The Benefits of a Clear Design Philosophy

The concept of duality is inherent in everything about the Eurostar, the train that connects France and the UK via a magic undersea tunnel. Eurostar is equally French and British. For everything French, there is a British counterpart. This goes for the languages used on board, the magazines in the train vestibules and even the food served. This duality is ingrained and obvious to the user from the outset. So, when it came to finding a power outlet, this philosophy allowed me to solve my mini dilemma with ease, saving a few euro/pounds for Eurostar along the way. 

On my side of the table there was a three-pin UK power socket. I pondered, where do I insert my two-pin European plug? Applying the philosophy of duality and imagining the table as the sea dividing Britain and France,  I surmised that the two-pin socket must surely be in the other side of the table. Et voilà! Correct. Admittedly a simple example, but it shows how a clear design philosophy can make it easier for users to apply and solve their little conundrums. This allowed the Eurostar to save money by not having to provide additional facilities. Although convenience would have dictated otherwise that more sockets be provided. Does your organization have a clear design philosophy? 

Duality is at the heart of everything about Eurostar.