We were watching Planet Earth last night (brilliant TV) and they were showing a sequence with a humpback whale mother and calf. The mother was supporting the calf close to the surface so that it could breath. “Imagine being born into an atmosphere* that you can’t breath!” – I said. “If it were up to usability consultants there would be no whales!” – came the response from the Voice of BBC Long Melford.
Bit harsh.
But I will use it as my reminder that ‘most usable’ alone doesn’t always lead us to the best solution! I’m still not getting anywhere with those Japanese robots though…
*probably not the most scientifically correct description but you know what I mean.
Best solution…… hmmmmmmmmm……
Why solution always must be “Best” ? Best for what (how “best solution” whales are)?
What about “balanced solution”?
I agree. Best is not a useful word.
I like balanced. What do you think about ‘most appropriate’ or is that just balanced?
i don’t have a problem with ‘best’, as long as it’s best in context. There is no ‘absolute’ best.
Best is good because it encourages you to strive beyond ‘good enough’, and I think that’s a very good thing. (the best thing? 😉 )
‘Most appropriate’ refers to external constraints. I always strive for ‘the best’!
🙂
Fear not the Icelandic and Japanese nation are seeking to correct this anomaly.