In the first reading by Norman, “Emotion & Design: Attractive things work better,” I found his exploration of the emotional aspect of design very interesting. Indeed, good design isn’t just about aesthetics or functionality; it’s also about how we feel when interacting with the product. Norman’s emphasis on the importance of considering users’ emotions and needs, particularly in high-stress situations, highlighted the human-centered nature of design. I particularly appreciated his vision for the future: “Let the future of everyday things be ones that do their job, that are easy to use, and that provide enjoyment and pleasure”. This statement is a good reminder of how important the design itself is depending on the emotion and the situation in which the user is under and what kind of experience we, as developers, want to give the users.
The second reading, “Her Code Got Humans on the Moon,” further illustrated the idea that “we should not solely rely on users when designing technology.” Users can sometimes behave unpredictably, especially in high-pressure contexts like space missions. The story of Margaret Hamilton serves as a compelling example of how careful and well-planned design is vital for the success and reliability of complex systems. This reading reinforced my belief in the importance of meticulous design and efficient code to create technology that is not only robust but also user-friendly. It also highlights the need for proactive problem-solving and consideration of user behavior to achieve success in complex projects.