I couldn’t have said this better myself, so I won’t:
- Make the user interface simple.
- Don’t emphasize “community” unless you really know what you’re doing. Most users don’t want to join a community; they want to accomplish a task. Focus on the tasks.
- Watch your users for inspiration. People won’t use the tools you provide in the way you expect. Build on their innovation.—Daniel Harrison
Hear, hear!
Smooth Harold is the official blog of Blake Snow, a freelance writer and media consultant living the good life with a wife and kids. Among other things, he is writing a book on finding offline balance in an increasingly online world. He can be reached by email.
How can I help you? No really, is there something specific I can assist you in? Ask me anything self-employed, writing, design, or life related, and I'll gratuitously reply (usually same day) or put you in contact with someone who can. The Smooth Harold Helpdesk is at your service!
Over the years, I've benefited both personally and professionally from kind and intelligent individuals over lunch. Yes, good people still exist. So if you're ever in the greater Salt Lake area (all are welcome) and want to grab a friendly bite, don't hesitate to ask.