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News Lenovo Blogs: Design Matters
2011-12-07 22:53:
Get aboard the ThinkPad bus and move to the head of the class We just announced the ThinkPad X130e, our latest offering specially designed for the k-12 education crowd. If you ever had kids, you know the kind of abuse they can dish out to the things around them. I suffered through unexplainable damage to [...]
Head Of the Class
Get aboard the ThinkPad bus and move to the head of the class We just announced the ThinkPad X130e, our latest offering specially designed for the k-12 education crowd. If you ever had kids, you know the kind of abuse they can dish out to the things around them. I suffered through unexplainable damage to [...]
2011-11-23 15:28:
Closing in on the 20th anniversary presents some unique design opportunities I recently blogged about celebrating the 19th anniversary of ThinkPad. Every time we pass one of these milestones it makes me realize just how much black paint I have beneath my fingernails, and how significant ThinkPad has become. This week I started thinking about [...]
ThinkPad 20th Anniversary Edition?
Closing in on the 20th anniversary presents some unique design opportunities I recently blogged about celebrating the 19th anniversary of ThinkPad. Every time we pass one of these milestones it makes me realize just how much black paint I have beneath my fingernails, and how significant ThinkPad has become. This week I started thinking about [...]
2011-10-11 21:11:
Pointing choices were pretty few in the beginning Life used to be simpler in the early days of portable computing. When it came to cursor movement and selecting targets, there really weren’t many choices for getting things done. Either you used a clumsy trackball contraption that clipped to the side of the computer, an external [...]
What?s the Point?
Pointing choices were pretty few in the beginning Life used to be simpler in the early days of portable computing. When it came to cursor movement and selecting targets, there really weren’t many choices for getting things done. Either you used a clumsy trackball contraption that clipped to the side of the computer, an external [...]
2011-10-06 03:45:
I was very saddened to learn of the passing of Steve Jobs today. The world has lost a great leader, innovator, and champion for design. My sincere condolences to his family and to the entire Apple team. David Hill
Steve Jobs 1955-2011
I was very saddened to learn of the passing of Steve Jobs today. The world has lost a great leader, innovator, and champion for design. My sincere condolences to his family and to the entire Apple team. David Hill
2011-10-05 13:02:
Today is the day we officially celebrate the birth of ThinkPad. The pioneering ThinkPad 700c notebook computer was launched on October 5, 1992. I dug around in my files and found a copy of the original advertisement that launched what would become an icon of business success . You can see the ad and read [...]
Happy 19th Birthday!
Today is the day we officially celebrate the birth of ThinkPad. The pioneering ThinkPad 700c notebook computer was launched on October 5, 1992. I dug around in my files and found a copy of the original advertisement that launched what would become an icon of business success . You can see the ad and read [...]
2011-09-13 17:30:
Lonnie Walker ready for action at Hopscotch The Hopscotch Music festival is the biggest thing to hit downtown Raleigh in years. This year, Lenovo was a major sponsor for the ever growing event. We even had a special lounge for people to gather, pretend to be a DJ, and sample Lenovo products. This link will [...]
For Those Who Do Hopscotch
Lonnie Walker ready for action at Hopscotch The Hopscotch Music festival is the biggest thing to hit downtown Raleigh in years. This year, Lenovo was a major sponsor for the ever growing event. We even had a special lounge for people to gather, pretend to be a DJ, and sample Lenovo products. This link will [...]
2011-09-08 17:21:
I really like this image from our new advertising campaign. I like it for how it positions the ThinkPad X1 as a machine for those who do, but I also like it for the motorcycle reference. The off road motorcycle shown is exactly like one of the bikes I personally own. You may recall I [...]
Is That My ThinkPad? Is That My Motorcycle?
I really like this image from our new advertising campaign. I like it for how it positions the ThinkPad X1 as a machine for those who do, but I also like it for the motorcycle reference. The off road motorcycle shown is exactly like one of the bikes I personally own. You may recall I [...]
2011-08-17 03:11:
A match made by design Have you ever been on a trip and wished you had your second monitor handy? I certainly have. A second monitor is so useful in today’s world that it’s hard to remember what it was like when I only had one. Fortunately, Lenovo has come to the rescue with the [...]
Monitor To Go Please
A match made by design Have you ever been on a trip and wished you had your second monitor handy? I certainly have. A second monitor is so useful in today’s world that it’s hard to remember what it was like when I only had one. Fortunately, Lenovo has come to the rescue with the [...]
2011-08-11 20:40:
I just learned that Rob Enderle, TechNewsWorld columnist and the principal analyst for the Enderle Group, just named the X1 his product of the week. Here is my favorite quote from his article. Scroll down for the product of the week write up. “Let’s call the Lenovo X1 the strongest argument against a post-PC world [...]
Rob Enderle?s Product of the Week: ThinkPad X1
I just learned that Rob Enderle, TechNewsWorld columnist and the principal analyst for the Enderle Group, just named the X1 his product of the week. Here is my favorite quote from his article. Scroll down for the product of the week write up. “Let’s call the Lenovo X1 the strongest argument against a post-PC world [...]
2011-08-05 18:58:
The ThinkPad X1 keyboard uses LED backlighting for illumination ThinkPad pioneered keyboard illumination when we introduced the iSeries way back in the year 2000. It seems like it was just yesterday that I was showing the prototype to the ThinkPad general manger in our photo studio. Incidentally, it was about the size of a small [...]
Keyboard Illumination: ThinkLight or Backlight?
The ThinkPad X1 keyboard uses LED backlighting for illumination ThinkPad pioneered keyboard illumination when we introduced the iSeries way back in the year 2000. It seems like it was just yesterday that I was showing the prototype to the ThinkPad general manger in our photo studio. Incidentally, it was about the size of a small [...]
2011-07-22 20:11:
The new ThinkPad tablet pays homage to the mother of all ThinkPads The wait is over. Lenovo introduced our new Android based ThinkPad tablet this week taking the brand full circle. It’s hard to believe that the first ThinkPad, introduced back in 1992, was a pen based tablet, but it was. The iconic ThinkPad 700c [...]
ThinkPad Tablet: Full Circle
The new ThinkPad tablet pays homage to the mother of all ThinkPads The wait is over. Lenovo introduced our new Android based ThinkPad tablet this week taking the brand full circle. It’s hard to believe that the first ThinkPad, introduced back in 1992, was a pen based tablet, but it was. The iconic ThinkPad 700c [...]
2011-07-07 19:37:
A tool that everyone understands and desires Designers are a unique lot, always interested in what’s new and what is old. I’m forever researching design classics for a historical perspective and studying new technologies, user behaviors, and demands as a source of design inspiration. Imagining the future is a complex and ongoing task. There are [...]
Power of the Pen
A tool that everyone understands and desires Designers are a unique lot, always interested in what’s new and what is old. I’m forever researching design classics for a historical perspective and studying new technologies, user behaviors, and demands as a source of design inspiration. Imagining the future is a complex and ongoing task. There are [...]
2011-06-20 21:54:
A lot has changed, but so much is the same Thanks to Gizmodo and Rachel Swaby for the nice piece about the design history of the ThinkPad 700c, and its connection to the recent IBM 100th birthday. You can read the complete article here. It contains lot of of interesting anecdotes and design stories to be [...]
Behind the Design of the Greatest Windows Laptop EVAHHHH!!!
A lot has changed, but so much is the same Thanks to Gizmodo and Rachel Swaby for the nice piece about the design history of the ThinkPad 700c, and its connection to the recent IBM 100th birthday. You can read the complete article here. It contains lot of of interesting anecdotes and design stories to be [...]
2011-05-17 19:47:
The ThinkPad X1 is the gold standard for typing excellence Today we officially launched the ThinkPad X1. Probably not the best kept secret, thanks to various leaks, but it is the best ThinkPad we have ever created. I love the way it blends business and entertainment technologies to deliver a ThinkPad for anyone demanding the best in [...]
ThinkPad X1: Designing the Ultimate Keyboard
The ThinkPad X1 is the gold standard for typing excellence Today we officially launched the ThinkPad X1. Probably not the best kept secret, thanks to various leaks, but it is the best ThinkPad we have ever created. I love the way it blends business and entertainment technologies to deliver a ThinkPad for anyone demanding the best in [...]
2011-05-09 23:15:
A crown befitting the king of pointing I read an interesting article written by Avran Piltch on the LAPTOP website called “Looking for the Nub: “Best and Worst Notebook Pointing Sticks”. The author compares ThinkPad, Toshiba, HP and Dell “nubs” and rank orders them based on pointing superiority. I love the question posed by Avran. ” So whose [...]
TrackPoint Cap Coronation
A crown befitting the king of pointing I read an interesting article written by Avran Piltch on the LAPTOP website called “Looking for the Nub: “Best and Worst Notebook Pointing Sticks”. The author compares ThinkPad, Toshiba, HP and Dell “nubs” and rank orders them based on pointing superiority. I love the question posed by Avran. ” So whose [...]
2011-05-03 18:58:
Design says it all for me The design gallery space in our Morrisville headquarters building has been a great improvement over any space I’ve ever used for displaying and presenting design. When I think back to some of the space we had at IBM, it makes me wince in pain. I wrote a blog about [...]
The Word is Design
Design says it all for me The design gallery space in our Morrisville headquarters building has been a great improvement over any space I’ve ever used for displaying and presenting design. When I think back to some of the space we had at IBM, it makes me wince in pain. I wrote a blog about [...]
2011-04-21 23:12:
Now that’s a tablet !!! Everyone is talking about tablets. Lately it seems everyone wants to talk about big ones, or at least rumors of one. I can’t even begin to count the number of times I’ve read articles that Lenovo is, or is not, building a 23″ version. At least it would never get lost between the sofa [...]
When Is Big, Too Big?
Now that’s a tablet !!! Everyone is talking about tablets. Lately it seems everyone wants to talk about big ones, or at least rumors of one. I can’t even begin to count the number of times I’ve read articles that Lenovo is, or is not, building a 23″ version. At least it would never get lost between the sofa [...]
2011-04-12 13:48:
Actual contents of my backpack. Is this too voyeuristic? I once wrote a blog about the thinking that goes into the design of our ThinkPad branded carrying cases. I hope you enjoyed the read. I stated that my favorite case, and the one I use daily, is the ThinkPad backpack. I like it because it neatly holds the things [...]
What?s In My Backpack
Actual contents of my backpack. Is this too voyeuristic? I once wrote a blog about the thinking that goes into the design of our ThinkPad branded carrying cases. I hope you enjoyed the read. I stated that my favorite case, and the one I use daily, is the ThinkPad backpack. I like it because it neatly holds the things [...]
2011-03-09 17:42:
Our X rated ThinkPad struts its stuff I’ve been reading some of the press comments over the last few days about our newly introduced ThinkPad X220, and I must say I am a bit overwhelmed. It’s not often that you see comments this dramatic in support of the work my team does. I thought [...]
ThinkPad X220: You Sexy Beast
Our X rated ThinkPad struts its stuff I’ve been reading some of the press comments over the last few days about our newly introduced ThinkPad X220, and I must say I am a bit overwhelmed. It’s not often that you see comments this dramatic in support of the work my team does. I thought [...]
2011-03-02 21:41:
Why are there so many differnt kinds of screws? Screws are one of the most highly used fasteners to assemble products today. There are many different styles of screws; allen head, torx, phillips head, square drive, slots, tamper proof, etc. etc. Screws have certainly stood the test of time, and allowed for invention. Personally, I like [...]
