Dan Saffer: 'Interaction design is an applied art'

Theodore Roethke noted, 'I learn by going where I have to go.'

This is a great article to read while just starting an Interactive Design course.

Dan Saffer talks about his everyday job, but breaks it down to simply everything he does whilst designing. And Ive decided he thinks like I think. for example, Saffer says that you can read all the bokos in the world, but it doesnt make you a good designer. I think that this is true, but if you read them and but what you have read into practice, especially when your learning, then you will keep getting better and better.

He gives you tips on what to do and what not do do whilst improving your skills. I found this part of the interview thoroughly helpfull.
What are the typical mistakes that interface design newbies encounter and how to avoid them?

I'd say there are two mistakes that new designers make: one is not coming up with enough variations—or, more accurately, not being able to come up with more alternatives.
The second mistake is one of details and completeness. What separates a great designer from a good one is the ability to not only come up with great concepts but to also see those through down to small details.

Starting out in this field, I found this interview really helpful seeing how a man already well established within design thinks. Im going to take on board what Ive learnt and put it into practice practice practice.

Id like to leave you with my favourite part of the interview:

The principle you follow in life and work?
I have three:

'The Way you know is not The Way.' –Tao Te Ching

'A body in motion tends to stay in motion.' Newton's First Law

'If it was easy, then everyone would do it.'