GPT
    GOOD & BAD
    DESIGN EXAMPLES




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    Bad Design Example: Economy Airplane Seats
    (Especially the Triple Ones)
    I love traveling, but long flights are tough because the airplane seats are so uncomfortable.
    Lack of Space and Comfort
    Economy class airplane seats, especially in rows of three, are often poorly designed to maximize the number of passengers, sacrificing comfort. The seats are too close together, offering very little legroom, making it hard for people to move or stretch. This leads to discomfort, especially on long flights. The middle seat is particularly bad because it has the least space and armrest access, leaving the person in the middle feeling cramped and squished between the other passengers. Additionally, passengers seated by the window or middle often find it difficult to get up and go to the bathroom, as they have to disturb others to make their way through the narrow aisle.
    Reclining and Shared Space Issues
    The design also creates issues with reclining. When the person in front reclines, it takes away even more space, making it difficult to use the tray table or sit comfortably. With limited ability to adjust the seat for better posture or support, passengers often end up with back or neck pain. The shared armrests and lack of personal space make the experience even more frustrating, leading to a less enjoyable and uncomfortable flight for everyone.

    Good Design Example: Amtrak train coach seats
    I've traveled to the U.S. and back by airplane, car, bus, and train, and out of all these options, the train has been by far the most comfortable and enjoyable experience.
    Spacious and Comfortable Design
    Amtrak train seats are designed to keep passengers comfortable, with plenty of space and legroom. The seats are wider and more spread out compared to airplane seats, so you can stretch out and relax on longer trips. With lots of legroom, you don’t feel cramped, and it’s easy to get up and move around. Going to the bathroom is simple because you don’t have to disturb others or squeeze through a narrow aisle.

    Reclining and Overall Comfort

    Amtrak seats also recline well, letting you lean back without bothering the person behind you. You can adjust the seat to find a comfortable position, which helps reduce back and neck strain during long trips. Thanks to this roomy and comfy design, you feel less tired when you reach your destination. Overall, Amtrak seats make long journeys more relaxing and enjoyable.
    Bad Design Example: Hi-tech Toilet
    I love technology and how it makes our lives easier, and while I appreciate the idea of a high-tech toilet, it’s important that it’s designed to be easy to use without needing instructions.
    Complexity and User Confusion
    High-tech toilets, like the one at Hotel Novotel Nervion in Seville, can be tricky to use. With so many buttons and settings, it can be confusing to figure out how to operate everything. This complexity might lead to users struggling with the controls, which can result in awkward or embarrassing situations.

    Potential for Embarrassment and Malfunction

    Even though these high-tech features are advanced, they can cause problems. If someone accidentally presses the wrong button or can’t figure out how to stop a function, it can be uncomfortable and embarrassing. Plus, these toilets can sometimes have technical issues, leaving users in an awkward situation if the features don’t work properly.