ThinkPad Screws Exposed
Why are there so many differnt kinds of screws? Screws are one of the most highly used fasteners to assemble products today. There are many different styles of screws; allen head, torx, phillips head, square drive, slots, tamper proof, etc. etc. Screws have certainly stood the test of time, and allowed for invention. Personally, I like [...]
2011-02-25 00:37:
Lightest ThinkPad ever? The space shuttle launched today on what may be its final mission. It’s hard to believe that the maiden flight took place way back in 1981. Coincidentally, it was the same year the first IBM personal computer was launched. A lot has certainly happened in the world since then not only in space exploration, but [...]
ThinkPads, Astronauts, and Robots
Lightest ThinkPad ever? The space shuttle launched today on what may be its final mission. It’s hard to believe that the maiden flight took place way back in 1981. Coincidentally, it was the same year the first IBM personal computer was launched. A lot has certainly happened in the world since then not only in space exploration, but [...]
2011-02-14 13:15:
Without a hat, is your profession on the radar? About a week ago I was having a business dinner with Marc Hoit, a recent acquaintance from North Carolina State University. He’s the Vice Chancellor for information technology and the CIO at the university. I can’t even imagine taking on this complex task for such a demanding [...]
Design Needs a Hat
Without a hat, is your profession on the radar? About a week ago I was having a business dinner with Marc Hoit, a recent acquaintance from North Carolina State University. He’s the Vice Chancellor for information technology and the CIO at the university. I can’t even imagine taking on this complex task for such a demanding [...]
2011-02-08 23:19:
The path of least resistence I recently listened to the user-advocate Don Norman give a talk about complexity and how it relates to design. If you’re not aware, Don wrote an interesting book on this topic last year called Living with Complexity. Don suggests that complexity is good and that simplicity is often misleading. Life is [...]
ThinkPad Desire Lines
The path of least resistence I recently listened to the user-advocate Don Norman give a talk about complexity and how it relates to design. If you’re not aware, Don wrote an interesting book on this topic last year called Living with Complexity. Don suggests that complexity is good and that simplicity is often misleading. Life is [...]
2011-01-18 22:31:
This historical bumper means business Cars today rarely have what I would call real bumpers. Chrome bumpers of the past have been replaced with painted plastic body panels that happen to be located where bumpers once lived. They’re more of an extension of the cars “lines” than an added design feature. I’m not sure how this global shift in [...]
Why Are Bumpers Chrome?
This historical bumper means business Cars today rarely have what I would call real bumpers. Chrome bumpers of the past have been replaced with painted plastic body panels that happen to be located where bumpers once lived. They’re more of an extension of the cars “lines” than an added design feature. I’m not sure how this global shift in [...]
2011-01-03 18:10:
Dr. Sapper in his full academic regalia Right before the holidays, Tom Takahashi and myself had the privilege of attending the ceremony for Richards receipt of an honorary doctorate from North Carolina State University. It was quite the affair with a dinner at the alumni center, robing ceremonies the next morning, photo sessions of the [...]
Dr. Sapper I Presume?
Dr. Sapper in his full academic regalia Right before the holidays, Tom Takahashi and myself had the privilege of attending the ceremony for Richards receipt of an honorary doctorate from North Carolina State University. It was quite the affair with a dinner at the alumni center, robing ceremonies the next morning, photo sessions of the [...]
2010-12-03 01:25:
I just got word from the Industrie Forum Design Hannover that the ThinkCentre M90z we designed has been honored with a 2011 design award. Out of a total of 2,756 entries by 1,121 participants from 43 countries, the jury of the iF product design award selected their 993 favorites. We’re very proud that our work was included in [...]
ThinkCentre Design Award: Ideas and Details Matter
I just got word from the Industrie Forum Design Hannover that the ThinkCentre M90z we designed has been honored with a 2011 design award. Out of a total of 2,756 entries by 1,121 participants from 43 countries, the jury of the iF product design award selected their 993 favorites. We’re very proud that our work was included in [...]
2010-11-11 17:00:
Communicate your commitment to usability by ordering your cap here Today is World Usability Day. It’s the day we should all help drive awareness for those designs, products, and services, that fascilitate and improve communication around the world. Here are the details surrounding this years theme as defined by the World Usability Day organization. Communication is the theme for [...]
2010 World Usability Day
Communicate your commitment to usability by ordering your cap here Today is World Usability Day. It’s the day we should all help drive awareness for those designs, products, and services, that fascilitate and improve communication around the world. Here are the details surrounding this years theme as defined by the World Usability Day organization. Communication is the theme for [...]
2010-11-11 17:00:
Communicate your commitment to usability by ordering your cap here Today is World Usability Day. It’s the day we should all help drive awareness for those designs, products, and services, that facilitate and improve communication around the world. Here are the details surrounding this years theme as defined by the World Usability Day organization. Communication is the theme for [...]
World Usability Day 2010
Communicate your commitment to usability by ordering your cap here Today is World Usability Day. It’s the day we should all help drive awareness for those designs, products, and services, that facilitate and improve communication around the world. Here are the details surrounding this years theme as defined by the World Usability Day organization. Communication is the theme for [...]
2010-10-18 17:55:
“Here I show off my T400 with the laptop that started it all for me, the 560″ Gregory Costa As promised, here is a blog about the responses I received regarding my request for stories and images about other peoples first ThinkPads. It was great reading them and reliving your memories on the road to 60 million ThinkPads. [...]
One Man?s Trash is Another Man?s Treasure
“Here I show off my T400 with the laptop that started it all for me, the 560″ Gregory Costa As promised, here is a blog about the responses I received regarding my request for stories and images about other peoples first ThinkPads. It was great reading them and reliving your memories on the road to 60 million ThinkPads. [...]
2010-10-05 03:41:
If you stacked 60 million TrackPoint caps, one on top of the other, the stack would be 224 miles high This month we will sell our 60 millionth ThinkPad. What better day to mark this milestone, than the day we officially celebrate the birth of ThinkPad. 18 years ago today, the ThinkPad 700c was introduced to the [...]
60 Million ThinkPads and Counting
If you stacked 60 million TrackPoint caps, one on top of the other, the stack would be 224 miles high This month we will sell our 60 millionth ThinkPad. What better day to mark this milestone, than the day we officially celebrate the birth of ThinkPad. 18 years ago today, the ThinkPad 700c was introduced to the [...]
2010-09-28 21:24:
Which cap provides the most traction? I just read an amazing story about how researchers at the University of Utah have been studying devices on steering wheels that would help the hearing impaired drive a car. The driver’s index fingertips rest on two ThinkPad TrackPoint caps that move left or right by a millimeter to indicate which way to [...]
Steering With a TrackPoint Cap?
Which cap provides the most traction? I just read an amazing story about how researchers at the University of Utah have been studying devices on steering wheels that would help the hearing impaired drive a car. The driver’s index fingertips rest on two ThinkPad TrackPoint caps that move left or right by a millimeter to indicate which way to [...]
2010-09-24 14:37:
Clean airy lines and striking simplicity dominate I’ve been very busy lately working on next generation ThinkPad design. So busy, in fact, that I’ve had to take a short break from blogging. Don’t worry, more posts are coming from me very soon. Today, however I learned of the passing of design great David Rowland and feel compelled [...]
The Passing of David Rowland
Clean airy lines and striking simplicity dominate I’ve been very busy lately working on next generation ThinkPad design. So busy, in fact, that I’ve had to take a short break from blogging. Don’t worry, more posts are coming from me very soon. Today, however I learned of the passing of design great David Rowland and feel compelled [...]
2010-08-18 04:00:
The net gen has significant influence on the world of technology and design People have been talking about the generation gap for many years. I remember my parents telling my sister to turn down her record player like it was yesterday. Herman’s Hermits, the Beatles, and other British bands had clearly invaded more than America, they invaded the Hill [...]
Net Gen and Design
The net gen has significant influence on the world of technology and design People have been talking about the generation gap for many years. I remember my parents telling my sister to turn down her record player like it was yesterday. Herman’s Hermits, the Beatles, and other British bands had clearly invaded more than America, they invaded the Hill [...]
2010-07-23 06:25:
Aluring design, or best kept in the tacklebox ? Lately there seems to be two schools of thought concerning the design of notebook computers. One is the modernist approach of simplification, proportion, quality materials, authenticity of form, and an aesthetic that supports rather than dominates your world. Dieter Rams, of Braun fame, has talked often about [...]
Fishing Lure Syndrome
Aluring design, or best kept in the tacklebox ? Lately there seems to be two schools of thought concerning the design of notebook computers. One is the modernist approach of simplification, proportion, quality materials, authenticity of form, and an aesthetic that supports rather than dominates your world. Dieter Rams, of Braun fame, has talked often about [...]
2010-07-21 02:35:
Maybe I should have said better taste, less filling. If you’re a frequent Design Matters reader, you probably noticed the new design we rolled out yesterday. It’s been 4 years since we first launched Design Matters as Lenovo’s first blog. It’s hard to member exactly what other things we were working on way back in 2006. [...]
Blog Design Update
Maybe I should have said better taste, less filling. If you’re a frequent Design Matters reader, you probably noticed the new design we rolled out yesterday. It’s been 4 years since we first launched Design Matters as Lenovo’s first blog. It’s hard to member exactly what other things we were working on way back in 2006. [...]
2010-07-15 18:25:
I recently made a short video describing how, and why, we created the texture for our latest ThinkPad touchpads. I wrote a detailed blog on this topic a few months ago. I hope you enjoy this behind the scenes look at the inspiration and detailed thought that goes into a Thinkpad. David Hill
Behind the Scenes: Touchpad Inspiration
I recently made a short video describing how, and why, we created the texture for our latest ThinkPad touchpads. I wrote a detailed blog on this topic a few months ago. I hope you enjoy this behind the scenes look at the inspiration and detailed thought that goes into a Thinkpad. David Hill
2010-06-29 14:16:
Today is World Industrial Design Day. Industrial designers from around the globe should be celebrating in the streets. Seriously, it’s great to see the focus on using design talent for such important causes. Here are the details directly from the ICSID website: In celebration of World Industrial Design Day on 29 June 2010, the International Council [...]
World Industrial Design Day 2010
Today is World Industrial Design Day. Industrial designers from around the globe should be celebrating in the streets. Seriously, it’s great to see the focus on using design talent for such important causes. Here are the details directly from the ICSID website: In celebration of World Industrial Design Day on 29 June 2010, the International Council [...]
2010-06-25 04:10:
Dairy farmer surveys his new IBM friends/neighbors in Rochester Minnesota Today was my 25th service anniversary working for IBM/Lenovo. Amazing how fast the time has flown by. It seems like only yesterday I attended the new employee orientation at IBM in Rochester Minnesota. I’m pretty sure it was snowing. I’ve designed, or led the design of nearly [...]
25 Years: So Many Friends
Dairy farmer surveys his new IBM friends/neighbors in Rochester Minnesota Today was my 25th service anniversary working for IBM/Lenovo. Amazing how fast the time has flown by. It seems like only yesterday I attended the new employee orientation at IBM in Rochester Minnesota. I’m pretty sure it was snowing. I’ve designed, or led the design of nearly [...]
2010-06-25 04:10:
Dairy farmer surveys his new IBM friends/neighbors in Rochester, Minnesota Today was my 25th service anniversary working for IBM/Lenovo. Incredible how fast the time has flown by. It seems like only yesterday I attended the new employee orientation at IBM in Rochester, Minnesota. I’m pretty sure it was snowing. I’ve designed, or led the design of nearly [...]
