This abstract reflects on Don Norman's book "Design for a Better World" and its profound impact on the author's perspective on design and usability. Initially, the author's concept of usability revolved around software, emphasizing the 5Es criteria. However, a transformative experience at an inadequately designed metro station in Athens triggered a realization that emotions play a crucial role in design decisions. This revelation led to an attempt to apply the 5Es method to evaluate the usability of complex systems, like metro stations. Don Norman's book provided validation and motivation, urging designers to address pressing global issues through meaningful, sustainable, and humanity-centered design. Norman's work prompts a reconsideration of design's impact on people, society, and the environment, emphasizing the importance of sustainability, ethics, inclusivity, and the interconnectedness of design within larger ecosystems. It encourages designers to wield their power responsibly, fostering a more equitable, compassionate, and sustainable world. Norman's book serves as a call to action for designers to embrace a broader role beyond aesthetics and functionality.
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Reflections on Don Norman’s “Design for a better world”