Interaction design, as defined by the text, states that it is “a human-centered field and the creation of a framework in which to experience [designs] (pp. 6-7). The text states that design is influenced by “the individual designer’s world view” (Kolko & Connors, 2010, p. 100). However, I believe this can go both ways. Design can be influenced by others, but can also have an impact and influence on others. Either way, interaction is used in all parts of a design, whether just explaining a concept to another person, finding out a client’s needs, or making the product appeal to the consumer.
The text mentions that art and design are very much a part of communication, especially in terms of technology (p. 100). In my life, I’ve realized that communication can have many outcomes, but cannot always convey our message accurately. Therefore, messages are often misinterpreted. Messaging through a text message or social media can pose a challenge. A message can easily be misinterpreted because tone cannot be read or seen through body language when communicating through words.
I feel this will be a challenge in my career path in graphic design and advertising. Not all graphics include a picture or other visual aid. It is essential to design for others to have an understanding of the design, but the message must be understood through only colors, words, and shapes. As designers, it is important to remember that we influence the way people view and think about their experiences throughout life. Semiotics, the study of signs (both physical and conceptual) can help with recognizing these needs (p. 103). However, these needs can also relate to aesthetics and hooking the senses, as senses heighten your awareness (p.104).
It is important to remember that once the product is released to the consumer, it is out of your control how they experience and think of it. This can be scary for a designer because interaction design has a start and an end and therefore ignores interaction with the consumer afterward (pp. 108-109). This makes it especially important to be mindful of the time you have with the client and also the amount of time you have to work on a project. Also, I feel interaction design is about taking our understanding of both our current and future environment and creating something that will still be needed in the future.
Reference
Kolko, J., & Connors, C. (2010). Thoughts on interaction design: a collection of reflections. Burlington (MA): Morgan Kaufmann Publishers, an imprint of Elsevier.