25 Years, So Many Friends
Dairy farmer surveys his new IBM friends/neighbors in Rochester, Minnesota Today was my 25th service anniversary working for IBM/Lenovo. Incredible how fast the time has flown by. It seems like only yesterday I attended the new employee orientation at IBM in Rochester, Minnesota. I’m pretty sure it was snowing. I’ve designed, or led the design of nearly [...]
2010-06-15 19:17:
If you are at all like me, you have more than one AC adapter for your ThinkPad. To be honest, I think I probably have more than the total number of ThinkPad notebooks I have ever owned. That is a big number. Some people refer to these neccessities of technology as wall warts, I prefer to call [...]
Another Brick in the Wall
If you are at all like me, you have more than one AC adapter for your ThinkPad. To be honest, I think I probably have more than the total number of ThinkPad notebooks I have ever owned. That is a big number. Some people refer to these neccessities of technology as wall warts, I prefer to call [...]
2010-06-15 19:17:
If you are at all like me, you have more than one AC adapter for your ThinkPad. To be honest, I think I probably have more than the total number of ThinkPad notebooks I have ever owned. That is a big number. Some people refer to these neccessities of technology as wall warts, I prefer to call [...]
ThinkPad: Another Brick in the Wall
If you are at all like me, you have more than one AC adapter for your ThinkPad. To be honest, I think I probably have more than the total number of ThinkPad notebooks I have ever owned. That is a big number. Some people refer to these neccessities of technology as wall warts, I prefer to call [...]
2010-05-26 13:20:
Watch the video to see more about the design of the ThinkCentre M90z We’ve been working on a really cool ThinkCentre all-in-one that will be announced in the very near future. Sorry I can’t give you an exact date. Like all good design, the journey starts and ends with the customer. Here is a sneak peek video about the [...]
ThinkCentre Design Sneak Peek
Watch the video to see more about the design of the ThinkCentre M90z We’ve been working on a really cool ThinkCentre all-in-one that will be announced in the very near future. Sorry I can’t give you an exact date. Like all good design, the journey starts and ends with the customer. Here is a sneak peek video about the [...]
2010-05-05 02:11:
The classic Stendig calendar is one of my favorites It’s been five years since the monumental acquisition of IBM’s personal computer business by Lenovo. I can still remember the day it was announced. High powered IBMer’s were struggling to explain the deal with charts so complex that only the person who made the presentation could possibly [...]
5 Years, 5 ThinkPad?s.
The classic Stendig calendar is one of my favorites It’s been five years since the monumental acquisition of IBM’s personal computer business by Lenovo. I can still remember the day it was announced. High powered IBMer’s were struggling to explain the deal with charts so complex that only the person who made the presentation could possibly [...]
2010-05-05 02:11:
The classic Stendig calendar is one of my favorites It’s been five years since the monumental acquisition of IBM’s personal computer business by Lenovo. I can still remember the day it was announced. High powered IBMer’s were struggling to explain the deal with charts so complex that only the person who made the presentation could possibly [...]
5 Years, 5 ThinkPads.
The classic Stendig calendar is one of my favorites It’s been five years since the monumental acquisition of IBM’s personal computer business by Lenovo. I can still remember the day it was announced. High powered IBMer’s were struggling to explain the deal with charts so complex that only the person who made the presentation could possibly [...]
2010-04-08 19:07:
For many, the Lucigraph earned the nick name “Lazy Lucy” Having worked in the design field for well over 25 years, I’ve seen many design tools come and go. When I first started my career most of the design work was done with devices and gizmos that many people today would not even recognize. Except of course for pencils and [...]
Drawing Design
For many, the Lucigraph earned the nick name “Lazy Lucy” Having worked in the design field for well over 25 years, I’ve seen many design tools come and go. When I first started my career most of the design work was done with devices and gizmos that many people today would not even recognize. Except of course for pencils and [...]
2010-03-29 16:29:
I immediately know what needs to be pulled on this one My last blog, about pulling the pin, certainly generated lots of interest and ideas on how to solve the monitor set-up problem. It’s great so many people share my passion for solving these kinds of design dilemmas. After sorting through the comments, I asked my team [...]
Pins, Pull Starters, and Ribbons
I immediately know what needs to be pulled on this one My last blog, about pulling the pin, certainly generated lots of interest and ideas on how to solve the monitor set-up problem. It’s great so many people share my passion for solving these kinds of design dilemmas. After sorting through the comments, I asked my team [...]
2010-03-23 00:29:
I’m sure everyone has seen those cliche complaint department signs that ask you to take a number so that your displeasure can be registered, heard, and acted upon by the appropriate corporate owner. Just to be funny, the number is connected to the pin of a simulated hand grenade. I can certainly sympathize with the concept, nobody [...]
Please Pull The Pin
I’m sure everyone has seen those cliche complaint department signs that ask you to take a number so that your displeasure can be registered, heard, and acted upon by the appropriate corporate owner. Just to be funny, the number is connected to the pin of a simulated hand grenade. I can certainly sympathize with the concept, nobody [...]
2010-03-15 13:38:
Kansas backroads haven’t changed much since I lived there 30 years ago This must be the year of the podcast. I just finished another one where I was interviewed about my design background, what I did at IBM, and what I do at Lenovo. My design roots stretch back to studying architecture in Oklahoma and ultimately [...]
UXDesignCast Podcast: Kansas, Design, and Lenovo
Kansas backroads haven’t changed much since I lived there 30 years ago This must be the year of the podcast. I just finished another one where I was interviewed about my design background, what I did at IBM, and what I do at Lenovo. My design roots stretch back to studying architecture in Oklahoma and ultimately [...]
2010-03-15 13:38:
Kansas backroads haven’t changed much since I lived there 30 years ago. Thanks to David Rush for the photo. This must be the year of the podcast. I just finished another one where I was interviewed about my design education/background, what I did at IBM, and what I do at Lenovo. My design educational roots stretch [...]
UXDesignCast Podcast: Kansas,Design,and Lenovo
Kansas backroads haven’t changed much since I lived there 30 years ago. Thanks to David Rush for the photo. This must be the year of the podcast. I just finished another one where I was interviewed about my design education/background, what I did at IBM, and what I do at Lenovo. My design educational roots stretch [...]
2010-03-04 21:53:
The Heuer Microsplit meets ThinkPad Nearly 20 years before Richard Sapper created the simple black box that would become ThinkPad, he had already made design magic with a very similar idea. It too was a simple black box, but for a totally different company and product category. The design was created for Jack Heuer back in 1974 [...]
Before There Was ThinkPad
The Heuer Microsplit meets ThinkPad Nearly 20 years before Richard Sapper created the simple black box that would become ThinkPad, he had already made design magic with a very similar idea. It too was a simple black box, but for a totally different company and product category. The design was created for Jack Heuer back in 1974 [...]
2010-03-02 20:06:
I recently did a podcast with Information & Design founder Gerry Gaffney. Operating out of Australia, Information & Design is an innovative usability and user experience consulting firm. Not to suprisingly, Gerry is also a big ThinkPad fan. I thought you would find the content regarding the evolution of ThinkPad interesting. You can read the transcript, or give it a [...]
Podcast: ThinkPad?s Evolution Design Strategy
I recently did a podcast with Information & Design founder Gerry Gaffney. Operating out of Australia, Information & Design is an innovative usability and user experience consulting firm. Not to suprisingly, Gerry is also a big ThinkPad fan. I thought you would find the content regarding the evolution of ThinkPad interesting. You can read the transcript, or give it a [...]
2010-02-25 21:39:
On it’s own it may not be pretty, but it certainly works! If you’re a power user like me you never seem to stray too far from your ThinkPad. I use mine for more hours a day than I honestly care to admit. Battery life is of great importance to me. I’ve never been a big fan [...]
Keeping the Power Outlet at Bay
On it’s own it may not be pretty, but it certainly works! If you’re a power user like me you never seem to stray too far from your ThinkPad. I use mine for more hours a day than I honestly care to admit. Battery life is of great importance to me. I’ve never been a big fan [...]
2010-02-17 17:39:
First Grade at Ranch Heights in Bartlesville Oklahoma Way back in 1963 I ventured out from the security of the nest to experience first grade at Ranch Heights Elementary School. It was a big deal for certain. Who were all those new people? Why were we made to go there? Wasn’t it more comfortable at home? Were we really [...]
My First Tablet
First Grade at Ranch Heights in Bartlesville Oklahoma Way back in 1963 I ventured out from the security of the nest to experience first grade at Ranch Heights Elementary School. It was a big deal for certain. Who were all those new people? Why were we made to go there? Wasn’t it more comfortable at home? Were we really [...]
2010-02-09 00:37:
I was just in Japan for a week working on our future generation ThinkPad offerings. I met Richard Sapper there along with Aaron Stewart from my North Carolina based design team. The trip there was a lengthy 24 hours door to door, including a 13 hour torture test of an airline seat. When I arrived at [...]
Japan and Back
I was just in Japan for a week working on our future generation ThinkPad offerings. I met Richard Sapper there along with Aaron Stewart from my North Carolina based design team. The trip there was a lengthy 24 hours door to door, including a 13 hour torture test of an airline seat. When I arrived at [...]
2010-01-22 03:16:
Is it possible to out shine Vegas? Lenovo made a huge splash at CES with great new ThinkPads, IdeaPads, and award winning paradigm shifting products that turned heads. The IdeaPad U1 and SkyLight smartbook are wonderful examples where Lenovo invented new computing categories. But this wasn’t just a Lenovo technology prowess show, our design innovation was everywhere. Making such an impression at [...]
Setting the Stage at CES
Is it possible to out shine Vegas? Lenovo made a huge splash at CES with great new ThinkPads, IdeaPads, and award winning paradigm shifting products that turned heads. The IdeaPad U1 and SkyLight smartbook are wonderful examples where Lenovo invented new computing categories. But this wasn’t just a Lenovo technology prowess show, our design innovation was everywhere. Making such an impression at [...]
2010-01-14 15:51:
Back in November of 2008, I first learned of the Lenovo super secret project that would eventually become the Skylight smartbook . It sounded fascinating to me that we would attempt to create an entirely new offering category in the computer space. I could only imagine a device that would behave similar to a smart phone, but be of a size and [...]
Sapper, Stradivarius and Skylight
Back in November of 2008, I first learned of the Lenovo super secret project that would eventually become the Skylight smartbook . It sounded fascinating to me that we would attempt to create an entirely new offering category in the computer space. I could only imagine a device that would behave similar to a smart phone, but be of a size and [...]
2010-01-05 22:40:
ThinkPad T410 Even though there is considerable buzz about the ThinkPad Edge line, lets not forget our heritage. We just announced four new ThinkPad classic offerings continuing the legacy of design and technology innovation for business. The T410s, T410, T510 and the W510 workstation are all new models with enhancements to processor performance, battery life and wireless technologies. You can [...]
New ThinkPad Classics
ThinkPad T410 Even though there is considerable buzz about the ThinkPad Edge line, lets not forget our heritage. We just announced four new ThinkPad classic offerings continuing the legacy of design and technology innovation for business. The T410s, T410, T510 and the W510 workstation are all new models with enhancements to processor performance, battery life and wireless technologies. You can [...]
2010-01-04 18:06:
ThinkPad Edge 13″ Lenovo is starting the decade out right with the announcement of two new ThinkPads. I made a couple of short videos that talk about the design thinking that went into each of them. I plan to write a few blogs during the next week or so with more details about keyboards, the color red, and something [...]
New Decade. New ThinkPads.
ThinkPad Edge 13″ Lenovo is starting the decade out right with the announcement of two new ThinkPads. I made a couple of short videos that talk about the design thinking that went into each of them. I plan to write a few blogs during the next week or so with more details about keyboards, the color red, and something [...]
