Over the last decade, there have been numerous hacks which resulted in millions of peoples' personal data being compromised. In June 2015, United States Office of Personnel Management announced that it had been the target of a data breach targeting personnel records. During that hack, my name, birth date, social security number and more were... Continue Reading →
The 10 Principles of Good Design
Gone are the days of home cooking, timeliness fashion, and handcrafted tables. The modern world is instead saturated with fast food, trendy clothing, and build-it-yourself plywood furniture. People buy what's cheap and convenient, gradually filling their homes with poorly-built junk. Everywhere we look, there are too many unnecessary things. I'm currently taking a online course... Continue Reading →
Everyday Design
In his latest blog post, Seth Godin discusses the triumph of everyday design, arguing that simplicity is often superior to luxury when it comes to function and usability. That sink with an intricate, motion-sensing faucet is more difficult to turn on and more likely to make a mess than the standard model. Luxury goods used to... Continue Reading →
Why You Should Make Useless Things
When I was ten years old, my family took a trip to Denver, Colorado. One evening, my mom kissed me on the forehead and told me she would be speaking at a seminar. I inhaled the sweet scent of her perfume as she handed me a large science kit and told me to have fun... Continue Reading →
Disability-Minded Design
Before my cousin passed away, his arm was amputated and he was left to figure out creative ways to approach his old habits and hobbies. He quickly figured how to manipulate his video game controller with his toes, and soon thereafter discovered a one-handed game controller, which offered continuity--an opportunity to enjoy his favorite video games under... Continue Reading →
Built to Break
My parents still have the same kitchen appliances they received as wedding gifts 35 years ago. The toaster, waffle iron and popcorn popper are still perfectly functional despite faded logos. Contrast this to the toaster and clothes iron I bought when I moved into my first apartment, which each lasted approximately two years. Things are... Continue Reading →