Iterature Review Ondieter Rams: 10 Principles of Good Design Essay Example

design whether it serves one consumer or millions. The key factor is having a specific goal that meets the user's needs in mind. This cycle shows how good design ultimately enhances the usefulness of a product. For example, when creating an infographic, the priority is transforming dull information into visuals that aid audience comprehension. If this objective is achieved, the audience will find the design valuable (Scarred, 2009). Aesthetics play an important role in design and cannot be ignored. Infographics must be visually appealing and trendy while fulfilling their purpose; otherwise they are perceived as poorly designed by the audience despite attracting attention without providing any useful informationConsideration of all aspects of design, including form, function, and fit, is crucial. Neglecting any one perspective does not mean it was overlooked in the overall consideration process. Aesthetics play a vital role in design according to designer Paul Rand.

A lack of aesthetic qualities in a design can lead to repetition or an excessive focus on novelty without substance. This is important for graphic designers, as well as businesspeople and individuals. Psychological studies have shown that aesthetics affect emotions and decision-making related to products or services. When meaningful art is incorporated into a design, it serves as a problem-solving tool and effectively communicates with the intended audience (Clansman, 2010). People are often attracted to visually pleasing things and may perceive them as more user-friendly. Struck coffee demonstrates this phenomenon by attracting customers over the years with its beautiful interiors despite not offering the highest quality coffee (Rene, 2008).

The understandability of a design greatly impacts its functionality. Rams emphasizes the importance of designs being "self-explanatory" and intuitive for users.

Intuitive designs allow for quick comprehension and efficient usage while unintuitive designs lead to frustration and decreased productivity (Spool, 2005).Although good design typically aims to be easily understandable, there are instances where intentionally creating a system that is not easily comprehensible serves a purpose. Amazon deliberately designed their customer service calling process in a way that is unintuitive in order to encourage customers to explore alternative solutions, such as email (Spool, 2005). According to Spool's studies, users struggle to find a phone number for Amazon's customer service center. This deliberate poor design can actually benefit the business by directing users towards a better-designed system that has received more resources.

Good design is characterized by being unobtrusive and allowing products to effectively serve their purpose without unnecessary decorations or artistic distractions (Richard, 2009). Richard emphasizes the importance of neutral and restrained designs that leave room for the user's self-expression. This principle can be applied differently depending on the specific function or purpose of the designs.

However, not all designs need to be unobtrusive; there must be a balance between being unobtrusive and capturing attention. For instance, in advertising, where the goal is to convey a message or create awareness, designs should be noticeable and grab the target audience's attention. When time is limited in quick consumer interactions, the design must be attention-grabbing and straightforward in conveying the message. In driving situations, unfamiliar signs are quickly processed to determine if action is necessary.
The same concept applies to interior design, where the focus should be on including only what is necessary for the consumer's needs. Similarly, product designs should aim to be unobtrusive and user-friendly. An example of good design

that establishes trust between a brand and consumers can be seen in Apple Inc.'s clean and intuitive designs for their iPad and iPhone. The longevity of a brand relies on accurately meeting consumer expectations. While popular designs may leave a lasting impact, they are not always synonymous with good design. Longevity should not just be measured in years, but also by the lasting impression it has on people's minds.

For good design, attention to detail is crucial as every aspect matters. Designers must consider the purpose of each element such as color, font size, visual images, and logos to avoid any conflicts or clashes. Ensuring readability and clarity becomes a priority in order to achieve universal understanding.

When examining product design, we can take the Mac mouse as an example. It prioritizes ergonomics by providing comfortable hand placement and easy access to the scrolling tool using the middle finger. Additionally, a product's design greatly influences how users interact with it.When designing interior spaces, it is important to consider factors such as lighting, distance, materials, and colors that cater specifically to each space's living purposes and conditions for its users. Similar to any other design process, paying attention to details that cater to the audience or user is crucial. The distinction between good design and great design lies in the extra consideration given. Good designs efficiently serve consumer needs and effectively fulfill their purpose while also being environmentally friendly by preserving resources and reducing pollution throughout a product's lifespan.

In today's world, there is an increasing focus on saving the earth due to global warming. This has led more people to adopt environmentally friendly practices. Using these products not

only gives users a sense of making a positive contribution to the environment but also enhances their appreciation for the design.

However, being environmentally friendly alone may only appeal to a small portion of society; therefore, good design aims to incorporate minimalism without compromising functionality. There is an argument that psychedelic and minimalist designs can serve the same purpose when executed effectively.

Personally, I believe that good design doesn't have to strictly adhere to minimalism; even a minimalist design can be considered good if it achieves its intended effect. For example, using black and white colors in a weeping design can achieve simplicity and cleanliness.