2009-12-17 19:32:
Can an inch really make a difference? Two of my favorite leadership ThinkPad offerings have been the X300 and the T400s. We used our best technology, engineering, and design talent, to create some of most amazing ThinkPad’s ever made. Even though one is called an X and the other T, they are in some ways quite similar. They both [...]
Give or Take an Inch?
Can an inch really make a difference? Two of my favorite leadership ThinkPad offerings have been the X300 and the T400s. We used our best technology, engineering, and design talent, to create some of most amazing ThinkPad’s ever made. Even though one is called an X and the other T, they are in some ways quite similar. They both [...]
2009-12-16 16:49:
Zero Fireplace is anything but a zero Lately I’ve been twittering what I have chosen to call ”The Design of the Day”. Yes, my interest in design is far deeper than just computers. Design is a career, a hobby, and a way of life. My intent is to tweet a new design on a daily basis. Don’t expect to see a [...]
Twittering the Design of the Day
Zero Fireplace is anything but a zero Lately I’ve been twittering what I have chosen to call ”The Design of the Day”. Yes, my interest in design is far deeper than just computers. Design is a career, a hobby, and a way of life. My intent is to tweet a new design on a daily basis. Don’t expect to see a [...]
2009-12-08 19:14:
I just got word from the Industrie Forum Design Hannover that the ThinkPad USB secure hardfile we designed has been honored witih a 2010 design award. This year 778 products were awarded from a total field of 2,486 submissions. Entrants from 39 different countries, competed for the coveted iF product design award. I love this product [...]
2010 Industrie Forum Design Award
I just got word from the Industrie Forum Design Hannover that the ThinkPad USB secure hardfile we designed has been honored witih a 2010 design award. This year 778 products were awarded from a total field of 2,486 submissions. Entrants from 39 different countries, competed for the coveted iF product design award. I love this product [...]
2009-12-02 17:42:
AC adapters are an ever increasing part of our lives. Cell phones, digital cameras, GPS devices, MP3 players, and of course laptop computers all use them. I personally have at least a dozen in my house, most are ThinkPad adapters which are deployed in critical spots to power my T400s. I also have a four or five [...]
Time to Unwind
AC adapters are an ever increasing part of our lives. Cell phones, digital cameras, GPS devices, MP3 players, and of course laptop computers all use them. I personally have at least a dozen in my house, most are ThinkPad adapters which are deployed in critical spots to power my T400s. I also have a four or five [...]
2009-11-18 22:28:
Trivia question: Where is Einstein’s brain today? Sketching, and diagraming, are very important tools for the designer. This hasn’t changed for centuries. Cavemen drew pictures, Einstein drew formulas, designers draw everything you can imagine. There is a clever site where you can pretend to be Einstein at the board, totally hilarious. Drawing is a tool for both communication [...]
It?s Black and White?
Trivia question: Where is Einstein’s brain today? Sketching, and diagraming, are very important tools for the designer. This hasn’t changed for centuries. Cavemen drew pictures, Einstein drew formulas, designers draw everything you can imagine. There is a clever site where you can pretend to be Einstein at the board, totally hilarious. Drawing is a tool for both communication [...]
2009-11-06 02:40:
ThinkCentre A70z with chrome wire form stand It’s been a while since we got to design and introduce an all-in-one computer targeted at the business user. Lately we have been designing primarily towers and pancakes of various sizes. My team pioneered this category way back in the year 1999 with the watershed design of the NetVista X40. The head turning [...]
The Return of the Business Class All-in-One
ThinkCentre A70z with chrome wire form stand It’s been a while since we got to design and introduce an all-in-one computer targeted at the business user. Lately we have been designing primarily towers and pancakes of various sizes. My team pioneered this category way back in the year 1999 with the watershed design of the NetVista X40. The head turning [...]
2009-11-05 16:26:
Check out the Yamato Thinking blog for details on what Lenovo is doing with regard to the Fn/Ctrl debate. Thanks for all the feedback that has led us to take this action. David Hill
Switch Mode for Fn/Ctrl Keys: Follow-up From Yamato
Check out the Yamato Thinking blog for details on what Lenovo is doing with regard to the Fn/Ctrl debate. Thanks for all the feedback that has led us to take this action. David Hill
2009-10-31 11:59:
One of the designers on my team shot this entertaining video out the 5th floor window of a “giant spider” attacking Lenovo. I thought this was a fitting Halloween blog. Thank goodness the people in the crosswalk were able to escape unharmed. Happy Halloween. David Hill
Giant Spider Attacks Lenovo
One of the designers on my team shot this entertaining video out the 5th floor window of a “giant spider” attacking Lenovo. I thought this was a fitting Halloween blog. Thank goodness the people in the crosswalk were able to escape unharmed. Happy Halloween. David Hill
2009-10-31 11:59:
One of the designers on my team shot this entertaining video out the 5th floor window of a “giant spider” attacking Lenovo. I thought this was a fitting Halloween blog. Thank goodness the people in the crosswalk were able to escape unharmed. Happy Halloween. David Hill
Giant Spider Attacks Lenovo?
One of the designers on my team shot this entertaining video out the 5th floor window of a “giant spider” attacking Lenovo. I thought this was a fitting Halloween blog. Thank goodness the people in the crosswalk were able to escape unharmed. Happy Halloween. David Hill
2009-10-20 22:09:
ThinkVision L2251x Wide Monitor Today Lenovo unveiled five new ThinkVision monitors that take “green” design and user critical ergonomics to a new level. The new line-up includes Lenovo’s flagship ThinkVision L2251x wide monitor, the company’s most environmentally-responsible monitor. The innovative L2251x is the world’s first PC monitor to be TCO Certified Edge. In case you have not heard [...]
Think Green, ThinkVision, Think Lenovo
ThinkVision L2251x Wide Monitor Today Lenovo unveiled five new ThinkVision monitors that take “green” design and user critical ergonomics to a new level. The new line-up includes Lenovo’s flagship ThinkVision L2251x wide monitor, the company’s most environmentally-responsible monitor. The innovative L2251x is the world’s first PC monitor to be TCO Certified Edge. In case you have not heard [...]
2009-10-09 15:11:
The ongoing saga of the ThinkPad external keyboard design has been very entertaining to follow. Blog statistics and media reaction would suggest that I am far from being the only one interested in this hot topic. SInce I last blogged about our newly introduced keyboard, and the “crowd sourced” methodology we used to design it, I’ve seen [...]
Wireless ThinkPad Keyboard. The People?s Choice?
The ongoing saga of the ThinkPad external keyboard design has been very entertaining to follow. Blog statistics and media reaction would suggest that I am far from being the only one interested in this hot topic. SInce I last blogged about our newly introduced keyboard, and the “crowd sourced” methodology we used to design it, I’ve seen [...]
2009-10-07 16:50:
Barbour International Jacket A recent trip to participate in a vintage off road motorcycle race prompted me to write another of my design classic blog postings. Riding vintage race bikes through the woods in the cool of the morning brings out the best in riders and their riding gear. Many of the participants elect to wear [...]
Design Classics: Barbour International Jacket
Barbour International Jacket A recent trip to participate in a vintage off road motorcycle race prompted me to write another of my design classic blog postings. Riding vintage race bikes through the woods in the cool of the morning brings out the best in riders and their riding gear. Many of the participants elect to wear [...]
2009-09-30 23:34:
For those of you who don’t already know, I decided to join the world of Twitter. This new tool will give me a chance to share my brief thoughts on design to a even broader audience. So far I’ve written 4 design related tweets. If you are so inclined you can follow me here. http://www.twitter.com/dwhilldesign David Hill
Follow Me
For those of you who don’t already know, I decided to join the world of Twitter. This new tool will give me a chance to share my brief thoughts on design to a even broader audience. So far I’ve written 4 design related tweets. If you are so inclined you can follow me here. http://www.twitter.com/dwhilldesign David Hill
2009-09-25 14:25:
I recently saw a presentation by designer, brand strategist, and author Marc Gobe of Emotional Branding notoriety where he claimed the true test of a powerful brand is whether or not it has a brand promise that is “twitterable”. It ’s an interesting point of view that certainly caught my interest. Twitter, the free social networking and micro-blog service, continues to [...]
Can You Twitter Your Brand Promise?
I recently saw a presentation by designer, brand strategist, and author Marc Gobe of Emotional Branding notoriety where he claimed the true test of a powerful brand is whether or not it has a brand promise that is “twitterable”. It ’s an interesting point of view that certainly caught my interest. Twitter, the free social networking and micro-blog service, continues to [...]
2009-09-22 13:00:
Guest blogger, Aaron Stewart, Human Factors Engineer, speaks out about SimpleTap. I want to thank him for sharing his thoughts with the Design Matters audience. David When I meet someone new, I often wonder what they think when I tell them I am a human factors engineer. Some seemingly wonder what exactly it is that I factor about humans. [...]
Putting Fun In Function
Guest blogger, Aaron Stewart, Human Factors Engineer, speaks out about SimpleTap. I want to thank him for sharing his thoughts with the Design Matters audience. David When I meet someone new, I often wonder what they think when I tell them I am a human factors engineer. Some seemingly wonder what exactly it is that I factor about humans. [...]
2009-09-15 12:27:
SimpleTap application shown on the new X200 tablet Following up on my last blog about touch, today we introduced unique versions of the ThinkPad X200 tablet and the T400s notebook that include optional multitouch technology. People can now interact with their ThinkPad in a more personal way using this technology. It’s hard to get more personal than touch. The highly mobile ThinkPad x200 [...]
Touch Is a Natural
SimpleTap application shown on the new X200 tablet Following up on my last blog about touch, today we introduced unique versions of the ThinkPad X200 tablet and the T400s notebook that include optional multitouch technology. People can now interact with their ThinkPad in a more personal way using this technology. It’s hard to get more personal than touch. The highly mobile ThinkPad x200 [...]
2009-09-09 21:04:
Weekend Update Megapixel Giant Touch Map Touch interfaces seem to be showing up on more and more products. ATM machines, elevators, GPS navigational devices, airplane seat mounted displays, gas pumps, airport check in kiosks, phones and even television news programming are exploiting this rapidly evolving interaction model. SNL’s Weekend Update couldn’t resist spoofing the use of giant screen multitouch interfaces [...]
Touched by Technology
Weekend Update Megapixel Giant Touch Map Touch interfaces seem to be showing up on more and more products. ATM machines, elevators, GPS navigational devices, airplane seat mounted displays, gas pumps, airport check in kiosks, phones and even television news programming are exploiting this rapidly evolving interaction model. SNL’s Weekend Update couldn’t resist spoofing the use of giant screen multitouch interfaces [...]
2009-09-02 19:27:
Back in December of last year I posted a blog and related survey on Design Matters concerning our in market external ThinkPad keyboard. I’ve used one for years on my desk. The blog was very popular generating over 100 comments. The related survey probed on things like touchpad vs. TrackPoint use, palmrest depth, overall typing touch and feel, and the [...]
The Keyboard You Helped Design
Back in December of last year I posted a blog and related survey on Design Matters concerning our in market external ThinkPad keyboard. I’ve used one for years on my desk. The blog was very popular generating over 100 comments. The related survey probed on things like touchpad vs. TrackPoint use, palmrest depth, overall typing touch and feel, and the [...]
2009-08-26 23:41:
ThinkPad sleeve For years I’ve tried to find a nice simple sleeve for my ThinkPad. I like them because they offer very convenient protection for those trips where a traditional carry case and all the assorted compartments just aren’t needed. You would think that finding a simple sleeve design would be easy, but it isn’t. Most sleeves are offered [...]
