Make it Simple looks at the growing complexity of computer software and hardware. If you want to get the high level overview of what Don Norman was talking about in The Invisible Computer or the late Michael Dertouzos’s The Unfinished Revolution. There is lots of discussion about the effect that complexity has on software projects and businesses in general. Unfortunately, the article lacks the detailed understanding provided by either Norman or Dertouzous about the business causes and support for complexity. To better understand the phenomena of feature-driven technology over user-centered technology check out Chapter 2 of the Invisble Computer, where Don Norman decribes how as technology consumers, we continue to reward technologies for these decisions.
- Finishing the Unfinished Revolution by Michael Dertouzous