- "As We May Think," by Vannevar Bush (Atlantic Monthly, July 1945).
This is the classic essay by Bush—the then scientific advisor to President Roosevelt—that inspired so many hypertext projects. This essay includes broad, sweeping discussions of the role of science, technology, and information. Though references to specific technologies are clearly outdated, the sentiments expressed here are timeless. Available online at:www.theatlantic.com/doc/194507/bush.
- The Design of Everyday Things, by Donald A. Norman (Doubleday, 1990).
This is a seminal work in user-centered design—a must read for any designer. Norman uses many examples from everyday life to support his arguments. He points frequently to failures in design from all kinds of situation. Norman tends to repeat things and ramble at times, but the central tenet of this book is clear: the user's needs are not the same as the designer's.
- Persuasive Technology: Using Computers to Change What We Think and Do, by B.J. Fogg (Morgan Kaufmann, 2002).
This book is highly recommended for anyone working with interface design. Fogg essentially defines a whole new discipline in one single volume. In painstaking detail, he describes the myriad of issues surrounding credibility and computers. Though this could easily serve as a college textbook, it has appeal to a larger audience. The discussions are easy to follow and at times mesmerizing. Rich, relevant examples bring concepts to life.
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