Stop Going Sleeveless
ThinkPad sleeve For years I’ve tried to find a nice simple sleeve for my ThinkPad. I like them because they offer very convenient protection for those trips where a traditional carry case and all the assorted compartments just aren’t needed. You would think that finding a simple sleeve design would be easy, but it isn’t. Most sleeves are offered [...]
2009-08-21 14:36:
Family of ThinkPad cases ThinkPad carry cases are a special kind of “software” design that my team supports. Forget pixels, icons, scrolling and clicking. This is more about fabric, straps, zippers and snaps. The design requirements and constraints for carry cases are also very different from the typical hardware or GUI project. By comparison lead times are quite [...]
ThinkPad Case Study
Family of ThinkPad cases ThinkPad carry cases are a special kind of “software” design that my team supports. Forget pixels, icons, scrolling and clicking. This is more about fabric, straps, zippers and snaps. The design requirements and constraints for carry cases are also very different from the typical hardware or GUI project. By comparison lead times are quite [...]
2009-08-17 17:18:
Sapper, Calder, and Rand surround me A few people have asked to see some images of where I work. They want to see my desk, what I have on my walls, my computer set up, and other such things. I’m both surprised and flattered that anyone would care. So here it is. My desk is clearly the most [...]
Where I Think
Sapper, Calder, and Rand surround me A few people have asked to see some images of where I work. They want to see my desk, what I have on my walls, my computer set up, and other such things. I’m both surprised and flattered that anyone would care. So here it is. My desk is clearly the most [...]
2009-08-12 18:53:
ThinkPad USB port replicator with digital video If you saw my desk at work you would find a stack of action items, pencil drawn concept sketches, and a zillion notes to myself. In addition to this typical executive/designer stuff, I also have a a large ThinkVision monitor, an external ThinkPad keyboard, a set of great looking speakers, [...]
Design Connections
ThinkPad USB port replicator with digital video If you saw my desk at work you would find a stack of action items, pencil drawn concept sketches, and a zillion notes to myself. In addition to this typical executive/designer stuff, I also have a a large ThinkVision monitor, an external ThinkPad keyboard, a set of great looking speakers, [...]
2009-07-29 20:09:
Graphical symbols have been used for decades to label knobs, buttons, switches, and of course connectors. This is not just a computer phenomenon. I first became aware of product related symbols on my Dad’s 1969 Volkswagen Beetle. I’m sure Volkswagen decided to use symbols for the same reason we do. Symbols are a very cost effective alternative [...]
Symbolism in Design
Graphical symbols have been used for decades to label knobs, buttons, switches, and of course connectors. This is not just a computer phenomenon. I first became aware of product related symbols on my Dad’s 1969 Volkswagen Beetle. I’m sure Volkswagen decided to use symbols for the same reason we do. Symbols are a very cost effective alternative [...]
2009-07-17 18:38:
There have been many comments over the last few weeks, fueled I suppose by the T400s keyboard update, regarding the positioning of the Fn and Ctrl keys on ThinkPad. Any long time ThinkPad fan will know the Fn key has been in the extreme lower left hand corner with the Ctrl key right next door for [...]
Fn Versus Ctrl: Let the Games Begin
There have been many comments over the last few weeks, fueled I suppose by the T400s keyboard update, regarding the positioning of the Fn and Ctrl keys on ThinkPad. Any long time ThinkPad fan will know the Fn key has been in the extreme lower left hand corner with the Ctrl key right next door for [...]
2009-07-15 19:55:
I mentioned in the T400s sneak peek video that we had tightened up the tolerances between the keys to improve the overall system appearance and reduce the likelyhood of crumbs, or other debris, from slipping into the keyboard scissor mechanisms. We did not do this at the expense of changing the key pitch or altering the contoured portion of [...]
A Tolerance for Crumbs
I mentioned in the T400s sneak peek video that we had tightened up the tolerances between the keys to improve the overall system appearance and reduce the likelyhood of crumbs, or other debris, from slipping into the keyboard scissor mechanisms. We did not do this at the expense of changing the key pitch or altering the contoured portion of [...]
2009-07-08 17:19:
T400s control design with microphone mute indicator illuminated Over the last 17 years we have continued to evolve the method of controlling important functions such as speaker volume and mute. Historically, these controls have been delicate sliders, embedded in the keyboard as a Fn fucntion, domed shiny black buttons, domed matte silver buttons, and most recently a [...]
The Push for Innovation
T400s control design with microphone mute indicator illuminated Over the last 17 years we have continued to evolve the method of controlling important functions such as speaker volume and mute. Historically, these controls have been delicate sliders, embedded in the keyboard as a Fn fucntion, domed shiny black buttons, domed matte silver buttons, and most recently a [...]
2009-07-01 12:51:
Detail of the T400s touchpad tactile cue feature Touchpad texture has gone relatively unnoticed in the world of ThinkPad design, and perhaps the industry in general. TrackPoint fans still wonder why we include a pad at all, and would not likely contemplate the advantage a texture could create for those who use them. If you are a [...]
Touchpad, Tenji, and Tactile Cues
Detail of the T400s touchpad tactile cue feature Touchpad texture has gone relatively unnoticed in the world of ThinkPad design, and perhaps the industry in general. TrackPoint fans still wonder why we include a pad at all, and would not likely contemplate the advantage a texture could create for those who use them. If you are a [...]
2009-06-24 20:01:
I thought it would be useful to follow up on the sneak peek blog I published earlier in the week with more information . Now that the product has officially announced, I can share a lot more of the research methodology and creative thinking that drove the changes to the keyboard. The video is just too short [...]
ThinkPad T400s: Key to a Better Experience
I thought it would be useful to follow up on the sneak peek blog I published earlier in the week with more information . Now that the product has officially announced, I can share a lot more of the research methodology and creative thinking that drove the changes to the keyboard. The video is just too short [...]
2009-06-19 21:55:
It’s not often that we give the public a sneak peek at a forthcoming ThinkPad. Typically we’ve kept our cards pretty close to the vest on this topic. I personally like the updates we have made so much I just can’t resist breaking the rules. Here is a short video we made that shows a [...]
ThinkPad Design Sneak Peek
It’s not often that we give the public a sneak peek at a forthcoming ThinkPad. Typically we’ve kept our cards pretty close to the vest on this topic. I personally like the updates we have made so much I just can’t resist breaking the rules. Here is a short video we made that shows a [...]
2009-06-10 22:47:
Lately I have been seeing some competitive machines in the 15″ wide aspect ratio category adding a dedicated number pad. Not sure if they are doing this because they are trying to fill up the negative space, or if they think there is a true user benefit. Adding one increases cost, and adds some weight, but [...]
Number Pads on ThinkPads?
Lately I have been seeing some competitive machines in the 15″ wide aspect ratio category adding a dedicated number pad. Not sure if they are doing this because they are trying to fill up the negative space, or if they think there is a true user benefit. Adding one increases cost, and adds some weight, but [...]
2009-06-08 22:34:
Vintage vibratory plow I’ve said it often, but it’s worth repeating. Design is much more than a styling exercise. Design solves problems. Understanding what problems exist, however, can be a challenge for the designer. We’ve all read market research reports, peered through the two way mirror at a focus group, or talked directly to customers. These [...]
The Power of Observation
Vintage vibratory plow I’ve said it often, but it’s worth repeating. Design is much more than a styling exercise. Design solves problems. Understanding what problems exist, however, can be a challenge for the designer. We’ve all read market research reports, peered through the two way mirror at a focus group, or talked directly to customers. These [...]
2009-06-04 02:06:
Recently selected poster design for 2009 Later this month is World Industrial Design day as sponsored by ICSID. This recognition was first established in 2007 as a way to draw attention to the importance of the profession at it’s contribution to society. Here is an excerpt from the ICSID site describing the recognition: World Industrial Design Day (WIDD) [...]
World Industrial Design Day
Recently selected poster design for 2009 Later this month is World Industrial Design day as sponsored by ICSID. This recognition was first established in 2007 as a way to draw attention to the importance of the profession at it’s contribution to society. Here is an excerpt from the ICSID site describing the recognition: World Industrial Design Day (WIDD) [...]
2009-05-26 20:54:
I’ve been out of the office for the last 10 days riding the Trans-America Trail with 3 other motorcyclists. Rick Plant and Matt Evans from Lenovo and David Rush, a long time friend of mine from Dallas, made the trek. We rode for 7 days and covered 1500 miles from Jellico Tennesse to Bartlesville Oklahoma. For [...]
ThinkPad On The Trail
I’ve been out of the office for the last 10 days riding the Trans-America Trail with 3 other motorcyclists. Rick Plant and Matt Evans from Lenovo and David Rush, a long time friend of mine from Dallas, made the trek. We rode for 7 days and covered 1500 miles from Jellico Tennesse to Bartlesville Oklahoma. For [...]
2009-05-08 19:09:
Tornado near Anadarko Oklahoma Lenovo has just announced a partnership with the non-profit Center for Severe Weather Research to power advanced levels in tornado and severe weather research. More than 50 Think branded PC’s including ThinkPad W700’s, W500’s and X200’s will be deployed to power the largest tornado field research project of its kind. That’s right [...]
ThinkPad: Tornado Alley
Tornado near Anadarko Oklahoma Lenovo has just announced a partnership with the non-profit Center for Severe Weather Research to power advanced levels in tornado and severe weather research. More than 50 Think branded PC’s including ThinkPad W700’s, W500’s and X200’s will be deployed to power the largest tornado field research project of its kind. That’s right [...]
2009-04-29 00:26:
The response to my recent blog post about a hypothetical ThinkPad netbook has been enormous. I honestly had no idea it would generate over 100 comments. It was also just featured on the PC Magazine website in an article written by Brian Heater . Thanks to all my readers for taking the time to weigh in with their [...]
Netbook Balance Survey
The response to my recent blog post about a hypothetical ThinkPad netbook has been enormous. I honestly had no idea it would generate over 100 comments. It was also just featured on the PC Magazine website in an article written by Brian Heater . Thanks to all my readers for taking the time to weigh in with their [...]
2009-04-27 19:01:
Godzilla Terrorizing Tokyo I’m not sure why, but for some reason I’m personally intrigued by the concept of scale. Perhaps I should have said things that are “out of scale”. I’m still likley to watch a Godzilla movie, if I happen to catch one on a obscure channel some Sunday afternoon. It better be of the original [...]
?Out of Scale? Matters
Godzilla Terrorizing Tokyo I’m not sure why, but for some reason I’m personally intrigued by the concept of scale. Perhaps I should have said things that are “out of scale”. I’m still likley to watch a Godzilla movie, if I happen to catch one on a obscure channel some Sunday afternoon. It better be of the original [...]
2009-04-16 20:43:
Lots of traction lately in the market about the emergence of netbooks as a low cost alternative for more traditional fully featured notebooks. Netbooks are a sort of basic machine, primarily optimized for e mail and web browsing. Smaller size, lower performance. I don’t recommend that you try to beat Kasparov with one of these. This [...]
Think Netbook? Think Balance.
Lots of traction lately in the market about the emergence of netbooks as a low cost alternative for more traditional fully featured notebooks. Netbooks are a sort of basic machine, primarily optimized for e mail and web browsing. Smaller size, lower performance. I don’t recommend that you try to beat Kasparov with one of these. This [...]
2009-04-03 17:32:
I’m sure everyone knows that if you buy a PC they are adorned with stickers. They usually tout the resident operating system, processor technology, energy rating, broadband connectivity, graphics card technology, etc. etc. etc. I really don’t want to go into the details about why they are there, lets just say there is money involved. The longer [...]
