SXSW Keynote - The Best Interface is No Interface by Golden Krishna

Summary

The speaker argues that while technology has brought many advances, there is a concerning trend of overusing digital interfaces and screens to solve problems when they may not be the best solution. He provides principles for better design: embrace natural processes, leverage computer capabilities, and adapt systems to individuals. The goal should not be endless apps and notifications, but rather creating solutions that serve people's needs without demanding constant attention. Thoughtful system design that works automatically yet allows backup manual control can create experiences that recede into the background, freeing people to focus on what really matters.

Takeaways

• 😟 Technology has improved rapidly, but there is a worrying trend towards overusing screens and interfaces
• 😀 As a UX designer, the author aims to deeply understand people's problems and use technology to solve them
• 📱 Our obsession with digital interfaces has gone too far and we try to add screens to solve all problems
• 😊 Early graphical user interfaces were a major improvement by being intuitive and easy to use
• 😩 We have become surrounded by screens and assume more screens make things better
• 😐 Good experience design solves real problems, not just better interfaces
• 😀 The first principle is to embrace typical processes instead of adding screens
• 😉 The second principle is to leverage computer power to serve people's needs
• 🙂 The third principle is to create systems that adapt to individuals
• 🤔 Thinking 'no interface' and avoiding screens can lead to revolutionary, human-centric ideas

Q & A

What does the speaker mean when he says the best interface is no interface?

He means that technology should adapt to serve human needs seamlessly without requiring constant interaction through screens and interfaces. The goal should be to embed technology invisibly into processes to assist people automatically.

How does the Mercedes keyless entry system embrace typical processes?

It allows you to simply pull the door handle to unlock the car rather than going through multiple steps to launch an app and tap buttons to unlock the car.

How does the Petzl headlamp leverage computers to serve people?

It has a light sensor and microchip that automatically adjusts the brightness when you look close up or farther away. This removes the need to adjust settings manually.

What is the self-inflating tire example in the speech?

Goodyear has developed a self-inflating tire that uses a sensor to monitor the tire pressure. If the pressure drops below optimal, a pump automatically reinflates the tire while driving.

How did IBM help prevent injuries for the rugby team?

They provided each player a sensor that monitored biometrics. It was then able to predict potential injuries before they occurred so preventative treatment could be provided.

What are the speaker's 3 principles for moving past screens?

1. Embrace typical processes instead of screens. 2. Leverage computers instead of catering towards them. 3. Create systems that adapt for individuals.

What does the worksheet provide to practice no UI thinking?

It has sections for observations, sensors available, and data sets. People use these to brainstorm ideas for seamlessly embedding technology using the 3 principles.

What were some ideas attendees came up with during the 10 minute workshop?

Automatic shoe ordering when they wear out based on a dye, and pills that make you smell pine when it's time to take the next dose.

How is Apple thinking similarly about detecting worn shoes?

They patented a sensor in shoe heels to detect cushioning wearing down and signal when it's time to buy replacements.

What resources are provided to learn more about the no interface concept?

The speaker is building a website at nointerface.com with videos, case studies, and ways to practice this type of thinking.