3 Ways Good Design Makes You Happy – Don Norman

This short talk by Don Norman is wonderful for two particular reasons. First, he is actually delighted by things. He lacks the youthful, urgent uncertainty that tries to analyze and parry. He’s at the point where he’s aware of what he knows for sure and can find joy in learning about the things he doesn’t understand just yet.

Second, I think it’s especially easy to forget just what we’re all trying to do here. Namely, to improve the lives of a few people and make online interactions more elegant and straightforward for the rest.

I won’t get into whether beauty is a use in itself or not, but I’m certain that we could all use more happiness. Norman added a bit of the stuff to my day. I hope you find his presentation enjoyable as well!

Thanks to @joshuacc for the heads up on the video & Jordan Fischer for the thumbnail.

February 28, 2010