Interface Design Considered as Failure Analysis

Abstract

This paper explores some of the implications of comparing interface design with engineering design, arguing that such a comparison has typically been more misleading than fruitful. The problem, however, lies not in the comparison but in the fact that the model of engineering design most often used is an idealized one which is not representative of the actual history of the process of engineering design. When engineering design is viewed from a more realistic perspective it can be seen that design failures are both inevitable and instructive. Similarly, it can be seen that interface design, human factors, and psychology in general are very often informed more by analysis of failure than by success.