The podcast delves into the state of software design with Andy Allen, covering topics like 3D design tools, AI in software design, personalized experiences, 3D interfaces in AR, and the importance of innovative visual experiences in apps. The conversation also highlights the shift towards great design, investment in personal taste, and the need for cultural impact in software design.
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Quick takeaways
Andy Allen seeks to revolutionize software design by infusing everyday apps with unique, game-inspired designs.
He emphasizes the importance of balancing functional business applications with artistically driven design choices for a successful future in software design.
Deep dives
Creation of Not Boring Apps
Andy Allen discusses the motivation behind creating Not Boring apps, aiming to replace standard phone applications like calculator and weather with unique, game-inspired designs. Allen's background in software design led him to seek a deeper connection with the craft, driving him to explore new creative ventures.
Incorporation of Craftsmanship
Allen reflects on his woodworking hiatus during the pandemic, which rekindled his love for craft and exposed the absence of artisanal quality in software design. This realization prompted a shift towards designing for deeper personal satisfaction rather than scalable mass appeal, focusing on tailored experiences over generic software.
Integration of Gaming Principles
Inspired by the gaming industry's innovation and immersive experiences, Allen experimented with incorporating gaming technology into software design. By leveraging elements like 3D physics, sound design, and haptics, he aimed to infuse everyday apps with engaging, interactive features, departing from conventional flat design trends.
Vision for Software Design Evolution
Allen envisions a future where software design transcends traditional boundaries and becomes a celebrated art form. He advocates for preserving, celebrating, analyzing, and passing on design knowledge, emphasizing the need for a balance between functional business applications and artistically driven design choices.
As soon as I read No More Boring Apps I was hooked. Andy Allen immediately became one of my design heroes and now I use his Not Boring apps daily. So this conversation is a behind-the-scenes of his journey, an analysis of the state of software design, and a glimpse of where we’re headed next as an industry. Some highlights:
- The design tools Andy is most excited about
- Andy’s advice for people wanting to learn 3D
- The differences between good and great design
- The 4 things needed for design to have cultural impact
- How AI will empower us to deliver tailored software at scale
- Why the future of design tooling might mirror the game industry