[ID Discuss] Interaction design == web design

[id at ourbrisbane.com]

Quoting "Reimann, Robert" <Robert_Reimann at bose.com>:
> The difference between design methods and HF methods is
> that design methods are typically generative and constructive,
> whereas HF methods are typically analytical and reductive.  Both 
> have their place in the design process.  HF methods are terrific 
> for taking an artifact/system and rigorously analyzing its strengths 
> and weaknesses based on theories deduced from empirical observation.
> 
> Design methods do not require an existing artifact/system to analyze
> (not at first, anyway), and make use of visualization, narrative, and
> empathic techniques to generate and execute models of experience
> (concepts) based on previously identified principles and patterns 
> that may have been arrived at by inspiration/analogy, trial and 
> error, or iteration (and usually some combination of all three). 
> 
> Design works best as a top-down activity, with successive phases 
> of conceptualization, analysis and refinement.  Designers tend to
> be strong in concept-generation, and weaker in analysis.  HF folks
> tend to be the opposite.  Thus the two methods and foci complement
> each other delightfully.

Excellent!  Thank you Robert.  I now understand where you're coming from,
although would not pidgeon-hole HF into being strictly analytical and reductive
(even though that's where its origins lay).  It is a dsicipline that has been
evolving both in the academic and practical/commercial areas since its
inception, and as such, has taken great strides in generating concepts without
existing artefacts.  However, as both yourself and Gerard mentioned, IxD seems
to be a fantastic approach with a different emphasis.  

Just to give you a quick insight as to why I'm so interested in this: 
My background is steeped in a number of seemingly disparate, yet overlapping
areas, starting with being a Commercial Pilot and Flight Instructor, through
being a Graphic Designer, Interface Designer, Interactive Multimedia Designer
and (eventually) Art Director (who dabbled in cognitive science along the way as
a hobby), to my current career in Human Factors (oh, and don't forget to throw
in just about every odd job between contracts so I could pay for my never ending
study regime).  

Since venturing down this path, I have been most interested in affect in design
and have followed the works of Norman, Revelle & Ortony, Picard, Sloman and
others with great interest.  If there are any other sources you can point me to,
I would appreciate it greatly.

Best regards,

Ash Donaldson
"It depends."
User Experience Designer