Simplicity Lens #9 - Naturalness
Avoid the use of elaborate designs and over-refinement. Create an experience that doesn't feel forced.
As humans we find comfort in nature and everything that feels natural. When something feels natural we are not overwhelmed by it and we are not afraid to approach it. This method has been used in other world views like Wabi-sabi, where things are intentionally left imperfect in order to make them simpler and natural.
It's easier to apply this lens on physical objects and some process where naturalness can be easily maintained. In more refined practices (e.g. Web design) applying this lens might be more difficult. In this case use the lens to test the experience and see how natural it feels. Where possible, draw from the user's experience and background to offer them an experience that feels natural.
Naturalness is welcoming and helps us overcome our fears. This allows us to experience and embrace new things.
This post is part of the Simplicity Lenses series. Simplicity Lenses is a tool that will help you eliminate complexity one card at a time. Subscribe to this blog to get a lens every week and the downloadable PDF when it becomes available
