Understanding the Principles of Don Norman's Design of Everyday Things

Every day, we interact with countless objects, from door handles to smartphones. Yet, many of these objects confuse us or frustrate us because they are not designed with the user in mind. Don Norman’s Design of Everyday Things explores why some designs work well and others fail, offering timeless principles that improve usability and user experience. This post unpacks those principles and shows how they apply to the objects we use daily.

Clear door handle design showing push and pull functions

Why Good Design Matters

Design is not just about aesthetics; it’s about making things work well for people. Norman argues that many everyday objects fail because they do not communicate their function clearly. When a design is confusing, users waste time and energy figuring out how to use it, leading to frustration and errors.

For example, a door with a handle that looks like it should be pulled but actually needs to be pushed causes hesitation and awkward moments. This simple mismatch between appearance and function is a common design flaw Norman highlights. Good design should make the user’s next action obvious.

Key Principles from Design of Everyday Things

Visibility

Visibility means that the user can easily see what actions are possible. Controls and functions should be obvious without needing instructions. For instance, a stove with clearly marked knobs that correspond to burners helps users operate it without guessing.

Feedback

Feedback tells users that their actions have been recognized. When you press a button, you expect a response—like a click, a light turning on, or a sound. Without feedback, users may repeat actions unnecessarily or assume the device is broken.

Constraints

Constraints limit the ways users can interact with an object, preventing errors. For example, a USB plug can only fit one way into its port, reducing the chance of damage or frustration. Norman emphasizes designing constraints that guide users toward correct use.

Mapping

Mapping refers to the relationship between controls and their effects. Good mapping means controls are arranged logically and correspond spatially to what they affect. A car’s steering wheel turning left makes the car go left, which is a natural mapping. Poor mapping forces users to remember arbitrary connections.

Affordances

Affordances are the properties of an object that suggest how it should be used. A button invites pressing, a knob suggests turning, and a handle implies pulling. Norman stresses that designers should create strong affordances so users instinctively know what to do.

Applying Norman’s Principles in Everyday Life

Consider a microwave oven. A well-designed microwave has buttons labeled with clear functions, a door that opens easily, and a display that shows cooking time. If the buttons are confusing or the door handle is hidden, users struggle.

Another example is a smartphone. The touchscreen interface uses visual cues and feedback to guide users. Icons afford tapping, sliders afford sliding, and vibrations provide feedback. These elements follow Norman’s principles to make complex technology accessible.

Smartphone screen with clear icons and touch controls for easy navigation

Why Designers Should Care About These Principles

Ignoring these principles leads to products that frustrate users and fail in the market. Norman’s work reminds designers to focus on the user’s experience, not just the product’s features. By making objects intuitive, designers reduce errors, increase satisfaction, and create products people want to use.

For example, a poorly designed remote control with many similar buttons causes confusion. A redesign that groups buttons logically and uses clear labels improves usability dramatically. This approach saves time and reduces user frustration.