In 'Design for Real Life', Eric A. Meyer and Sara Wachter-Boettcher challenge the traditional notions of design by highlighting how digital products impact users' lives beyond the screen. They delve into the complexities of real-world scenarios, emphasizing the importance of empathy and inclusivity in design processes. Through compelling case studies and practical advice, the authors reveal a transformative approach that prioritizes human experiences. This book invites designers to anticipate the unexpected challenges that users might face. Can design truly support and uplift those navigating tough situations in life?
By Eric A. Meyer, Sara Wachter-Boettcher
Published: 2016
"Design is not just about making things look good; it's about making them work for real people in real situations."
You can't always predict who will use your products, or what emotional state they'll be in when they do. But by identifying stress cases and designing with compassion, you'll create experiences that support more of your users, more of the time.--Back cover.
Showing 8 of 20 similar books
Kevin Rose is a notable entrepreneur and technology investor, best known for founding Digg, a pioneering social news website that significantly influenced online content sharing. Although not primarily recognized for literary contributions, Rose has impacted digital media and online culture, which are recurring themes in contemporary literature on technology. His insights and experiences have been featured in various tech journals and books, enriching discussions on innovation and digital entrepreneurship. Rose also co-hosted the popular podcast "The Random Show" with Tim Ferriss, where he shares his thoughts on technology, health, and productivity. Through his ventures and public speaking, Rose continues to inspire narratives around the digital revolution and startup culture.
Steve Jobs was an American entrepreneur, inventor, and co-founder of Apple Inc., known for revolutionizing the personal computing, music, and smartphone industries. Jobs’ vision for technology was focused on simplicity, innovation, and user experience, leading to the development of iconic products like the Macintosh, iPod, iPhone, and iPad. He also co-founded Pixar Animation Studios, which became one of the most successful animation companies in the world. Jobs’ influence extended beyond technology, shaping the way people interact with media, communication, and design. His legacy as a visionary leader and innovator continues to impact industries around the globe.
Jan Losert is a visionary author and digital design expert, renowned for his contributions to the intersection of technology and creativity. His most significant work includes co-authoring "Design Systems Handbook," which has become a seminal guide for creating cohesive and efficient design frameworks. Losert's expertise extends to his role as a speaker and educator, where he passionately shares his insights on user experience and interface design. In addition to his literary achievements, he co-founded several successful startups, leveraging his deep understanding of design to drive innovation. His work continues to influence and inspire both emerging and established designers worldwide.
John Maeda is a designer, technologist, and thought leader known for his work at the intersection of technology, design, and leadership. A former president of the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD), Maeda has been a strong advocate for integrating art and design with technology to drive innovation. He is currently the Chief Technology Officer at Everbridge and has previously held leadership roles at Automattic (the parent company of WordPress) and KPCB, a venture capital firm. Maeda’s work explores the role of creativity in technology, and he is known for his insightful talks and books, including The Laws of Simplicity and Redesigning Leadership. He has been instrumental in promoting the idea of “design thinking” in business and has influenced a generation of designers and technologists to approach problem-solving with creativity. Maeda is also a prolific speaker, frequently sharing his ideas on the future of design and its role in shaping the modern world.
Cleo Abram is a distinguished journalist and content creator known for her incisive storytelling and engaging multimedia presentations. She gained widespread recognition as a producer and host for Vox's acclaimed series, "Glad You Asked," where she explored complex topics with clarity and depth. Abram's work often intersects with technology and culture, making intricate subjects accessible to a broad audience. In addition to her journalistic endeavors, she has contributed thought-provoking essays and articles to various esteemed publications. Her innovative approach to storytelling continues to influence and inspire both readers and aspiring journalists.
Ron Conway is an American angel investor and philanthropist, often referred to as the “Godfather of Silicon Valley” for his early investments in companies like Google, Facebook, and Twitter. As the founder of SV Angel, Conway has backed hundreds of startups and played a key role in the growth of the tech industry. He is known for his extensive network and ability to connect entrepreneurs with the resources they need to succeed. In addition to his work in tech, Conway is involved in philanthropy, particularly in areas like education and public health. His contributions to both Silicon Valley and charitable causes have earned him widespread recognition.
Andy Budd is a renowned author and user experience (UX) designer, best known for his influential work in the field of web design. He co-authored "CSS Mastery: Advanced Web Standards Solutions," which has become a seminal text for web developers worldwide. As a founding partner of the consulting firm Clearleft, Budd has made significant contributions to advancing UX design practices. He is also a sought-after speaker at design conferences and an active advocate for the design community. Through his writing and leadership, Budd continues to shape the future of digital design.
Andrew Chen is a venture capitalist, entrepreneur, and thought leader in growth marketing, currently serving as a general partner at Andreessen Horowitz. Chen is known for his expertise in network effects, viral growth strategies, and marketplace dynamics, making him a sought-after advisor for startups looking to scale. Prior to joining Andreessen Horowitz, he worked in leadership roles at Uber, helping to grow the ride-sharing platform’s user base and develop key growth strategies. Chen is also a prolific writer, sharing his insights on growth, technology, and startups through his popular blog and newsletter, which has attracted a loyal following in the tech community. His work has helped shape how many startups approach user acquisition, retention, and product-market fit. As a venture capitalist, Chen focuses on early-stage companies in the consumer internet, SaaS, and marketplace sectors, and he has been involved in funding and advising several successful startups. His insights on technology and growth continue to influence both founders and investors alike.
