Reading Norman’s chapter made me realize how often I get frustrated with specific designs, especially ones that lack efficiency in everyday objects. Norman emphasizes that good design should communicate clearly, prevent errors, and provide feedback. I see this principle in some interactive media, where the design makes it easy to use without much explanation—anyone can figure it out quickly. When something is designed well, you don’t even notice it because everything feels natural and intuitive. Unlike the examples the author mentioned, such as the sink that requires pushing down on it or the door that needs a sign to explain that it is a sliding door, good design should not require instructions. If a user has to stop and think about how to use something basic, then the design has already failed.
Something that drives me crazy is the access doors on campus. I walk around carrying two access cards—one specifically for my suite and room, and another for the rest of the campus. It feels unnecessary and inefficient. On top of that, the glass doors are extremely heavy, and the sensors do not work most of the time. Instead of making entry smooth and accessible, the design creates frustration. According to Norman’s ideas, better mapping, clearer feedback, and fewer constraints could significantly improve this experience.