Introduction
This manual provides guidance for effectively utilizing About Face: The Essentials of Interaction Design, Fourth Edition. This comprehensive guide is designed for designers, developers, and anyone interested in understanding and applying fundamental principles of interaction design in the modern digital landscape, including mobile and desktop platforms.
Image: Front cover of the book, displaying the title "About Face: The Essentials of Interaction Design" and author names.
Getting Started
1. Preparing to Read
Before diving into the content, ensure you have a comfortable reading environment. This book is substantial and benefits from focused attention.
- Physical Copy: Handle the book with care. Its robust binding is designed for frequent use, but proper handling will preserve its condition.
- Digital Copy (if applicable): Ensure your e-reader or software is updated for optimal viewing of diagrams and text.
2. Understanding the Structure
The book is organized into logical sections, progressing from foundational concepts to advanced application. While it can be read sequentially, specific chapters can also serve as reference material.
- Part I: The Essentials introduces core interaction design principles.
- Part II: The Process details the Goal-Directed Design methodology.
- Part III: The Principles explores specific design patterns and considerations.
Using the Book Effectively
1. Reading Strategies
- Sequential Reading: For a comprehensive understanding, read the book from beginning to end.
- Reference Reading: Use the detailed index and chapter headings to quickly locate specific topics or design patterns.
- Active Learning: Engage with the material by taking notes, highlighting key concepts, and discussing ideas with peers.
2. Applying Concepts
The strength of this book lies in its practical application. Consider how the principles discussed can be integrated into your current or future design projects.
- Case Studies: Analyze the provided examples and consider how similar approaches could be applied to different contexts.
- Goal-Directed Design: Practice applying the Goal-Directed Design methodology to your own projects to develop user personas and scenarios.
Care and Maintenance
To ensure the longevity of your copy of About Face, follow these simple care guidelines:
- Store the book in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent fading and warping.
- Avoid bending the spine excessively to preserve the binding integrity.
- Keep the book away from liquids and food to prevent stains and damage.
- For physical copies, use bookmarks instead of folding pages.
Troubleshooting Common Challenges
Readers may encounter certain challenges when engaging with the material. Here are some common issues and suggested approaches:
| Challenge | Solution/Approach |
|---|---|
| Difficulty understanding complex concepts. | Re-read the section, consult external resources, or discuss with a study group. The concepts build upon each other. |
| Struggling to apply theory to practical projects. | Start with small, manageable projects. Break down the Goal-Directed Design process into smaller steps. Seek feedback on your application. |
| Feeling overwhelmed by the amount of information. | Focus on one chapter or concept at a time. Take breaks. Remember it's a reference book as much as a sequential read. |
Specifications
| Publisher: | Wiley |
| Publication Date: | September 2, 2014 |
| Edition: | 4th |
| Language: | English |
| Print Length: | 720 pages |
| ISBN-10: | 1118766571 |
| ISBN-13: | 978-1118766576 |
| Item Weight: | 2.31 pounds |
| Dimensions: | 7.3 x 1.5 x 9.2 inches |
About the Authors
The insights within this book are provided by leading figures in the field of interaction design:
- Alan Cooper: Founder of Cooper and a pioneer of modern computing, whose work has significantly influenced the field.
- Robert Reimann: Founding president of the Interaction Design Association (IxDA) and Principal Interaction Designer at PatientsLikeMe.
- David Cronin: A Design Director at GE and former Managing Director at Cooper.
- Christopher Noessel: Cooper's first Design Fellow and co-author, known for teaching and speaking on design globally.
- Jason Csizmadi and Doug LeMoine: Contributed to the book's content, further enriching its practical insights.
