http://www.koreatimes.co.kr/www/news/tech/2008/06/129_24748.html
Sukgu's Comment - The expression "User-Friendly" has been one of often cited phrases when talking about IT trends. The article made a example of touch screen in IT field. This is hardware related area. However, I've heard the expression more often in relation with software such as corporation's inside systems. The examples of this are user-friendly environments of information systems ranging from groupware to decision making supporting systems. Technology has always been developed to enhance convenience to human. I think user-friendly is just the same trend.
Better technology does not necessary mean more convenience. When making household or mobile appliances, engineers often fall into the trap of self-satisfaction, while neglecting the true needs of the consumers. A good example is TV remote controls that have 20 or 30 function buttons, which do nothing more than confuse users. Considering the human factor is one of the major challenges that the engineering industry has these days. The science of designing things to enable people to use them more efficiently is called ergonomics in academia.
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These days Function follows form unlike what famous Louis Sullivan's quotation 'Form follows function'!
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