Video Reflections

David Kelley: Human Centred Design

David Kelley’s video enlightened me as to new perspectives in involving humans in the process and interaction with marketed designer products. The recent additions to the design process of integrating behavioural aspects and personalities into modern products introduces what Kelley refers to as the “man-machine relationship”. There is more potential to a product than simply creating it and putting it to use, by use of human centred design designers are now able to stimulate affection from the user to the product, create an interest and basically customize a product to a target market. The fresh versatility in the designer’s job also involves them more into the business and marketing aspect rather than just basic decision making directly relating to the product and its functions.

The video struck me as being important as the various examples Kelley demonstrates to us explore the true nature of human centred design, and have allowed me to develop a more profound understanding on this concept. For example the famous Italian fashion label Prada, New York, a retail store wanted to explore technological advancements and integrate it more into the consumers involvement when choosing, trying on and learning about the products. A team of designers reworked the store into a high tech modern facility in which the dressing rooms boasted liquid crystal glass which could transform from opaque to translucent at the flick of a switch. This allowed the user to try on clothes and immediately receive comments and criticisms on them. Multiple screens in place of mirrors allowed the placement of a delayed screen, which allows a proper view of the back of the clothing. The addition of a scanner and screen allows the user to electronically track the products and interact with them for information. These creative revolutions to clothing stores demonstrate the implementation of human centred design in the sense that the ergonomics of a traditional clothing store have been changed in order better meet the needs of the consumers and in a way heighten the experience of shopping and knowing what you want. In this way, efficiency and celebrating technology everyday made shopping for clothes more enjoyable and interactive for the user.

A fun addition to a designers take on reworking an office working cubicle was a flower in a case that wilted in disappointment as the user leaves the room, and perks up in happiness as the user returns. This enlightened me as I had often assumed the use of novelty style products and humour being detrimental to a products success. The humour makes the user feel as though the user is wanted in the cubicle and brings life and potential to the room.

Kelley’s TED video explored new ways to make products more interactive for the user which I feel all designers should understand in order to bring personality to future products. I learnt that humour, when used well can be in fact a bonus to a mood lightening design, and that making the users experience in interacting with the product more intimate allows for a more satisfied and informed consumer.

http://www.ted.com/talks/lang/eng/david_kelley_on_human_centered_design.html