Stickers Do or Stickers Don?t?
I’m sure everyone knows that if you buy a PC they are adorned with stickers. They usually tout the resident operating system, processor technology, energy rating, broadband connectivity, graphics card technology, etc. etc. etc. I really don’t want to go into the details about why they are there, lets just say there is money involved. The longer [...]
2009-03-23 22:49:
I’ve often talked about where design inspiration comes from and how there is no clear formula for it. I personally have found ideas in some of the strangest places. The bright red dipstick handle on my BMW, the clever cord storage on my 25 year old Braun coffee grinder, and the carry handle from a M-16 [...]
Design Deja Vu
I’ve often talked about where design inspiration comes from and how there is no clear formula for it. I personally have found ideas in some of the strangest places. The bright red dipstick handle on my BMW, the clever cord storage on my 25 year old Braun coffee grinder, and the carry handle from a M-16 [...]
2009-03-17 21:59:
Authenticity is a word that is used a lot in the design world. The concept is not new, we talked about this when I was in design school in the 70’s, but there seems to be a heightened level of interest and discussion regarding the topic. For me the idea of authenticity has a lot [...]
Authenticity in Design
Authenticity is a word that is used a lot in the design world. The concept is not new, we talked about this when I was in design school in the 70’s, but there seems to be a heightened level of interest and discussion regarding the topic. For me the idea of authenticity has a lot [...]
2009-03-16 15:23:
Guest blogger, Johnson Li, Director of Lenovo’s Beijing Inovation Center, speaks out about a concept that recently emerged on the tech blogs. I want to thank him for sharing this concept with the Design Matters audience. David Last week some buzz was created by a photograph that someone snuck out of our Beijing design studio. The picture [...]
?Pocket Yoga? Concept
Guest blogger, Johnson Li, Director of Lenovo’s Beijing Inovation Center, speaks out about a concept that recently emerged on the tech blogs. I want to thank him for sharing this concept with the Design Matters audience. David Last week some buzz was created by a photograph that someone snuck out of our Beijing design studio. The picture [...]
2009-03-13 02:13:
Worms-eye View We just announced a series of new ThinkCentre all business desktops with a revitalized design. My favorite is the A Series tower. Towers just seem more interesting from a design perspective. The are almost like designing a skyscraper. Similar proportions and monolithic forms make the connection for me. I guess I am not the only [...]
Towering Design
Worms-eye View We just announced a series of new ThinkCentre all business desktops with a revitalized design. My favorite is the A Series tower. Towers just seem more interesting from a design perspective. The are almost like designing a skyscraper. Similar proportions and monolithic forms make the connection for me. I guess I am not the only [...]
2009-03-11 16:43:
You never know where you might discover a classic of modern design. People sometimes end up with classics without even knowing it. Maybe they inherited a Eames chair from Uncle Bob that just doesn’t look right next to their button tufted wingback. Perhaps they got a set of salt and pepper shakers designed by a Bauhaus [...]
Trash or Treasure?
You never know where you might discover a classic of modern design. People sometimes end up with classics without even knowing it. Maybe they inherited a Eames chair from Uncle Bob that just doesn’t look right next to their button tufted wingback. Perhaps they got a set of salt and pepper shakers designed by a Bauhaus [...]
2009-03-04 16:58:
The high intensity Lytegem Lamp designed by Michael Lax in 1965 has recently been reintroduced by Lightolier. Michael Lax designed some true modern classics for companies such as Copco, Lightolier, and others. He was very active as a designer until his unfortunate death in 1999. The lamps simplicity of concept and execution is stunning , and perhaps [...]
Design Classics: Lytegem Lamp
The high intensity Lytegem Lamp designed by Michael Lax in 1965 has recently been reintroduced by Lightolier. Michael Lax designed some true modern classics for companies such as Copco, Lightolier, and others. He was very active as a designer until his unfortunate death in 1999. The lamps simplicity of concept and execution is stunning , and perhaps [...]
2009-02-25 20:20:
Rifle Target We recently designated eight ThinkPad laptops for use in field and vehicle semi-ruggedized computing environments such as in public safety, utilities, construction and the military. The ThinkPad X200, X301, X200s, X200 Tablet, T400, T500, R400 and SL300 laptops meet a barrage of military specifications tests and are enhanced with specially-designed durability features such as [...]
ThinkPad Survives Boot Camp
Rifle Target We recently designated eight ThinkPad laptops for use in field and vehicle semi-ruggedized computing environments such as in public safety, utilities, construction and the military. The ThinkPad X200, X301, X200s, X200 Tablet, T400, T500, R400 and SL300 laptops meet a barrage of military specifications tests and are enhanced with specially-designed durability features such as [...]
2009-02-20 18:32:
ThinkCentre Wordless Set Up Poster We used to have a very wordy set up instruction booklet and related poster that shipped with every desktop computer we manufactured. They were translated into a zillion different languages based on what country or geography they were headed to. Although they were useful aids in setting up your computer, they added [...]
Design Without Words
ThinkCentre Wordless Set Up Poster We used to have a very wordy set up instruction booklet and related poster that shipped with every desktop computer we manufactured. They were translated into a zillion different languages based on what country or geography they were headed to. Although they were useful aids in setting up your computer, they added [...]
2009-02-17 23:27:
Where do designers come from? The German Bauhaus was certainly one of the pioneers of higher design education. Core to the Bauhaus movement were the linkages made between art, craft and technology. Always made sense to me. Vorkurs (”initial” or “preliminary course”) was taught as the foundation; this is the modern day “Basic Design” curriculum that has become [...]
The Making of a Designer
Where do designers come from? The German Bauhaus was certainly one of the pioneers of higher design education. Core to the Bauhaus movement were the linkages made between art, craft and technology. Always made sense to me. Vorkurs (”initial” or “preliminary course”) was taught as the foundation; this is the modern day “Basic Design” curriculum that has become [...]
2009-02-09 23:43:
Batman is an interesting fictional character to me. Sometimes people forget that he is just a regular guy, no parents from a different planet, no experimental radiation accidents, no super powers. Batman is all business. He is a man who focuses his intelligence on a single cause, most would simply call him a vigilante. Not to be [...]
ThinkPad? Think Batman
Batman is an interesting fictional character to me. Sometimes people forget that he is just a regular guy, no parents from a different planet, no experimental radiation accidents, no super powers. Batman is all business. He is a man who focuses his intelligence on a single cause, most would simply call him a vigilante. Not to be [...]
2009-01-26 22:15:
I recently read an interesting article by IEEE Spectrum writer Robert W. Lucky called The Blinking Light. His thesis is that people miss the blinking lights so long associated with computers, and that they add charisma and personality to an object that otherwise would be devoid of all interest. If you are as old as I [...]
Blinking Lights, Cliche or Charisma?
I recently read an interesting article by IEEE Spectrum writer Robert W. Lucky called The Blinking Light. His thesis is that people miss the blinking lights so long associated with computers, and that they add charisma and personality to an object that otherwise would be devoid of all interest. If you are as old as I [...]
2009-01-22 17:21:
I first discovered this design several years ago while visiting Richard Sapper’s design studio in Milan. After a long day of work Sapper suggested we should celebrate with a toast of his favorite whiskey. His preference by the way is Laphroaig single malt Scotch, or as I like to call it liquid smoke. Amazing taste. He brought out a [...]
Design Classics: Kölsch Beer Glass
I first discovered this design several years ago while visiting Richard Sapper’s design studio in Milan. After a long day of work Sapper suggested we should celebrate with a toast of his favorite whiskey. His preference by the way is Laphroaig single malt Scotch, or as I like to call it liquid smoke. Amazing taste. He brought out a [...]
2009-01-19 19:37:
It seems like everywhere you look now there are notebook computers available in a myriad of bright colors and decorative patterns. Kind of reminds me of the olden days when even stodgy IBM sold mainframes and typewriters in colors. I used to own a bright red Selectric before it got lost in a move. IBM stopped offering [...]
Color My ThinkPad?
It seems like everywhere you look now there are notebook computers available in a myriad of bright colors and decorative patterns. Kind of reminds me of the olden days when even stodgy IBM sold mainframes and typewriters in colors. I used to own a bright red Selectric before it got lost in a move. IBM stopped offering [...]
2009-01-16 21:30:
The response to my If ThinkPad Was a Car blog and related poll has been very interesting. Clearly Volvo is winning the day by a wide margin. Not too big of a surprise to me. For years Volvo has been known for making exceptionally engineered, solid, reliable and safety minded cars with a reserved classic design. Sounds a lot [...]
ThinkPad and Volvo Comparison
The response to my If ThinkPad Was a Car blog and related poll has been very interesting. Clearly Volvo is winning the day by a wide margin. Not too big of a surprise to me. For years Volvo has been known for making exceptionally engineered, solid, reliable and safety minded cars with a reserved classic design. Sounds a lot [...]
2009-01-13 04:58:
Americans have had a love affair with the automobile for decades. It’s forever etched into our society and culture like the horse was for the cowboy. For most of us it begins at a very early age. Toy cars, model cars, movies about cars, and of course our first car are all part of the deal. My first [...]
If ThinkPad Was a Car?
Americans have had a love affair with the automobile for decades. It’s forever etched into our society and culture like the horse was for the cowboy. For most of us it begins at a very early age. Toy cars, model cars, movies about cars, and of course our first car are all part of the deal. My first [...]
2009-01-07 17:52:
If you thought the first ThinkPad W700 was a performance beast, wait until you see the newest version. We just announced an even more extreme model with an industry leading integrated second display. Because many workstation users typically work with two monitors, Lenovo designed the ThinkPad W700ds mobile workstation with two screens to accommodate users work habits and to eliminate the [...]
Two Headed Beast Unleashed
If you thought the first ThinkPad W700 was a performance beast, wait until you see the newest version. We just announced an even more extreme model with an industry leading integrated second display. Because many workstation users typically work with two monitors, Lenovo designed the ThinkPad W700ds mobile workstation with two screens to accommodate users work habits and to eliminate the [...]
2009-01-06 15:42:
I wanted to thank everyone who participated in the ThinkPad external keyboard survey. We set a new record with this one for the number of survey respondants. There were also a lot of comments posted to the blog and included in the survey. It clearly shows how much passion our fans have for the ThinkPad typing experience. Great [...]
ThinkPad External Keyboard Survey Concluded
I wanted to thank everyone who participated in the ThinkPad external keyboard survey. We set a new record with this one for the number of survey respondants. There were also a lot of comments posted to the blog and included in the survey. It clearly shows how much passion our fans have for the ThinkPad typing experience. Great [...]
2008-12-17 23:41:
For many years we have offered two versions of what has generally become known as the ThinkPad external keyboard. I wrote a post about this offering quite some time ago. Personally I really enjoy using this keyboard. I own the version with the number pad. I don’t use the number pad much, but I like [...]
ThinkPad External Keyboard Survey: Just Your Type?
For many years we have offered two versions of what has generally become known as the ThinkPad external keyboard. I wrote a post about this offering quite some time ago. Personally I really enjoy using this keyboard. I own the version with the number pad. I don’t use the number pad much, but I like [...]
2008-12-04 16:39:
For years automotive manufacturers have tried to disguise forthcoming models or concept cars from the proverbial spy photo. Photographers have been known to camp out in key locations hoping to snap a glimpse of the next generation vehicle with a lens so long they can barely be lifted. It must be a strange job creating patterns and stick [...]
Can a Mustache Hide Your True Identity?
