Should you ignore the n00bs?(sethgodin.typepad.com)
sethgodin.typepad.com
Should you ignore the n00bs?
http://sethgodin.typepad.com/seths_blog/2008/08/should-you-igno.html
3 comments
From Seth's post:
Why not consider making it easy for the confused to ask for help? And treat them with respect when they do. If you don't create a little confusion, it's unlikely you've built something remarkable.
I think it's an interesting way to look at things, but ultimately flawed. When confusion exists, there are many ways to alleviate it. Facebook takes the "blank slate" as an opportunity to actively educate the user. So does 37Signals (http://gettingreal.37signals.com/ch09_The_Blank_Slate.php).
These things may not turn "n00bs" into power users, but they'll at least reach a level of proficiency where they feel comfortable. That's the crucial first step. It only takes a few of them to advance to the next level (harnessing their understanding of your design to think of new ways of applying it) to make things really interesting.
Why not consider making it easy for the confused to ask for help? And treat them with respect when they do. If you don't create a little confusion, it's unlikely you've built something remarkable.
I think it's an interesting way to look at things, but ultimately flawed. When confusion exists, there are many ways to alleviate it. Facebook takes the "blank slate" as an opportunity to actively educate the user. So does 37Signals (http://gettingreal.37signals.com/ch09_The_Blank_Slate.php).
These things may not turn "n00bs" into power users, but they'll at least reach a level of proficiency where they feel comfortable. That's the crucial first step. It only takes a few of them to advance to the next level (harnessing their understanding of your design to think of new ways of applying it) to make things really interesting.
Short answer: no.
Long answer: don't ignore any users you potentially want to have. It's just bad business.
Full quote:
"Designing for many people doesn't mean designing for the lowest common denominator. The best Google designs appear quite simple on the surface but include powerful features that are easily accessible to those users who want them. Our intent is to invite beginners with a great initial experience while also attracting power users whose excitement and expertise will draw others to the product.
A well-designed Google product lets new users jump in, offers help when necessary, and ensures that users can make simple and intuitive use of the product's most valuable features. Progressive disclosure of advanced features encourages people to expand their usage of the product. Whenever appropriate, Google offers smart features that entice people with complex online lives – for instance, people who share data across several devices and computers, work online and off, and crave storage space."