Saturday, October 29, 2011

Form Follows Function - Is This Correct?

Form follows function. These three words produce a powerful paradigm for any artist. The theory is that the general design or interface of an object must be supported by the objectives of the overall function that the object is set to define and execute to the fullest extent. I do believe that form does follow function. There must be a purpose for the form to even exist, and that is when function plays its role.

The designer must have their form be driven by not only the function it is intended for, but also drive itself in a rich and engaging experience for the user. The end user is ultimately going to want to accomplish a task and have their expectations met. The overall design and flow of the form should not be independent to itself. The form must be able to show a purpose for why the function even exists to begin with. There has to be a balance between form and function.

Overall, this is why I am a firm believer of form following function. You need a purpose for design to even exist. Why are you designing a form the way you are? What is motivating you? What do you want the form to ultimately prove? Show the reason and usefulness behind it all. You aren't going to sacrifice great design in favor of function. Knowing how to adapt function with design, and to go beyond, is what matters.


2 comments:

  1. Bob, I agree with your post. We also have to remember that the form should be invented around the specific audience. It is one thing to develop a form and another to have it please your intended audience.

    ReplyDelete
  2. I agree with Stephanie on her point about remembering that the form should be invented around the audience. In our reading by Peter-Paul Koch, we heard all about this.

    ReplyDelete