Dear Tech Product Designers,
Virge asked readers if “new and improved” tech product updates are actually considered an improvement by older users. The conversation brings up a larger question of older adults being considered in product design – and why it matters who is at the table when decisions are made.
Virge kicked off the Open Thread with feedback on too-small screen and font sizes, the need for improved volume control options, why non-intuitive procedures take up space and time, and dissatisfaction with hard-to-hold devices. Readers commented in droves that they couldn’t agree more – and shared both frustrations and suggestions for improvements.
It’s worth highlighting some of the frustrations caused by tech and tech updates:
“Restaurant menus on QR codes just make me cranky! Please, just give me a paper menu.” – Susan W.
and…
“Please remember that not everyone has the money or mental ability to adapt to a completely new technology, let alone some of the abbreviations used in the instructions.” – Carolyn B.
Many of the commented frustrations are rooted in the understandable desire to have technology ready at the fingertips (without a pending update) – when needed:
“I want to use and enjoy what I have, not run out to buy more stuff I don’t need or want.” – Dr. Jacqueline F.
Readers posed simple solutions that could be invaluable to product designers:
“Although designers may think that grey text is more sophisticated than black, it is much less “accessible” for us older folks!” – M.R.
“I’ve often thought a tech company should make a computer and iPhone with basic capabilities that would last. Or perhaps like cars – have a basic model with optional upgrades one could purchase I’d you need/want them.” – Lois L.
In conclusion, developers, hear our cry! And from previous tech insider Jo C.:
“I sincerely hope developers read and understand our concerns. After spending 25+ years in the tech industry, I know they can do better.” – Jo Crull
Have more to say about this topic? We’ll keep this posted for a while so you can add your ideas, second thoughts, or even third thoughts. Keep sending your thoughts in the comments and we’ll revisit this topic again!
Until next time,
Suzanne Myklebust is Senior Planet’s Director of Communications – stepping in to post this Open Thread Update for Senior Planet’s Managing Editor Virge Randall while she is out of town. Send your suggestions for future Open Threads to Virge at editor@seniorplanet.org.
Comments
Technology is moving at a phenomenal speed and one cannot help but think of being left alone in this new dawn. What bothers me the most is we as human beings. We’ve developed a mentality of either you are one of us or we can’t help you. I don’t have the stomach for QR’s or anything that counts me a series of digit numbers. Unfortunately, if one wishes to survive in this “man-made IT modernized world”, one will need to learn to adapt.
I couldn’t agree more with all of the above! Lately I am getting emails from utility companies urging me to switch to on-line billing – “because it will make life so much easier for ME.” This is nonsense; it will only make life easier for THEM. Easier for me is to keep on sending bills monthly so I can more easily keep track of what I am spending. And we wonder why our Post Office is losing money – fewer users are using it to send out bills, for example.
I’m with you, Stephanie!
I have an accordion file and I keep all my bills in there for tax and tracking purposes. With E-billing I have to download their invoice and print it out.
Why don’t we get a discount for saving them dough o mailing?
thanks for the comment!
This year, I am taking technology to a creative “old school” in order to address my technology frustrations. I am writing stuff down on a legal pad first. I am creating an assignment ,expressing myself with an opening statement, then 3 or 4 points I have questions about. Then each paragraph covering points chronologically, and each paragraph exploring answers I have, and others have, to the opening statement.
Whew! I just got worn out writing. Did this help?
Linda: lots “Life Hacks” online or printed: Me: I purchased old plastic grip at dollar store, open bottles, has 3 sizes, use your leverage not strength. Also, P.B., jam bottles, salad dressing tops under water, tap the rim. Old school. Candy, small packages: finger nail clippers, not your teeth. Package deliveries. Use garden clippers with small grippy garden gloves. Tiny writing: Wear small magnifying glass around neck. Or take a phone pic. Enlarge it. Grocery meet icebreaker (: HA!!
I need help with my iPhone. It’s an expensive one my son bought for me and I am struggling every time I use it. There my be very simple problems but the frustration is huge. I’ve been waiting and asking for a long time that Senior Planet have a session to help and guide on using iPhones. I am sure I am not alone with this matter. Any help/advise would be extremely appreciated. Thank you.
Hi there
You can register and get one on one tutoring from a Verizon volunteer. Check it out here at this link.
https://cms.seniorplanet.org/tech-tutoring-with-verizon/