For years automotive manufacturers have tried to disguise forthcoming models or concept cars from the proverbial spy photo. Photographers have been known to camp out in key locations hoping to snap a glimpse of the next generation vehicle with a lens so long they can barely be lifted. It must be a strange job creating patterns and stick [...]
2008-11-25 21:13:
We recently introduced an innovative accessory that expands portable storage while enhancing data security for ThinkPad fans. My team really enjoys designing these kind of accessories. It gives them a chance to imagine how to connect ThinkPad design DNA to a product that often is highly unique and allows us to enhance the ThinkPad user experience. [...]
Secret Agent Envy
We recently introduced an innovative accessory that expands portable storage while enhancing data security for ThinkPad fans. My team really enjoys designing these kind of accessories. It gives them a chance to imagine how to connect ThinkPad design DNA to a product that often is highly unique and allows us to enhance the ThinkPad user experience. [...]
2008-11-19 02:46:
Steve Hamm’s new book The Race for Perfect is finally released. The book builds and expands on the cover story BusinessWeek Magazine article that Steve co-authored about the design and development of the Lenovo ThinkPad X300. I finally managed to carve out enough time to read my copy of the book. Unfortunately it’s been hard for me to squeeze in [...]
The Race for Perfect
Steve Hamm’s new book The Race for Perfect is finally released. The book builds and expands on the cover story BusinessWeek Magazine article that Steve co-authored about the design and development of the Lenovo ThinkPad X300. I finally managed to carve out enough time to read my copy of the book. Unfortunately it’s been hard for me to squeeze in [...]
2008-11-13 22:59:
It’s that time of year again. World Usability Day 2008. PhotoViolationMeter This year’s theme is transportation and a design blog I frequent regularly came across an interesting report: And while browsing some of this, I found this interesting research report from the UX Alliance on Parking Meters around the world, with a focus on their ease (or not) [...]
World Usability Day 2008
It’s that time of year again. World Usability Day 2008. PhotoViolationMeter This year’s theme is transportation and a design blog I frequent regularly came across an interesting report: And while browsing some of this, I found this interesting research report from the UX Alliance on Parking Meters around the world, with a focus on their ease (or not) [...]
2008-11-07 16:45:
I blogged a few months ago about our how we are using the “Design of the Week” to fuel design inspiration within my team. It works. We continue to bring things into the office and share once a week with the whole team. Following up on that idea we have now introduced another way to gain [...]
Inspiration is in the Air
I blogged a few months ago about our how we are using the “Design of the Week” to fuel design inspiration within my team. It works. We continue to bring things into the office and share once a week with the whole team. Following up on that idea we have now introduced another way to gain [...]
2008-10-28 18:13:
The votes are in, tabulated, and results posted for the Cooper-Hewitt’s People’s Design Award. This years winner was the Zon Hearing Aid. Congratulations! Instead of an unattractive necessity, the Zon looks more like a luxury fashion accessory. I think this is a great breakthrough for the hearing aid industry. Most hearing aids usually look more like a [...]
The People Have Spoken
The votes are in, tabulated, and results posted for the Cooper-Hewitt’s People’s Design Award. This years winner was the Zon Hearing Aid. Congratulations! Instead of an unattractive necessity, the Zon looks more like a luxury fashion accessory. I think this is a great breakthrough for the hearing aid industry. Most hearing aids usually look more like a [...]
2008-10-24 19:07:
It’s not often that the design of our ThinkVantage software gets specific mention in a product review. It seems that in general reviewers are far more intrigued with hardware than the included software. The latest version of our Access Connections for the Vista operating system changed that. It was singled out in a recent review [...]
More Than Just a Pretty Face: Access Connections
It’s not often that the design of our ThinkVantage software gets specific mention in a product review. It seems that in general reviewers are far more intrigued with hardware than the included software. The latest version of our Access Connections for the Vista operating system changed that. It was singled out in a recent review [...]
2008-10-15 16:30:
I recently got confirmation from the design team in Japan that we have been awarded a total of seven JIDPO awards for good design. If you aren’t familiar with JIDPO, it’s Japan’s only comprehensive design evaluation and commendation system. This system itself has its origins in the “Good Design Selection System” (generally known as the [...]
You Meet the Nicest People on a ThinkPad: JIDPO 2008
I recently got confirmation from the design team in Japan that we have been awarded a total of seven JIDPO awards for good design. If you aren’t familiar with JIDPO, it’s Japan’s only comprehensive design evaluation and commendation system. This system itself has its origins in the “Good Design Selection System” (generally known as the [...]
2008-10-09 20:08:
The Cooper-Hewitt National Design Museum is once again running their People’s Design Award program. The winner for 2007 was the TOMS shoe. For every pair purchased the company donated a pair to a child in need. You may remember that last year ThinkPad finally ended up in the fourth position beating every other computer design [...]
2008 People?s Design Award
The Cooper-Hewitt National Design Museum is once again running their People’s Design Award program. The winner for 2007 was the TOMS shoe. For every pair purchased the company donated a pair to a child in need. You may remember that last year ThinkPad finally ended up in the fourth position beating every other computer design [...]
2008-09-26 23:54:
It is always gratifying to see our products be recognized, which makes this recent article even more gratifying. Perhaps five times as gratifying, considering that five out of the ten “Best Ultraportable Laptops” are Lenovo products, as considered by PC World. They aren’t even all ThinkPads - the Lenovo 3000 V200 and sleek IdeaPad U110 were [...]
5 out of 10 - PC World Best Ultraportables
It is always gratifying to see our products be recognized, which makes this recent article even more gratifying. Perhaps five times as gratifying, considering that five out of the ten “Best Ultraportable Laptops” are Lenovo products, as considered by PC World. They aren’t even all ThinkPads - the Lenovo 3000 V200 and sleek IdeaPad U110 were [...]
2008-09-22 17:54:
We just introduced a Think branded line of servers targeted at SMB customers. The design is an extension of I look I have championed for years. The authentic appearance, simple geometric forms, powerful air inlets and black color just works. Our move into servers is much more than hardware. We include some great software tools [...]
ThinkServer Debut
We just introduced a Think branded line of servers targeted at SMB customers. The design is an extension of I look I have championed for years. The authentic appearance, simple geometric forms, powerful air inlets and black color just works. Our move into servers is much more than hardware. We include some great software tools [...]
2008-09-03 03:26:
Recently I’ve seen a few blog comments regarding the stiffness of the keyboard on the new ThinkPad T500. Since the legendary feel of a ThinkPad keyboard is of great importance to both Lenovo and our ThinkPad customers I thought it would be best if I shared the facts. The historical stifffener plate was removed because [...]
Keyboard Stiffness: Myth Busted
Recently I’ve seen a few blog comments regarding the stiffness of the keyboard on the new ThinkPad T500. Since the legendary feel of a ThinkPad keyboard is of great importance to both Lenovo and our ThinkPad customers I thought it would be best if I shared the facts. The historical stifffener plate was removed because [...]
2008-09-02 19:04:
I just wanted to take a moment to thank everyone who participated in our Power Manager survey and shared some of their thoughts in the comments. We’ve gotten some good feedback and you may see some of it incorporated in a forthcoming revised interface. David Hill
Power Manager Survey Concluded
I just wanted to take a moment to thank everyone who participated in our Power Manager survey and shared some of their thoughts in the comments. We’ve gotten some good feedback and you may see some of it incorporated in a forthcoming revised interface. David Hill
2008-08-28 16:15:
Power, especially the lack of it, is top of mind for any ThinkPad user. I often find myself strangely compelled to scan rooms I am in for available AC outlets. I guess this is a disease that you develop after years of mobile computer use. We have all devised our own strategies for milking the [...]
Power Manager Survey: Take the Controls
Power, especially the lack of it, is top of mind for any ThinkPad user. I often find myself strangely compelled to scan rooms I am in for available AC outlets. I guess this is a disease that you develop after years of mobile computer use. We have all devised our own strategies for milking the [...]
2008-08-25 17:24:
I recently drove by a local lumber yard while on a weekend motorcycle outing and witnessed one of the saddest architectural statements I have seen in years. Stuck to the front of a warehouse style metal structure was a ridiculously stylized southern colonial facade. It looked as though two buildings were unceremoniously sawed in half [...]
Design Facade
I recently drove by a local lumber yard while on a weekend motorcycle outing and witnessed one of the saddest architectural statements I have seen in years. Stuck to the front of a warehouse style metal structure was a ridiculously stylized southern colonial facade. It looked as though two buildings were unceremoniously sawed in half [...]
2008-08-13 01:38:
X300 compared to W700 - Click here for high-res version of this to-scale photo Having lived through the design of the X300 it’s very easy to fall in love with thin and light. Beauty, however, is in the eye of the beholder. Not everyone is bent on owning an ultraportable, even the richly featured X300. There [...]
Beauty and the Beast
X300 compared to W700 - Click here for high-res version of this to-scale photo Having lived through the design of the X300 it’s very easy to fall in love with thin and light. Beauty, however, is in the eye of the beholder. Not everyone is bent on owning an ultraportable, even the richly featured X300. There [...]
2008-08-12 16:13:
Ask most any ThinkPad fan what pointing device they prefer and the answer will be unanimous: the trademark TrackPoint. A group of CNET editors came together recently asking the same question about a “new ultraportable laptop” that is equipped with a “pointing stick, but no touch pad.” I wonder which laptop it could be. Head over [...]
TrackPoint vs. Touch Pad
Ask most any ThinkPad fan what pointing device they prefer and the answer will be unanimous: the trademark TrackPoint. A group of CNET editors came together recently asking the same question about a “new ultraportable laptop” that is equipped with a “pointing stick, but no touch pad.” I wonder which laptop it could be. Head over [...]
2008-08-11 17:16:
I just read an article at Sitepoint written by Josh Catone that ranks corporate blogs from around the world. As the official first Lenovo blogger I must say that I was very proud to see us in the number two spot. We have worked hard to publish relevant information and create an open dialogue via [...]
Corporate Blogging That Matters
I just read an article at Sitepoint written by Josh Catone that ranks corporate blogs from around the world. As the official first Lenovo blogger I must say that I was very proud to see us in the number two spot. We have worked hard to publish relevant information and create an open dialogue via [...]
2008-08-04 16:55:
Designers are always looking for new and creative ways to solve the problems they face. Ideas are often inspired by things we see, own, or have used. A few months ago I started a weekly event within my team called “The Design of the Week.” The idea is that designers bring in something that inspires them [...]
What Does a Sake Carafe Have To Do With Computer Design?
Designers are always looking for new and creative ways to solve the problems they face. Ideas are often inspired by things we see, own, or have used. A few months ago I started a weekly event within my team called “The Design of the Week.” The idea is that designers bring in something that inspires them [...]
2008-07-18 04:09:
We just announced a new ThinkPad line optimized for small business called the SL series. Quality, affordability, service and support are critical factors to small business notebook users, and Lenovo?s ThinkPad SL series combines all of those. We designed the notebooks for the unique way these users work ? whether at home, the office, the [...]
ThinkPad SL Series
We just announced a new ThinkPad line optimized for small business called the SL series. Quality, affordability, service and support are critical factors to small business notebook users, and Lenovo?s ThinkPad SL series combines all of those. We designed the notebooks for the unique way these users work ? whether at home, the office, the [...]
2008-07-14 17:09:
Color coding has long been used by designers to enhance both the usability and appearance of a product. Traffic lights, fire extinguishers, jumper cables, electrical resistors, and of course computers all use color coding. One of my favorite examples of color coding is the now classic calculator designed in the 1970’s by Dieter Rams for [...]
