The Nielsen Norman Group’s assertion that “attractive things operate better,” truly got me to consider how much design affects how we interact with products. Even before I have tried something, I usually think it will work well if it looks good. This makes me think of sleek programs like Instagram or Apple products, where the simple layout makes things seem easier to use and more pleasurable. It is intriguing how aesthetics may influence how usable something is and increase our tolerance for small imperfections. Even if a website or app functions well, I have found that when it appears busy or out-of-date, I get annoyed right away. This helps me understand that good design influences how people interact with and feel about technology, thus it is not just about appearances.
However, I believe it is critical to strike a balance between usability and aesthetics. Something does not necessarily work well just because it looks wonderful. I have used apps with stunning designs but were difficult to use, leading me to quickly give them up. This demonstrates that although beauty can improve an experience, it should not take the place of usefulness. A well-designed product should be simple to use and aesthetically pleasing. I now understand why businesses work so hard on user experience design, it is not just about making things seem good, it is also about making interactions feel seamless and pleasurable. I am now more conscious of how design affects my personal expectations and preferences when utilizing technology as a result of this reflection.