If people keep buying poorly designed products, manufacturers and designers will think they are doing the right thing and continue as usual.
Donald A. NormanRead
Complexity is acceptable as long as it is intelligible and necessary. We want to avoid needless complications.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Complexity is okay if it's understandable and necessary, but we should avoid unnecessary complications.
This quote emphasizes the importance of balance in design and problem-solving, suggesting that while complexity is sometimes needed for functionality, it should not obscure understanding or add unnecessary hurdles. The goal is to keep things clear and purposeful, rather than overcomplicating matters without cause.
Themes
ComplexitySimplicityUnderstandingDesignPurpose
In practice
Example use cases
In a presentation on design principles, one might quote this to highlight the need for clarity in complex systems.
More from Donald A. Norman
All quotes →Also note that invariably when we design something that can be used by those with disabilities, we often make it better for everyone
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When you have trouble with things—whether it's figuring out whether to push or pull a door or the arbitrary vagaries of the modern computer and electronics industries—it's not your fault. Don't blame yourself: blame the designer.
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Products were once designed for the functions they performed. But when all companies can make products that perform their functions equally well, the distinctive advantage goes to those who provide pleasure and enjoyment while maintaining the power. If functions are equated with cognition, pleasure is equated with emotion; today we want products that appeal to both cognition and emotion.
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The hardest part of design ... is keeping features out.
Donald A. NormanRead
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