An expansion of an earlier Linkedin post by yours truly.
The job’s Design. Product Design.
If you scan my blog you will note I’m a big fan of James Bond. I’ve seen all the films (countless times), and have a large display of James Bond collectibles and paraphernalia in my office. As even casual fans know, it all started in the fertile mind of Bond creator Ian Fleming. His original novels were racy, dramatic and the very best example of “pulp” novels. Even President John Kennedy cited From Russia With Love as one of his favorite books.
Many decades ago, Fleming wrote an article on his writing technique, titled How to Write a Thriller. A recent article revisited Fleming’s essay and added some additional context and commentary. You can find it here.
While it is a good read in and of itself, there are some great ideas Fleming provides that can be equally applied to product design. Both writing and product design are creative exercises, and his advice is in many cases applicable to both.
So here’s my take on how we can follow Fleming’s lead as product designers:
Simple and Engaging Design (Inspired by Fleming’s Simple and Engaging Prose)
Just as Fleming emphasizes the importance of straightforward and compelling narrative, product design should focus on simplicity and user engagement. Products should be intuitive and easy to use, avoiding unnecessary complexities that could confuse or frustrate the user. This approach can lead to designs that are both aesthetically pleasing and functionally efficient, much like a well-written page-turner.
Making a seamless experience (inspired by Fleming’s Pacing and Narrative Drive)
Fleming writes about setting a narrative drive, and getting the reader involved be constantly pushing the plot forward. In product design, this translates to creating a seamless and engaging user experience. The ‘pacing’ can be thought of as the user’s journey through using the product – it should be smooth, with each interaction leading logically to the next. Just as a thriller keeps readers hooked, a well-designed product should keep users engaged and satisfied at every step, from unboxing to actual use and even troubleshooting.
Creating a Multi-Sensory Experience (inspired by his sensory narrative style)
Fleming constantly adds sensory details to his scenes, making the reader feel like they can smell the smoky casino or feel an explosion. Like with Fleming’s prose, products should appeal to the senses of the consumer. This goes beyond visual appeal to include how a product feels, sounds, and even smells. For instance, the tactile response of a device, the sound of a car door closing, or the scent released when opening a new product can all contribute to a more immersive and satisfying user experience.
Quality Assurance (inspired by Fleming’s Final Editing and Polishing)
Just as Fleming emphasizes the importance of editing and polishing his manuscripts, product design must include a phase of rigorous quality assurance and refinement. This stage is crucial for ironing out any flaws and enhancing the overall quality of the product, ensuring that it not only meets but exceeds consumer expectations.
Set a Consistent Routine (and a repeatable process)
Fleming’s disciplined approach to writing, with a strict routine, can be mirrored in product design through a systematic design process. This involves regular, iterative cycles of prototyping, testing, and refining to ensure the final product is well-crafted. Maintaining a disciplined schedule in the design process helps in keeping the project on track and ensures that every aspect of the product is given due attention.
Balancing Practicality and Innovation
Fleming’s blend of realistic details with fantastic elements can inspire product designers to balance practicality with innovation. Products should meet the real-world needs of users while also offering something unique and captivating. This could mean incorporating cutting-edge technology in a user-friendly way or presenting a common product in an entirely new light.
Closing
By applying these principles from Ian Fleming’s writing methodology, product designers can create more engaging, intuitive, and satisfying products that resonate with consumers on multiple levels.
Just be careful if you borrow any gear from Q Branch to do so… And try and return it in one piece.