Design Meets Disability
Reading opens up with the example of a leg splint, and how contrary to the ‘trickle-down’ effect, we have the design for a small segment or portion of the community being inducted into the mainstream industry. The argument is made surrounding the example of prosthetics or aids for differently abled people, which are designed to camouflage and blend in, as if it is a shame to use them in the first place. The reading discusses how there is a tension between the two concepts of presentation and concealment, and how it is difficult to provide both. Solid examples such as eyewear are provided where “from medical necessity into key fashion accessory” the transition was made, despite entities like the NHS opting for transparent frames to make it less noticeable.
The case of hearing aids and game-changer HearWear was also made. Throughout the reading, the emphasis was put on the concept of design, and how the effort and energy put into it is crucial to the performance of the product. An instance of this can be the example of prosthetics, which, being different in nature as they are an extension of one’s body part, are designed in a way to be both functional and socially pleasing. However, the designing element when it comes to looks and feel is not credited enough, and people behind such are snubbed. Now, the author doesn’t use the word “ snub” directly, but personally it can be agreed that this area or line of work isn’t commended much. Although, this isn’t the case all of the time. The case of the iPod differs. With its small design and portability, it not only revolutionized the tech industry in terms of its performance but also set a bar when it came to design and aesthetics – gathering different accolades and awards in this segment.
After having read, it was imperative to draw a connection with a similar concept discussed in the previous reading, on how the design aesthetics make even the most complicated systems in terms of their operability, appear to be perceived as easy to work with thanks to their design and interactivity component. However, it is also the case that sometimes, in certain cases, the functionality and usability are sacrificed to what the eye truly beholds as worthwhile, whereas the mind deems it to be a misfit. As mentioned in the reading ‘Attractive Things Work Better’, objects like impossible teapots stand out in terms of fashion/decorative statement, but lack usefulness. Personally, I believe that through the outward statement made by products such as hearing aids, the public perception towards differently abled can be neutralized. Instead of miniturizing aids to reduce visibility and lose out on functional efficiency due to small size, why not give up concealment and improve the usefulness? I certainly believe that design and engineering both go hand-in-hand. Like peanut butter and jelly inside of a sandwich. Therefore, being a crucial component, concealment in such cases should be dealt with the idea of ‘presentation’.
However, I also believe that exaggeration in terms of design should be avoided. In the pursuit of making a fashion statement, the redundancy and unnecessary patterns can be introduced. Therefore, it is equally important to attain equilibrium between the adequate design and functionality.