First off, I must say that Susan Weinschenk’s “100 Things Every Designer Needs to Know About People” is one of the best books I have ever read. I must admit that I still haven’t completely finished it, but I learned so much just after reading the first few sections. It touches on some very interesting points about the psychology when it comes to individuals and the user experience. To summarize the book in one sentence, I’d say don’t make things hard to do or read because most people only do or read things a certain way and most of the time they are very unwilling to put in more work than necessary when consuming information or enjoying an experience. This very much relates to our Hero’s Journey project because we are working with a virtual environment that is meant to be encouraging and engaging for the user. We want them to stay in the world and follow the path to the end to learn more about what they could pursue an education or career in. We have to pay attention to so many different details to ensure this happens. They are more than likely not going to stay or continue through the path if it isn’t easy and convenient to do so. If they have to go out of their way to try to figure out what to do or which way to go, they may give up. Society is very lazy today! That is just the truth of the matter.
The Watchmen graphic novel was also great. I still haven’t finished this either but not only is it an amazing original story but the way that the story is delivered is also brilliant. The graphic side of the novel certainly makes it a much more immersive experience which is exactly what we are trying to do with those who visit our virtual world for the Hero’s Journey.