In this episode of The Design Vault, we explore the iconic Braun ET66 calculator, designed by Dieter Rams in 1987. We discuss how this calculator, now featured in the Museum of Modern Art, embodies Rams' 'less, but better' philosophy through its distinctive features like convex circular buttons and a high-contrast color scheme. We highlight how the ET66's ergonomic design and intuitive layout demonstrate the lasting impact of thoughtful industrial design.

Our conversation then shifts to Dieter Rams' influential career as Chief Design Officer at Braun and his ten principles of good design. We examine how Rams' approach has shaped modern design, including its notable influence on Apple's product aesthetics. We also discuss how the ET66's design principles have been adapted for digital interfaces, as seen in the iPhone's calculator app.

We conclude by challenging the myth of the lone design genius, exploring the shift towards collaborative, user-centered design approaches in today's complex technological landscape.

Join us as we shape the future of design by learning from the past.

FOLLOW US

Linkedin Albert

Linkedin Thamer

Instagram

Hosts: Albert Shum and Thamer Abanami

Production and Post-production: Romina Hakim, Toño Tellez and Poonam Patel

Music: Red Lips Media LLC

Brand Design: Rafael Poloni

In this episode of The Design Vault, we dive deep into the fascinating story behind one of gaming's most iconic devices—the Nintendo Game Boy. We uncover how Nintendo's history as a playing card and toy company shaped the development of this revolutionary handheld console. Our discussion explores the intriguing philosophy of lateral thinking in design, revealing how embracing technological constraints actually propelled the Game Boy to incredible success. We also examine the profound impact this device had on gaming culture, making video games more accessible than ever before.

We also introduce listeners to Genpei Yokoi, the visionary designer behind the Game Boy, and delve into how his approach of using simplified technology led to the creation of efficient, long-lasting products. We take a look at the state of the gaming industry in the early 1980s and how the Game Boy's arrival shook things up. Perhaps most importantly, we highlight the crucial role that lateral thinking and working within technological constraints played in the design process, ultimately leading to one of the most beloved gaming devices of all time.

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Join us as we shape the future of design by learning from the past!

FOLLOW US

Linkedin Albert

Linkedin Thamer

Instagram

Hosts: Albert Shum and Thamer Abanami

Production and Post-production: Romina Hakim, Toño Tellez and Poonam Patel

Music: Red Lips Media LLC

Brand Design: Rafael Poloni

In today’s episode, we continue our fascinating discussion with designer Steve Kaneko, as he shares his insights into the development and impact of the Microsoft Mouse 2.0. From integrating human-centered design into technology to the evolution of design thinking in creating system-wide solutions, this conversation is a goldmine for anyone interested in the intersection of design, technology, and human experience.

Steve draws intriguing comparisons between the design philosophy of the late '80s and early '90s and today's approach, highlighting the evolution of design thinking over the decades. He emphasizes the meticulous attention paid to product performance, including seemingly minor yet crucial adjustments like weight optimization for enhanced usability. Beyond the device itself, Steve explores the far-reaching implications of design decisions on hardware, software, and the intricate dance of human-computer interaction. As a seasoned design professional and leader, Steve also imparts valuable wisdom for aspiring designers, offering thoughtful advice on how to navigate their careers and approach projects with a holistic, user-centered mindset. This episode serves as a testament to the profound impact of thoughtful design on our daily interactions with technology.

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Join us as we shape the future of design by learning from the past

FOLLOW US

Linkedin Albert

Linkedin Thamer

Instagram

Hosts: Albert Shum and Thamer Abanami

Production and Post-production: Romina Hakim, Toño Tellez and Poonam Patel

Music: Red Lips Media LLC

Brand Design: Rafael Poloni

In this episode, we are thrilled to welcome Steve Kaneko, a pivotal figure behind the design of the Microsoft Mouse 2.0, a product so significant it earned a place in the Museum of Modern Art's permanent collection. Steve takes us back to 1993 when Microsoft decided to invest more seriously in input devices to better enable its Windows franchise, creating their first in-house designed mouse that would set new standards in design and usability. He shares the initial challenges of this groundbreaking project, from reducing costs to transitioning from a mechanical to an optomechanical encoder to enhance reliability and performance.

Steve delves into the introduction of a new visual design language and walks us through the intricate design process of the Microsoft Mouse 2.0. He explores the crucial role of design in both hardware and software development, shedding light on how biomechanics, kinesiology, and ergonomics influenced their approach. Steve emphasizes the importance of ergonomic design in product signals and discusses how these factors interplay with both software and hardware usability. This episode offers a fascinating glimpse into the intersection of technology, design, and user experience that shaped one of Microsoft's most iconic products.

Join us as we shape the future of design by learning from the past.

