Sunday, February 13, 2011

Journal 2

Dieter Rams: 10 Principles for good design





Don Norman on 3 ways good design makes you :]
http://www.ted.com/talks/don_norman_on_design_and_emotion.html

What is beauty about? And pretty, and emotions
Most successful design is beautiful, functional and reflective...can you tell stories about it?

Uses the example that Google uses multiple O's in their search results. This is a subtle design solution, many won't even notice it. 

One of the most powerful things Don said was.....pleasant things work better!

Humans have a visceral level of processing....it is the subconscious level.
We have adapted through biology to like bright colors, dislike bitter taste, scolding voices and loud sounds, etc.
------you can make choices in design that correspond with this visceral level of processing

There are some things that we buy not for the actual functional but instead for the way they look, and use them for a different purpose than they are intended for

The middle level of processing is called the behavioral level. It is also subconscious, and Don points out that actually most of what we do is subconscious. Behavioral design is all about feeling in control, which includes usability and understanding of the product. 

The third level of processing Don discusses is the reflective level. It is that "little voice" in your head that is watching over everything. He uses the example of the Hummer and an expensive watch, which you buy in order to impress people, not because it performs better. 


Question for Don: How has your understanding of design evolved to where you now view it in this way? Has the relationship between beauty and functionality changed what you believe is "good design"?

Tuesday, January 25, 2011

Inspirational Bookcovers

So, what is it that makes a successful bookjacket? 


I LOVE the typography in this example. (except the 
70 in the corner). 




The bold silhouette is contrasted by the loose text 
and textured background. Although I do not agree with the
placement of all of the text, the composition works well.





I appreciate this cover for its simplicity. Overall, I think it has a 
very soft and sophisticated look. The use of typography is 
interesting and incorporates imagery. The color of the background
allows for the text and image to stand out most.