How can a manufacturing company use the concept of prospective memory to enhance their product design?

The theme of prospective memory in "The Design of Everyday Things" relates to contemporary debates in product design in terms of how products can be designed to aid human memory. Prospective memory refers to the task of remembering to do something in the future. In product design, this concept can be applied by creating products that serve as reminders or cues for certain tasks. This is particularly relevant in today's digital age where products such as smartphones and smart home devices are designed with features to assist with prospective memory, such as setting reminders or alarms. This ties into the larger debate on how product design can enhance human capabilities and improve user experience.

Small businesses can leverage the concept of prospective memory in product design by incorporating reminders within the product that signal users about future tasks. These reminders can be designed as signals and messages. A signal alerts the user that something needs to be remembered, while the message informs the user about what exactly needs to be remembered. By doing so, the product becomes more user-friendly and intuitive, enhancing the overall user experience.