Comments on: Thoughts on the ergonomics of Apple's iPad

By: David Blanar

David Blanar — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 17:22:43 +0000

As has been noted numerous times, the iPad is neither a PC nor a laptop. It is a third device, an internet appliance; as such, it is not expected to be the primary device to achieve tasks other computers are far more efficiently modeled to deliver, namely long-form written content or intricate, sophisticated manipulation of fine on-screen elements.

The iPad will be called upon for point-and-click tasks, objectives easy to achieve through basic motor functions more akin to mashing a single digit on a very obvious on-screen control.

This will suit a) children, b) the elderly and c) humans sitting in reclined or semi-reclined positions.

By: Frankie Pagnacco

Frankie Pagnacco — Fri, 19 Mar 2010 16:50:23 +0000

A wonderfully varied response. Here are some random comments by way of an answer or thoughts back at you: How many two handed interactions do you do with a paper notepad? Yes, agreed that NOW the iPad is mostly focused on consuming of media but what will it be in the future. The history of technology is littered with examples of a device starting out for one reason and ending up for something more. Mobile phone ring a bell? Definitely we should measure the smile factor. But continually soaring sales is no argument for not taking care of the 'hidden' aspects of a device that users can't possibly know is bad for them - if not now then maybe years in the future when, for instance, crippling RSI sets in. On this latter point the simple hairdryer is a case in point. Time was when the handle was at 90 degrees to the air outlet. Braun, under the good stewardship of Herr Rams, designed an angle into it. Hey presto a much more comfortable experience. Maybe not much to smile about and maybe not one that hairdryer users were clamoring for. But I'll bet you'll look at your hairdryers differently from now on. But ultimately what I like about all your comments is the recognition that ergonomics is 'good' and 'right'. So if you are designers don't be lazy. Go out there like Dieter Rams and think about it. Today it might be a value added, tomorrow the norm.

By: Nick

Nick — Wed, 17 Mar 2010 09:49:03 +0000

Shouldn't we measure the success of a product by the smile on the customer's face rather than an ache in their back.

Although everything you say is true, but the continually soaring sales figures of the iPhone would suggest that ergonomics and usability are not at the top of people list when shopping for this type of device, or making it.

I see the adoption of these devices as proof that customers value a sense of fun and play over outright comfort and ease of use.

By: Sjors

Sjors — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 14:40:42 +0000

As some other blogposts point out, the Ipad is a devise mostly focussed on consuming of media and not on the creation, to catch up with some youtube videos, to read a few blogposts etc, and the couch would be the natural habitat for the iPad. I agree that the iPad is not a solution to every situation, and in no way meant to replace laptops and desktops

By: Francois Jordaan

Francois Jordaan — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 12:14:27 +0000

You can test some of your theories using a paper prototype: http://www.marco.org/357350758

One flaw I expect them to fix (either before launch or in future versions) is the curved back. Look at the underside of the latest Macbooks: that's how it should look. Flat, with subtle rubber feet. Whenever I try to use my iPhone on a flat surface, I have to put it on a newspaper or napkin or something similar.