The Messy Middle: Simplicity via Complexity
A talk by Stewart Dean
This talk is about how the best way to simplify any system is to deal with the ‘messy middle’. It uses real world examples as well as system theory to make an argument against designing from the surface down.
Systems can get complicated. From ecommerce websites to the most used TV interface in the UK I have experienced many systems failing to deliver the best User Experience due to no one being willing to deal with the messy middle of the project. By focusing only on the surface or a problem software and websites are often redesigned many times but never truly improved.
Before I was used the term User Experience in my role description I was a Information Architect. In many ways I still am. This role made me appreciate the need to explore all the parts of a system and understand how they interact in order to best deliver something that is simple and effective.
I will look at System Theory and cover concepts like emergence, use real world case studies both in terms of User Experience and also borrowing examples outside of software. This talk is triggered by the amounts of UX roles which focus upon User Interface and Visual Design with little thought to the overall User Experience. It will a passionate battle cry for us to seek simplicity via complexity.
Stewart Dean
Stewart Dean completed a degree in Interactive System Design in 1995 and started off by building websites for films. He now works as a UX contractor in London working with well known companies such as Sky, Harvey Nichols and Pearson. He has created digital products and services for TV screens, desktop and mobile devices using a tool kit plundered from 18 years in the industry. He is an old dog that is very keen to learn new tricks.
