Complaining Quote by Donald A. Norman
“Forget the complaints against complexity; instead, complain about confusion.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Design of Everyday Things, 2013
Criticize confusion rather than complexity; clarity is more important than intricate design.
In simple terms: Focus on reducing confusion, not just complexity.
Key Takeaway
Prioritize clear communication.
Themes
clarity
user experience
design thinking
Mood
analytical
concerned
Type
educational
practical
When to use this quote
- product design
- UX writing
- training
- policy drafting
Key Concepts
cognitive load
information architecture
Questions to Reflect On
- How can you simplify a confusing system?
- When is complexity justified?
A Different Perspective
Complexity can be necessary for functionality.
![“Hypertext makes a virtue out of lack of organization, allowing ideas and thoughts to be juxtaposed at will. [...] The advent of hypertext is apt to make writing much more difficult, not easier. Good writing, that is.” quote by Donald A. Norman](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/662/donald-a-norman-6862_advent_hypertext-makes-a-virtue-out-of-lack-of_51804.jpg)
