As more and more features are added to the same device, we try to make the same “button” perform several functions. This is a recipe for usability disaster.
Idlemode has written about 7 considerations to use when designing interactions for converged devices. I especially like the last consideration:
7 // Redundancy is useful. Devices should provide users with more than one means to achieve a goal. This allows users to find their own way, and to form their own mental map of the device. This doesn’t mean all possible avenues must be built: judicious user research and testing can suggest the 2-3 most expected means to an end. If there are three ways for a user to get to their favorite song, the chances are greater that they will get there quickly and happily. There’s nothing wrong with that kind of redundancy.
The full post is here.
