Mobile Design and well, Life
April 19th changed my view of the world. What should have been a sunny Monday evening after a wonderful weekend turned into a nightmare. After a nice day at work, I arrived home to a demolished front door, lock lying shattered on the ground. My poor Sadie peering through the crack as if to say “Momma! I’m so scared! Where have you been?” Having reality hit like this is nerve racking at best. I called 9-1-1, affirmed that all of my puppies were unharmed and went in to assess the damage. Almost everything I had, of any personal sentimental value was gone, including my 20 yr old Brently softpack, beautiful Murano glass earrings I purchased in Venice, Italy, and my sense of security. Gone. In one kick to my front door (footprint as proof).
Let me try to explain where Mobile Design fits in. Having my computer stolen made it very difficult to change account passwords to sites like Twitter, Facebook and my bank. But thankfully, I had my iPhone. Unfortunately, trying to maneuver (in a very distressed state) around the numerous websites, waiting for them to load, then searching around for the ability to change passwords, or heck, even find the link to load the true web version was all but impossible. So, make a note: if you’re designing a mobile app, please consider your users. Especially the totally freaked out, panicky ones. Second, when creating a mobile design, you’re usually right in line with the Content Strategy statement “Less Is More” but come on folks, you’ve gotta provide something useful. Having a pared down functioning mobile design does not necessarily mean you remove basic features like “change password.” Because, hey, if my smart phone was stolen? I would probably be using my buddy’s phone as I calmly FREAK OUT.
Inevitably, my mobile apps did not pull through. Nor did my tiny little iPhone screen or Comcast for that matter, although nobody is shocked about that last contender. To add insult to injury, the dudes took every last Apple charger I had. Spiteful little folks I tell you. So, while trying to load completely useless mobile apps, I drained my battery. *sigh.
The good news? People, some who have never met me, rallied around and supported me. Through Twitter and Facebook, Brently (now Brenthaven) contacted me and helped me purchase a new backpack, ADT quickly replied and installed an alarm system, and the Bellingham Police Department caught at least three of the spiteful thieves and have retrieved one item to date. So to all of you, thank you.