Ever wondered why some tech feels so intuitive while other interfaces leave you confused? In this episode of HCI Explained, we dive into the fascinating design principles of affordances and constraints—two forces that quietly shape how we interact with technology every day.
We’ll explore how affordances suggest possible actions, from the obvious tap of a smartphone icon to the subtle hint of a swipe gesture. Then, we’ll unpack constraints—the intentional limits designers place to guide behaviour—whether it’s a greyed-out menu option, the shape of a VR track, or the logical sequence of an online form.
Through real-world examples spanning smartphones, smart home devices, voice assistants, and AI-powered tools, you’ll see how designers combine affordances and constraints to create intuitive and safe interfaces.
By the end, you’ll have a deeper appreciation for how these concepts influence your everyday tech experiences—and how you can use them to design better, more user-friendly products.
🎧 HCI Explained is your guide to understanding the design and psychology behind the technology you use every day.
Episode highlights:
What affordances are and how they work in tech
The different types of constraints: physical, logical, and cultural
How these concepts appear in everyday devices and apps
Modern examples from AI, VR, and smart home design
Why balancing affordances and constraints is crucial for good UX
