what (else) can we learn from the simpsons

During our first session of Design Ethnography 1 a few weeks ago, we were shown an image of "The Homer", a car designed by Homer Simpson to meet every single one of his needs. The lesson here was a simple, but useful one: allowing the voice of the customer to be the only design influence can be dangerous, and sometimes lead to undesirable results.

Fortunately for fans like me, this is not all we can learn from The Simpsons.

When I visit the univeristy gym during the correct hour, every single television propped above a machine is tuned to The Simpsons—it is like there is no alternative. Usually I would think nothing of this besides "this occurs because it is a funny show", but after reading Scott McCloud's Understanding Comics, a new reason came to light: the Simpsons are relatable. The show is about a family of four living in the suburbs and going to work and school or keeping a house. Everybody can understand this concept. In a way, watching The Simpsons is a form of ethnography. The way one reacts to the events on the show is similar to the way one will handle similar events in their own life. Sure, The Simpsons use over-the-top examples, but it is done to drive home a message. This is why it is such a brilliant concept—because it is barely a "concept" at all. It is just everyday life.

Or maybe I just like thinking about The Simpsons.

By the way, the book mentioned above, Understanding Comics, is a great read for any design ethnographer. Scott McCloud goes into deep detail to explain why comics are unlike any other form of media. "Closure" in comics—the process that our mind executes to fill in the story between frames—can be a useful tool for an ethnographer: create a fluid story from fragments of information. It is a recommended read—if nothing else, it will be the most unique book you've read lately.