The Design of Everyday Things

Discuss three factors hindering designers from practicing HCD. Why is there a gap between theory and practice? How could these gaps be resolved?

Discuss the seven fundamental design principles in relation to the seven stages of action. Do you agree with these principles and stages? Which principles or stages, if any, would you add to the process?

What is the difference between “knowledge in the head” and “knowledge in the world?” How do designers employ each to guide product usage? How would you navigate both types of knowledge as a designer?

Norman argues that the design process should be multidisciplinary. Do you agree or disagree? What would a multidisciplinary process look like?

Analyze the four types of constraints. Why are they central to HCD? How can they be overcome? What other constraints might exist that Norman does not address?

How does Norman categorize different types of errors? What can companies do to encourage employees to report errors? How might this information be used to improve products?

Describe the Double Diamond model of design in relation to the human-centered design process. Do you believe this model is effective? Why or why not?

Citing examples, describe the two types of innovation. Why are both necessary for advancement? What can be done to encourage innovation in design?