Skip to content

The designer shouldn't think of a simple dichotomy between…

“The designer shouldn't think of a simple dichotomy between errors and correct behavior; rather, the entire interaction should be treated as a cooperative endeavor between person and machine, one in which misconceptions can arise on either side.” quote by Donald A. Norman
Download Open image
“The designer shouldn't think of a simple dichotomy between errors and correct behavior; rather, the entire interaction should be treated as a cooperative endeavor between person and machine, one in which misconceptions can arise on either side.”

Donald A. Norman

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Design should be seen as a partnership where both user and system can err, requiring mutual understanding and collaboration.

In simple terms: Design is a joint effort between people and machines.

Key Takeaway

Treat interactions as cooperative problem solving.

Themes

design human‑computer interaction collaboration

Mood

thoughtful analytical

Type

practical inspirational

When to use this quote

  • software development
  • product testing
  • training
  • support
  • feedback loops

Key Concepts

co‑design error tolerance user empathy

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can we design interfaces that reveal system errors?
  • What habits foster shared responsibility?
A Different Perspective

Assuming users always know the correct way can overlook system flaws.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ No ratings yet

More by Donald A. Norman

Explore all 97 Donald A. Norman quotes

More Arise quotes

Browse all 1,703 Arise quotes