Core77

Comparing product design and websites, Godin points out the number of steps a toaster requires the user to complete in order eat. Did the designer ever stop to think about the effort?

We recently acquired what might be the worst toaster in the history of the world. It's pretty fancy and shiny and microprocessor controlled. And it makes toast.

But there's what I have to do to use it:

1. Choose the number of slices, and bagel or bread.
2. Remember whether it counts the slices from the left or the right (the left).
3. Insert the bread.
4. Push down the handle.
5. Choose toast or defrost.
6. Make sure the darkness level is right. (This doesn't count, because it usually is).
7. Press on.
8. Wait till it beeps.
9. Lift the handle I pressed in #4.
10. Turn it off.

Most toasters, of course, consist of steps 3 and 4 only.

Read the rest of his post on simplifying life for the user.