FOLLOW US

Linkedin Albert

Linkedin Thamer

Instagram

Hosts: Albert Shum and Thamer Abanami

Production and Post-production: Romina Hakim, Toño Tellez and Poonam Patel

Music: Red Lips Media LLC

Brand Design: Rafael Poloni

The Speak & Spell, an iconic electronic learning toy introduced by Texas Instruments in 1978, revolutionized educational devices. Combining speech synthesis and interactive games, it helped children learn spelling and pronunciation in an engaging way. The device's distinctive voice and user-friendly interface made it an instant hit among kids and adults, establishing it as one of the most popular and enduring electronic educational toys ever created.

In this episode, we explore the history, design, and technology behind the Speak & Spell, as well as its lasting impact on education and popular culture. We examine its technical innovations and design elements that made it special, while also discussing broader topics such as the design principles of educational devices, open-ended play, and the connection between teaching machines and artificial intelligence. Join us as we look to shape the future of design by learning from the past.

Join us as we shape the future of design by learning from the past

FOLLOW US

Linkedin Albert

Linkedin Thamer

Instagram

Hosts: Albert Shum and Thamer Abanami

Production and Post-production: Romina Hakim, Toño Tellez and Poonam Patel

Music: Red Lips Media LLC

Brand Design: Rafael Poloni

In this episode, we plunge back into our fascinating discussion with Moni Wolf who was a designer at Motorola during the time of the Razr.

We dive deep into the revolutionary design strategies that propelled the Motorola Razr to fame, and exploring Moni’s insightful journey through the design world. As we navigate through aspects of creativity, the pressures of innovation, and the evolution of cellphone design against stiff competition like Nokia, and the role of AI and systems thinking in crafting the future of technology. Moni shares profound insights on embracing challenges, fostering innovation, and the critical importance of taking breaks to recharge creativity. 

TAKEAWAYS

Discussion on the iconic "Hello Moto" slogan and its branding impact

Importance of periods of idleness for creativity and innovation

Moni recounts taking a sabbatical to foster new ideas.

Competition with other big tech players like Nokia and the advent of smartphones from Apple

Predictions and hopes for integrating AI into design processes

Join us as we shape the future of design by learning from the past 

FOLLOW US

Linkedin Albert

Linkedin Thamer

Instagram

Hosts: Albert Shum and Thamer Abanami

Production and Post-production: Romina Hakim, Toño Tellez and Poonam Patel

Music: Red Lips Media LLC

Brand Design: Rafael Poloni

In this episode, Moni Wolf, former industrial designer at Motorola, shares her journey and experiences working at the company. She discusses joining Motorola and her time in the Paging Division before transitioning to the mobile phone division. Moni also talks about the establishment of the Milan Design Center and the influence it had on Motorola's design process.

TAKEAWAYS

Introduction of the Motorola Razr as a pivotal product

Transition from working on pagers to mobile phones

Collaborative efforts in engineering to solve issues like the antenna placement

Discussion on Razr’s role as a cultural icon and fashion statement

Join us as we shape the future of design by learning from the past

FOLLOW US

Linkedin Albert

Linkedin Thamer

Instagram

Hosts: Albert Shum and Thamer Abanami

Production and Post-production: Romina Hakim, Toño Tellez and Poonam Patel

Music: Red Lips Media LLC

Brand Design: Rafael Poloni

In this episode, we reflect on the iconic Sony Walkman and its impact on design and personal experiences. We discussed the history of the Walkman, its design features, and its role in shaping the way people listen to music, the concept of iconic design and the importance of creating a holistic end-to-end experience.

TAKEAWAYS

Discussion on balance between creating "good enough" products versus outstanding ones

Background on the creation and market success of the Sony Walkman.

Transition from the Walkman to the Minidisc; exploring both design excellence and legacy challenges.

The role of design in enhancing the music listening experience, making it mindful and present.

The move from Walkman to iPod, emphasizing on software-hardware integration and user experience.

RESOURCES

"Digital Dreams, the Work of the Sony Design Center"

Join us as we shape the future of design by learning from the past and present 

FOLLOW US

Linkedin Albert

Linkedin Thamer

Instagram

Hosts: Albert Shum and Thamer Abanami

Production and Post-production: Romina Hakim, Toño Tellez and Poonam Patel

Music: Red Lips Media LLC

Brand Design: Rafael Poloni

Welcome to our new podcast The Design Vault, hosted by Albert Shum and Thamer Abanami.

TAKEAWAYS

• The Design Vault Podcast aims to explore the intersection of design, technology, and innovation.

Join us as we shape the future of design by learning from the past and present 

FOLLOW US

Linkedin Albert

Linkedin Thamer

Instagram

Hosts: Albert Shum and Thamer Abanami

Production and Post-production: Romina Hakim, Toño Tellez and Poonam Patel

Music: Red Lips Media LLC

Brand Design: Rafael Poloni

The Design Vault is a show where we learn from the past and present as we shape the future of design together, brought to you by hosts Albert Shum and Thamer Abanami.

We’ll discuss iconic products like the Walkman, the 808, and much more, as well as the stories behind them. 

Join us as we shape the future of design by learning from the past