The utilitarian Design vs Aesthetics:
Norman,“Emotion & Design: Attractive things work better”
Her Code Got Humans on the Moon
In reflecting on Don Norman’s “Emotion & Design: Attractive Things Work Better” and the article “Her Code Got Humans on the Moon”, I’ve gained a deeper appreciation for the role of user-centered design, particularly in high-stakes environments. Norman’s insights on emotional engagement in design highlight how well-designed, intuitive products improve user experience, functionality, and even safety. This principle aligns with Margaret Hamilton’s story in the article, where her recommendation to include a warning note in the Apollo software was initially dismissed but could have prevented a critical error that later occurred.
Both Norman and Hamilton emphasize that design must go beyond the technical requirements and account for human unpredictability. In high-stress situations—such as a lunar landing or, more broadly, any critical application—users may act differently than designers anticipate. Hamilton’s experience reflects Norman’s point about designing not only for ideal circumstances but also for scenarios where things go wrong. This reinforces the importance of creating safeguards in design to prevent errors, support users under pressure, and mitigate risks, demonstrating that effective design is as much about empathy and foresight as it is about functionality.
In reflecting on how design impacts safety and usability, an example that comes to mind is the design of fire extinguishers. While essential in emergencies, many fire extinguishers are not immediately intuitive to use, especially in high-stress situations. The sequence—pull the pin, aim the nozzle, squeeze the handle, and sweep—may seem simple, but in a crisis, it can be easy to forget steps or become disoriented, particularly for those who haven’t received training.