Luigi Russolo and Ugo Piatti in their Milanese intonarumori workshop, ca. 1916.
What if Designers Could Help Users Be More Mindful and Present?
Lately, I’ve been revisiting Don’t Make Me Think by Steve Krug, and it has sparked some thoughts on user experience and attention management.
Originally published in 2000, Krug’s book aimed to make usability principles accessible to everyone—even non-designers. It’s packed with insights that, as Krug himself puts it, seem “obvious”—but only after you’ve read them. The book is practical and concise enough to finish on a single flight, and it’s a classic for a reason.
In Don’t Make Me Think, Krug breaks down the basics of intuitive web design, showing how simplicity can significantly improve the user experience. It’s filled with practical tips, real-life examples, and easy-to-follow language, making it a go-to for both beginners and seasoned designers.
In 2014, Krug updated the book to address the changing digital landscape, especially with the rise of mobile experiences. As smartphones, touch interactions, and smaller screens became more prevalent, he tackled new usability challenges with his signature straightforward approach. Fast forward to 2024, and I find myself contemplating the next evolution of his ideas.
One thought keeps resurfacing: a new title for the next phase of design thinking—Don’t Distract Me.
Today, the challenge isn’t just about making things easy to use; it’s about creating experiences that respect users’ attention and mental bandwidth.
A vision from a 1906 issue of Punch magazine.
We live in an era where users are bombarded with notifications, pop-ups, and endless demands for their attention. Thoughtful design now means reducing distractions and helping users focus on what truly matters. It’s time to stop designing distracting things.
In fact, we might even need to introduce a bit of friction into design—not to complicate things for users, but to help them feel more alive. Whenever possible, design should aim to engage users with intention and presence, reflecting a deeper understanding of their needs in a fast-paced, frictionless world.
As designers, the question now is: how can we create experiences that foster mindfulness and presence? How can we design in a way that allows users to fully engage with the moment they’re in?
Mindful design isn’t about restricting engagement—it’s about aligning with users’ mental states and focusing on their well-being in a world of distractions. By turning our attention to mindfulness, we can guide users toward deeper, more intentional experiences.
Let’s consider the evolution of design. How can we evolve from usability to attention management, offering users experiences that respect their time and presence? The next chapter in design thinking starts here.