Showing 8 of 19 related collections
“Design is not just about making things look good; it's about making them work for real people in real situations.”
Design for Real Life
By Eric A. Meyer, Sara Wachter-Boettcher
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
Eric A. Meyer is a distinguished author known for his insightful contributions to the fields of technology and culture. His notable works include 'Responsive Web Design' and 'CSS: The Definitive Guide', where he explores the intersection of design and functionality in the digital landscape. Meyer's writing is characterized by its clarity, practicality, and a deep understanding of user experience, making complex subjects accessible to a wide audience. He has also been a prominent speaker at industry conferences, sharing his expertise in web standards and accessibility.
Sara Wachter-Boettcher is an accomplished author and editor known for her insightful perspectives on content strategy, design, and user experience. She is the author of the critically acclaimed books 'Technical Communication' and 'Designing for Content Strategy,' which explore the intersections of digital design and information architecture. With a focus on clarity, accessibility, and creating user-centered experiences, Sara's writing style is both practical and engaging, making her a sought-after speaker and consultant in the tech industry. She advocates for inclusive design practices and the importance of understanding audience needs, contributing significantly to the dialogue on effective communication in the digital age.
Key information about the book.
Buy on Amazon
Buy via BookShopSupport local bookstores: BookShop gives a portion of each sale to independent bookshops!
In 'The Design of Everyday Things', Don Norman reveals the hidden principles behind effective design that shapes our everyday interactions. He explores the psychological underpinnings of how we perceive and interact with objects, highlighting the importance of usability and user-centered design. Through captivating examples, Norman illustrates how poor design can lead to frustration, while thoughtful design enhances our experience. This book challenges readers to rethink the functionality of everyday items, making them consider the design choices behind the objects they encounter. Ultimately, it invites us to demand better designs that cater to our needs, making the mundane extraordinary.
In '100 Things Every Designer Needs to Know about People,' Susan Weinschenk unveils essential psychological principles that can enhance design effectiveness. With insights drawn from cognitive science, the book explores how people perceive, interact with, and make decisions about design. From the nuances of color perception to the importance of empathy in user experience, Weinschenk offers practical strategies for designers. Each principle is supported by fascinating research, making the content both informative and engaging. This enlightening guide equips designers to create more intuitive and user-friendly experiences, sparking curiosity about the intersection of psychology and design.
In 'The Art of Game Design,' Jesse Schell unravels the captivating world of game development, blending theory and practical insights. He presents a unique perspective that gaming is not just a skill but an art form, exploring what truly makes games immersive and memorable. With a combination of engaging anecdotes and hands-on exercises, Schell invites readers to think like designers and embrace creativity. The book serves as a comprehensive guide, making it an essential read for aspiring game creators and enthusiasts alike. Dive into the playful intricacies of design and discover the secrets that could inspire your next game masterpiece!
No summary available
In 'The Visual Display of Quantitative Information', Edward R. Tufte revolutionizes the way we perceive data through innovative visual means. He delves into the principles of effective data visualization, revealing how powerful graphics can enhance understanding. Tufte critiques the misleading nature of ineffective charts, urging readers to appreciate clarity and precision. With stunning examples and a clear passion for design, he challenges us to rethink how we present complex information. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the intersection of art, science, and communication.
In 'Accessibility for Everyone', Laura Kalbag reveals the fundamental importance of inclusivity in design and technology. With practical tips and real-world examples, she empowers readers to embrace accessibility as a shared responsibility. Kalbag challenges common misconceptions, urging designers to consider the diverse needs of all users. This book is not just a guide; it's a call to action for creating a truly inclusive digital world. Discover how small changes can make a monumental impact on the lives of millions.
'Rules of Play' unravels the intricacies of game design, bridging the worlds of play and structure. Authors Katie Salen Tekinbas and Eric Zimmerman explore the fundamental principles that govern gameplay, offering a framework that is both innovative and accessible. Through engaging examples and thought-provoking concepts, they challenge readers to rethink what games can achieve. This book serves as a compelling guide for both budding designers and seasoned developers alike, revealing the deeper connections between play and human experience. Discover the hidden rules that transform mere amusement into a profound form of expression!
In 'Designing for People', Henry Dreyfuss lays the groundwork for human-centered design, championing the idea that products should serve people’s needs and enhance their experience. Through insightful case studies and engaging anecdotes, Dreyfuss reveals how understanding human behavior can lead to innovative and functional designs. He shares practical methods for observing and interpreting user interactions, emphasizing the importance of empathy in the design process. This book is not just a manual for designers; it's a fascinating exploration of the relationship between humans and the objects they use. Will Dreyfuss' principles inspire you to rethink the way we interact with the world?
Download our mobile app to enjoy your favorite books on the go. Get access to exclusive features, offline listening, and personalized recommendations.
