OBS – Open Broadcaster Software

Re:OBS – Open Broadcaster Software by chipotle_coyote on Tuesday June 21, 2022 @11:19PM (#31831657)

While I'm sort of rephrasing what DrewADesign said, I think, it's not a matter of "form over function" as much as the difference between a UI designed around the tasks to be done versus one designed around the underlying data/function models. The latter can be very "functional," but that doesn't necessarily make it a good interface.

Calibre's UI isn't illogical or nonsensical, and it can do everything you probably want when it comes to managing an ebook library, converting between book formats, and taking files and off ebook readers. But it doesn't feel like anyone involved with the UI design ever really thought about it from the perspective of "how do I make the common tasks easy" rather than "how do I ensure all the functionality is exposed".

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Re:OBS – Open Broadcaster Software by TimTheTinker on Wednesday June 22, 2022 @12:45AM (#31832119)

I think the classic design phrase "form follows function" best describes the ideal.

That is, when designing something, and especially when there's nothing to yet dictate what the form should be, let function guide you to it.

If you were to ask "how should a table lamp be designed", I would point to its function -- to give diffuse light and allow switching it on and off -- as the primary guide. Make that work well. Don't let the form get a life of its own that will distract from the function. Rather, the form should serve the function and make it beautiful.

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