Mitch Ratcliffe at ZDnet is conducting a longer term comparison between a new MacBook Pro and a Lenovo X60 as part of a series of articles looking at broader user experience with two OS platforms. I normally would not cite an article from the more mainstream eNews media as they often strike me as being removed from the average users experience and entirely submerged in the manufacturer’s marketing messages. In fact, Ratcliffe notes up front that he may take Lenovo on a as a client during the span of his series of articles. Well, at least he’s honest. So why am I citing this article?
Ratcliffe has presented a better eNews article. He has started from scratch in looking at the way in which manufacturer’s address the total user experience. Today’s article focuses on unpacking the two machines and appreciating the experience that this creates. He notes immediately that the Apple packaging itself replicates the experience of carrying the laptop away from the store, with a slim box and a carrying handle. This compares with Lenovo which packs a smaller, lighter machine in a larger, non-descript box that “makes the ThinkPad appear clunkier when it’s not.” Moreover the MacBook is ‘framed’ and the packaging itself focuses on the product itself, presenting it as an object of a certain desire. The ThinkPad unfortunately, with loose fitting wrappers that fit all ThinkPad shapes and sizes presents the computer in a generic way…packed in a pile of uninspiring packing material to be thrown away. In contrast, the Apple box is one that begs to be kept (even displayed). I wonder if the folks at Lenovo are listening? I wonder if they do care about these things? I certainly can’t tell from my past experience with my ThinkPads, but will admit that I am typing this on my X32 which is my weapon of choice, despite not having established a personal or spiritual relationship with the machine’s manufacturer.
Although its clear that not everyone notes these salient little details, I appreciate that some are struck less consciously by this attention to detail and this is where Ratcliffe is going with this artile. It is meant to look at the all important first impression. Ratcliffe’s choice of words are well chosen and I look forward to reading his subsequent articles which will hopefully continue to explore som of the less discussed aspects of the user experience beyond simply usability.