014 Back-of-the-Dresser

All parts of a design should be held to the same standard of quality.

• Proposed informally by Steve Jobs, American entrepreneur and personal computer pioneer.

• The principle asserts that the craftsmanship applied by designers and developers to areas not ordinarily visible to customers is a good indicator of product quality—it is proof whether they applied consistent craftsmanship to all aspects of the product.

• Indications of craftsmanship include quality materials, precision fit, uniformity of finish, internal consistency, and maker marks or signatures. These elements reflect the passion and care (or lack thereof) of the creators.

• Apply excellent design and development to all aspects of products. Treat invisible areas as if they were visible, and include them in testing and evaluation. Light is the best disinfectant for shoddy craftsmanship.

See Also Aesthetic-Usability Effect • Consistency Feature Creep • Form Follows Function • Framing

Brick fronts and HardiePlank backs lower costs, but raise suspicions about what other out-of-sight corners were cut.