Clarifying design

A lot of people incorrectly assume that design is simply making things look pretty. A nice thing to have, sure, but unnecessary.

Designers, on the other hand, will tell you something else: that (great) design isthe product. That if it’s not easy to use and if it doesn’t look good, no one is going to want to use it.

Certainly, form follows function. Practicality always super-seeds ornamentation. But ‘no design’ for the sake of utility is a mistake.

Poorly designed (yet useful) products are by their very nature impractical. They’re either embarrassingly difficult to use, or frustrating, usually both.

The world isn’t so black and white that usability and tasteful aesthetics don’t matter. They do, more than ever.

Without a doubt: Design isn’t gift wrap. Design is the merchandise.