The Design of Everyday Things

by Don Norman

PaperbackFirst published 1988UX★★★★★ 4.0 (3 reviews)

Why read it

The classic on why doors, stoves and software confuse people, and why that is rarely the user's fault. Foundational vocabulary for any designer.

Key ideas

1. Good design makes the possible actions visible and gives clear feedback.
2. Most so-called human error is really design error.
3. Products work best when they match the mental models people bring to them.