Sep 10, 2024
the story of today's products.
it's not that today's consumer tech products are broken. in fact–there are tons who are performing extremely well. but, beneath that surface level, the way today's personal devices & software are built for humans is messed up. more than 'immoral', it's fundamentally disastrous for our species in the long term. one that is starting to show it's face as more of us become hyper aware of it and fed up. the way today's products are built is this: identify a problem or market opportunity where there is more demand than supply. build a solution for the consumer niche you are targeting. get validation through purchases & growth. start to scale. as you scale, make your margins better. and better. and better. is the product getting worse, maybe. will you sacrifice that for the sake of margins and growth growth scale scale scale? yes. of course you will, and VCs will love you for it as long as there's performance. where does that lead to? enshittification.
Putting Users First, The Essence of Design
In the ever-evolving digital landscape, the mantra "user-centered design" has emerged as a guiding principle for designers worldwide. Gone are the days when aesthetics alone ruled the design realm. Today, understanding the needs, behaviors, and aspirations of users is paramount.
User-centered design is not merely a trend but a fundamental shift in perspective—a recognition that the end-user is the ultimate arbiter of success. By placing users at the heart of the design process, designers can create products and experiences that resonate deeply and deliver tangible value.
Empathy in Action, Designing with Purpose
At its core, user-centered design is about empathy—an unwavering commitment to understanding the lived experiences of users. By immersing themselves in the user's world, designers gain invaluable insights that inform every aspect of the design journey. From intuitive interfaces to seamless interactions, every element is crafted with precision and purpose.
Moreover, user-centered design fosters inclusivity, ensuring that digital solutions are accessible to all, regardless of age, ability, or background. In essence, user-centered design is not just a methodology; it's a philosophy—an ethos that drives innovation, fosters connection, and transforms lives.
