Wilson Miner - When We Build (Due Date: 1/27)
The idea that “the only intuitive interface is the nipple” really hit me because it made me realize how much of what we think is obvious is actually learned. It got me thinking about how designers assume we all know certain things, even as tech changes so quickly. I totally agree that the tools we create shape us just as much as we shape them, especially when it comes to how screens are taking over our lives. We spend so much time in digital spaces, so the stuff we design really matters. But I’m not totally on board with the idea that designers have full control over what gets built—corporate interests, government rules, and tech limitations are huge factors too. I’m also curious about how designers can make digital environments that grow in a way that feels more natural and meaningful, rather than just fighting for our attention all the time. Lastly, towards the end of the video where he mentions “we get to put a dent in the universe” made me think is that necessarily a good thing? Or could it be a bad thing?
Figma - Welcome to design systems (Due Date: 2/03)
https://youtu.be/YLo6g58vUm0?si=I1zfCUoBwsbVF7Bt
Designers either love or dislike design systems. I personally haven’t experienced with design systems too much or at-least not on a big scale. We had one project last semester where we had to make a design system for a streaming service but it was a really small design system. Not something new, but one thing I never thought about that was mentioned in the video was using a combination of your own custom design system with an already existing design system. This is probably super helpful if you’re not well versed about design systems. Also, might speed things up a bit. One thing that I agree with is that the audience are the ones who will be using our design systems. Once again just like when we are designing we have to focus on human centered design so it is like the same thing when designing and designing design systems. Performing an audit is always a good thing but I don’t think its necessary for smaller projects where you are the only designer. A general broad question I have is… in the real working world who makes these design systems? Is it the designers themselves? Or is there a specific person who does all of it and has to communicate with the designers to make sure they are using it correctly?
Just Enough Resarch - Erika Hall UX Salon 2016 (Due Date: 2/10)
https://www.youtube.com/embed/5WtB5FRn-Sc?si=W9t8-fg3oSygpcYz
Erika Hall’s talk, Just Enough Research, introduced a few new ideas for me, especially the concept that even minimal research can have a big impact on design decisions. I always thought research had to be extensive to be useful, but her approach makes it feel more accessible.
One thing I strongly agreed with was her point about research reducing uncertainty. It makes sense that even a small amount of user research can prevent bad design decisions and help create more effective solutions.
However, I wasn’t fully convinced by the idea that research doesn’t have to take much time. While quick research is valuable, I feel like some projects really do need deeper investigation to avoid missing key details.