design stays on track. This reminds me of a situation that used to take place at Fidelity Investments

An exploration of Experience Design

Posted Wed, 02/11/2009 - 21:43 by jnoyes

I stumbled on a great exploration of experience design. I don't personally know Braz, but I identify with his approach.

When you design an experience on the web or mobile, do you think your job is to organize visual elements in space and across different pages to convey cool features in a way people understand, use and find what they are looking for?

In my opinion, this is not enough. It sure works, and you can deliver a good experience, but to turn what’s good in something extraordinary you will rely on serendipity if you go this way.

3 Ways to Achieve Good Design

Posted Wed, 02/11/2009 - 21:34 by jnoyes

Jared Spool recently wrote about the three patterns that are found in companies creating great experiences.

1. Understand the purpose of vision. Everyone in the company should know the experience five years out.
2. Listen to and/or observe your user base at least two hours every six weeks.
3. Reward Failure. Failure equals opportunity to improve.

I recommend this article to anyone looking to foster an experience group.