“I suffer from short-term memory loss. It runs in my family… At least I think it does… hmmm. Where are they?”
— Dory, Finding Nemo (2003)
Everything has a capacity. A cup can only contain a max capacity of liquid. A trash bag, can only contain a max capacity of trash. A computer can only contain a max capacity of memory. Our brains, too, can only retain so much information in our short-term memory (STM) — or working memory.
“The amount of information that can be retained this way is severely limited. Something like five to seven items is the limit of STM. … To maximize efficiency of working memory it is best to present different information over different modalities: sight, sound, touch (haptics), hearing, spatial location, and gestures,” according to Don Norman, The Design of Everyday Things (92, 95).
The topic of short-term memory loss resonated with me this week, during our required readings. We use our memories to retain arbitrary and meaningful things, some of which provide a sensible structure, while others require rote learning. Recall can be a challenge.
If applied to the design process, a successful product would be one that minimizes the need for memory, through a meaningful structure. A user should not have to retain a large amount of information to complete a simple task.
Ideally, “the power of a good conceptual model lies in its ability to provide meaning to things,” thus making tasks, that can and should be tested more successful. (Norman, 99).
While, Dory may be the exception, we all experience short-term memory loss, or rather we hit our maximum capacity. A little guidance from natural mappings can help point us in the right direction, minimizing the need to tax our memories, and helping us to avoid “Dory-like” moments.