Donald A. Norman
In this chapter, Mr. Norman discusses automation and how the current trend for technology is heading that way. Automation in itself is not all it is cut out to be. We use automation to do tasks for us that we might consider menial or time consuming but at the same time, it spawns a whole other set of things for us to do. Mr. Norman gives an example of how a coffee machine makes coffee automatically for us. Even though it didn't take much effort to begin with, in the morning, we really don't want to do it. So having the automation in this case helps us. This automation creates some minor inconveniences. After we have had the coffee made for us, we now have to empty the grounds, remove the filter, and clean the whole unit. A group at Microsoft is also looking into automation but as more of a helper for humans and not a replacement. This is currently being researched for use in smart homes. These homes would help busy families with scheduling and planning during the week.
Automation has its benefits but I think it should be used to supplement human effort rather than replace it. Technology may not always be there and we cannot afford to forget how to do things without technology. That is why automation should supplement human effort that way we always still have some responsibility or task we can do. I think the smart home idea is really cool especially for a busy family. If it could be used to help find more time that families can spend together, it is definitely worth it.
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