There's Not an App for That

Chapter 10

Problem 3

From Clinical to Clutter

Abstract

This Problem chapter, and the two Opportunity chapters that follow, explore the benefit of supporting clutter in mobile interaction. We argue for designs that are less rigid, allowing for messiness and creative, personal expression. We also look at how experimentation and uncertainty can free users from their reliance on their devices, and in the process enhance the user experience.

Keywords

clutter; mess; uncertainty; flexibility

What’s the Problem?

The apps that we use are neatly designed, efficient at what they do, and quickly lead us through our daily tasks. But, in accepting an efficiency-led approach to mobile user experience, are we removing the “spice of life”—its messiness, ambiguity, and ...