Here's some good news/bad news about a book I've been looking forward to for several months -
First the bad news: Author William Lidwell has informed me that Deconstructing Product Design won't be available until the Fall of 2009. For background, Lidwell is one of the authors of my favorite design reference book, Universal Principles of Design (see my review from a couple of years ago). Like UPD, DPD will combine a smart balance of applied and conceptual design analysis in a highly visual and readable format. More specifically, DPD will,
"explore the meaning of 'good design' as it pertains to consumer products. Deconstruction here is an exploration of the form, function, and usability of these products by way of emotional response, objective analysis, and subjective commentary."
Unfortunately we'll have to wait another year for publication.
But now the good news: Lidwell is asking design professionals and enthusiasts to contribute their input to the forthcoming book. The 100 classic products that will be covered in the book, ranging from the Sony Walkman to Cabbage Patch Dolls, are presented on the Deconstructing Product Design web site. You can provide your comments about any of these individual products:
"If you have actually used any of these products, know interesting or little known facts about them, or have a visceral response or personal perspective that you would like to share, write it up as a comment on this site. If we select your entry for inclusion in the print book, you will have a byline with your comment and you will be included in the contributor section." I look forward to reading comments from DesigningforHumans readers on the site, and perhaps some published in the book as well.
