Why Are Things So Hard To Use?

Why Are Things So Hard To Use?: Learning From Design Failures explores the often-overlooked lessons hidden in poorly designed interfaces. While good design tends to go unnoticed, bad design leaves a lasting impression, frustrating users and highlighting what not to do.

Written in an engaging, first-person style, this book challenges UI/UX designers to rethink their approach by examining the critical role of failed designs in shaping better, more intuitive interfaces. Through ten distinct categories of design failures, such as neglecting user capabilities or failing to communicate effectively, the book provides real-world examples that are insightful and easy to grasp. With over 100 pictorial examples of design missteps and more than 40 examples of exceptional design, readers will gain a clear understanding of what works and what does not. The book addresses the challenges posed by emerging technologies like AI and voice interfaces, offering actionable recommendations to help designers create interfaces that truly meet user needs and lead them on a path to better design.

This book is ideal for professionals in human factors and UI/UX design as well as students of these fields.