I have been in many classes where it is stated that simplicity is better. I agree. It is better to have a clean uncluttered interface so that users can easily navigate and find what they are looking for. Too much excess material will cause more complicated thinking. We don't want to cognitively overload users because then that would diminish good user experience and possibly take away from the product's optimal functionality.
Here comes the twist.... I have seen way too many people purchase way too many complex products. Many people think the more features or buttons, the better. Kinda like getting more for your money. Why do so many people think that way? I have known many individuals who buy the latest things with so many options yet don't even use half of them. A while ago my little brother bought a CD burner and couldn't figure out what some of the buttons did. He didn't bother to read instructions because he said they would be too complicated. So he just used his new burner for its minimal function- burn a CD. Seems like the more complicated the gadget the cooler it is to have. Or could it be that people prefer more unnecessary features because to get a product with a simple interface will make them feel less competent? I don't know. I just find it really interesting....
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3 comments:
Personally, if I can choose between a product that does A,B and C or one that does A,B,C and D, all else being equal, I'll go for the one with the extra feature.
Interface simply isn't something most people consider. They know all cell phones are difficult to use, so they might as well buy one with more features in case they can use one more feature.
Perhaps enough products ARE easy enough to use that a person simply doesn't consider ease of use when purchasing? People test drive cars, they don't typically test drive phones.
Extra features are ok as long as they don't hinder the primary function(s) of the device. Besides cell phones, I think that household appliances have a lot of additional and rarely used features; from crazy washing and drying options to microwaves that take you through 3 different menus before you can reheat some left overs.
The worst are devices that have too many bells and whistles but the quality of the performance is just horrible. The truth is, when you are spending a lot of money on a product, you are hoping to get something extra. Plus, we are vain and it feels good to be able to master a complicated interface or a device ;)
I agree with you. Simple is definitely better when it comes to products. For example, I have 3 remote controls for my TV - it's ridiculous. Whenever, any of my friends come over to watch TV or movies and they try to use the remotes they get so frustrated. I find myself always explaining what remote is for what and which buttons to click for what. I have a TIVO remote, a TV remote and a DVD remote. Crazy, huh?
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