Color Coding and Design
Color coding has long been used by designers to enhance both the usability and appearance of a product. Traffic lights, fire extinguishers, jumper cables, electrical resistors, and of course computers all use color coding. One of my favorite examples of color coding is the now classic calculator designed in the 1970’s by Dieter Rams for [...]
2008-07-09 22:28:
We often get questions about the layout of notebook keyboards from our customers. People want to understand what drives the location of certain keys. Many times this is very difficult to explain. Key location is not always related to detailed human factors or usability analysis. History often plays a role. Have you ever tried to [...]
Keyboard Layout Survey: Details Matter
We often get questions about the layout of notebook keyboards from our customers. People want to understand what drives the location of certain keys. Many times this is very difficult to explain. Key location is not always related to detailed human factors or usability analysis. History often plays a role. Have you ever tried to [...]
2008-06-27 03:45:
I wanted to take a moment to thank everyone that took the survey, signed up for future surveys, or left us a comment here. We’ve had over 440 people take the survey to date and gotten a lot of helpful feedback. Looking at the comments in the previous post, the common discussion point is digital video [...]
Port Survey Conclusion
I wanted to take a moment to thank everyone that took the survey, signed up for future surveys, or left us a comment here. We’ve had over 440 people take the survey to date and gotten a lot of helpful feedback. Looking at the comments in the previous post, the common discussion point is digital video [...]
2008-06-16 20:49:
It seems like every time I read a review of a notebook computer, including our own, the topic of ports comes up. People have very strong opinions on this hot topic. It’s nearly as emotionally charged as religion or politics. The connector location is usually questioned, but more often than not the actual types and [...]
Port Survey: Use Them or Lose Them
It seems like every time I read a review of a notebook computer, including our own, the topic of ports comes up. People have very strong opinions on this hot topic. It’s nearly as emotionally charged as religion or politics. The connector location is usually questioned, but more often than not the actual types and [...]
2008-06-03 15:32:
Music pioneer Bo Diddley passed away yesterday at the age of 79. His driving rhythms and unique hard edge sound paved the transition between blues and rock and roll. Not only was he a influential guitarist and musician, but he was also a designer. His self-designed totally rectangular guitar nicknamed “The Twang Machine” was tremendously [...]
Bo Diddley 1928-2008
Music pioneer Bo Diddley passed away yesterday at the age of 79. His driving rhythms and unique hard edge sound paved the transition between blues and rock and roll. Not only was he a influential guitarist and musician, but he was also a designer. His self-designed totally rectangular guitar nicknamed “The Twang Machine” was tremendously [...]
2008-06-02 18:58:
Yesterday I saw that PC World magazine rolled out their top 100 edition. I was thrilled to see the ThinkPad X300 rated number 5. Very rewarding for the Lenovo team and the tremendous effort that went into designing and engineering the X300. You have to dig very deep to find the product most often compared [...]
PC World:The 100 Best Products of 2008
Yesterday I saw that PC World magazine rolled out their top 100 edition. I was thrilled to see the ThinkPad X300 rated number 5. Very rewarding for the Lenovo team and the tremendous effort that went into designing and engineering the X300. You have to dig very deep to find the product most often compared [...]
2008-05-30 02:02:
I want to thank everyone that voted in this latest poll and shared their thoughts in the comments. The final results are shown below and we will be factoring this data into our future product decisions.
Wireless Switch Revisited: Poll Results
I want to thank everyone that voted in this latest poll and shared their thoughts in the comments. The final results are shown below and we will be factoring this data into our future product decisions.
2008-05-06 22:52:
I have written about this topic previously, but thought it was time to revisit this one and get more data from my readers. All ThinkPads have two ways to manage wireless radios. There is a GUI application that can be launched via the Fn+F5 keyboard combination that lets you control 802.11, Bluetooth, and WAN radios. [...]
Wireless Switch Revisted
I have written about this topic previously, but thought it was time to revisit this one and get more data from my readers. All ThinkPads have two ways to manage wireless radios. There is a GUI application that can be launched via the Fn+F5 keyboard combination that lets you control 802.11, Bluetooth, and WAN radios. [...]
2008-04-25 18:12:
I just read the Trusted Reviews analysis of the ThinkPad X300 written by Riyad Emeran. I should buy him a fruit basket. He totally gets it with regard to the ThinkPad design. Here is my favorite quote: “For me, the ThinkPad has a timeless design. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, black will [...]
Trusted Reviews: ThinkPad X300
I just read the Trusted Reviews analysis of the ThinkPad X300 written by Riyad Emeran. I should buy him a fruit basket. He totally gets it with regard to the ThinkPad design. Here is my favorite quote: “For me, the ThinkPad has a timeless design. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, black will [...]
2008-04-22 19:25:
Today is officially Earth day. April 22nd marks the anniversary of the birth of the modern environmental movement in 1970. For me it’s also a chance to say good bye to some of the designs we have created over the years. Did we really design some of these relics? Lenovo has set up in the parking lot [...]
Earth Day 2008: Elephant Graveyard of Old Designs
Today is officially Earth day. April 22nd marks the anniversary of the birth of the modern environmental movement in 1970. For me it’s also a chance to say good bye to some of the designs we have created over the years. Did we really design some of these relics? Lenovo has set up in the parking lot [...]
2008-04-01 16:14:
I found this entertaining “smackdown” video review from CNET and thought you might like seeing it. I couldn’t help but make the comparison to the famous Ali vs. Fraizer battle from 1975. The manila connection is just to funny. You may remember that after the fight Ali made this quote in a press conference. “Joe [...]
CNET: Thrilla in Manila
I found this entertaining “smackdown” video review from CNET and thought you might like seeing it. I couldn’t help but make the comparison to the famous Ali vs. Fraizer battle from 1975. The manila connection is just to funny. You may remember that after the fight Ali made this quote in a press conference. “Joe [...]
2008-03-18 12:06:
Sooner or later it happens to all good ThinkPads. The performance curve starts to lag, some new highly desirable feature is introduced, the newer ones are thinner/lighter, and before you know it the “new computer bug” bites you. Typically people like to discuss the intimate details of what new ThinkPad to buy. The purchase decision [...]
End of the Trail
Sooner or later it happens to all good ThinkPads. The performance curve starts to lag, some new highly desirable feature is introduced, the newer ones are thinner/lighter, and before you know it the “new computer bug” bites you. Typically people like to discuss the intimate details of what new ThinkPad to buy. The purchase decision [...]
2008-03-10 23:13:
Enough suspense, it’s time to reveal what this thing really does. There were lots of very creative and humorous attempts, a few actually got pretty close. The machine was created, notice I did not use the term designed, to cut grooves in concrete so that a fresh layer of blacktop adheres properly. Imagine a few [...]
The Guessing is Over: Pure Function Revealed
Enough suspense, it’s time to reveal what this thing really does. There were lots of very creative and humorous attempts, a few actually got pretty close. The machine was created, notice I did not use the term designed, to cut grooves in concrete so that a fresh layer of blacktop adheres properly. Imagine a few [...]
2008-03-07 18:33:
I’ve seen a few comments about the new X300 ThinkVantage button illumination. Some people like it, others don’t. We added the illumination feature to help bring attention to the various software utilities that are quickly accessible by pressing the button. The light also helps people understand when to push the button during system start up to [...]
X300 Blue Light Special
I’ve seen a few comments about the new X300 ThinkVantage button illumination. Some people like it, others don’t. We added the illumination feature to help bring attention to the various software utilities that are quickly accessible by pressing the button. The light also helps people understand when to push the button during system start up to [...]
2008-03-06 02:34:
I’m a designer who lives by the credo that great design blurs the boundries between form and function. In a perfect world they support each other in a synergistic way so strongly that they are nearly impossible to separate without destroying the design. Interesting that Sapper spoke on a similar topic in his recent video [...]
Design Imbalance: Pure Function
I’m a designer who lives by the credo that great design blurs the boundries between form and function. In a perfect world they support each other in a synergistic way so strongly that they are nearly impossible to separate without destroying the design. Interesting that Sapper spoke on a similar topic in his recent video [...]
2008-02-26 23:12:
Last week Richard Sapper and Tomoyuki Takahashi were in Raleigh working on the next generation ThinkPad design strategy with my team. This is exactly how Kodachi was born. We spent days reviewing highly detailed concept models carried through customs by Tom, sharing ideas, making quick study models, and debating next steps. The team never ceases to [...]
Kodachi Announces: Richard Sapper, Design, and Teddy Bears
Last week Richard Sapper and Tomoyuki Takahashi were in Raleigh working on the next generation ThinkPad design strategy with my team. This is exactly how Kodachi was born. We spent days reviewing highly detailed concept models carried through customs by Tom, sharing ideas, making quick study models, and debating next steps. The team never ceases to [...]
2008-02-15 17:28:
The Lenovo design and engineering team has been working on this one for well over a year. It started out as a idea: let’s build the most advanced ThinkPad ever, in the thinnest and lightest package possible. What a great opportunity to exercise the world class technical capabilities of the Lenovo team. The best engineers [...]
ThinkPad X300: The Pursuit of Perfection
The Lenovo design and engineering team has been working on this one for well over a year. It started out as a idea: let’s build the most advanced ThinkPad ever, in the thinnest and lightest package possible. What a great opportunity to exercise the world class technical capabilities of the Lenovo team. The best engineers [...]
2008-02-08 17:14:
Over 25 years ago I was working at a design consulting firm eager to test my skills in the real design world. I was more than willing to challenge the status quo and elevate the design quality for every project I could get my hands on. I had dreams of changing the world one design [...]
DOA Design
Over 25 years ago I was working at a design consulting firm eager to test my skills in the real design world. I was more than willing to challenge the status quo and elevate the design quality for every project I could get my hands on. I had dreams of changing the world one design [...]
2008-02-06 20:30:
I’m sure everyone has heard the adage “you can never be too thin”. This seems to hold true not only for the human body but many other things, including notebook computers. Actual thinness, or the illusion of being thin, has a tremendous power to change people’s impression of nearly anything. The architect I. M. Pei [...]
The Art of Thin
I’m sure everyone has heard the adage “you can never be too thin”. This seems to hold true not only for the human body but many other things, including notebook computers. Actual thinness, or the illusion of being thin, has a tremendous power to change people’s impression of nearly anything. The architect I. M. Pei [...]
2008-01-24 13:44:
I just learned that the visionary Italian architect and designer Etore Sottsass died on January 1st of this year. He was 90 years old and active as a designer up until his death. He was a designer of true historic significance. His work embodied an emotion, inventive quality and sense of [...]
The Passing of Ettore Sottsass
I just learned that the visionary Italian architect and designer Etore Sottsass died on January 1st of this year. He was 90 years old and active as a designer up until his death. He was a designer of true historic significance. His work embodied an emotion, inventive quality and sense of [...]
2008-01-17 00:50:
Being a major user of ThinkPad I am constantly looking for ways to keep mine up and running longer. I’m sure I am not alone in this quest. Extended batteries, fresh batteries, software settings, strategic placement of multiple AC adapters within the design center and my home all matter. I have also [...]
The Power to Think
Being a major user of ThinkPad I am constantly looking for ways to keep mine up and running longer. I’m sure I am not alone in this quest. Extended batteries, fresh batteries, software settings, strategic placement of multiple AC adapters within the design center and my home all matter. I have also [...]
2008-01-03 19:41:
We just launched a exciting new line of consumer products under the Idea brand. The design for these was led by my good friend Yao. The IdeaPad notebooks feature a frameless display, face recognition security, unique media controls, a clever hinge design, and much more. I’ll have Yao write more about the design [...]
Where Do Ideas Come From?
We just launched a exciting new line of consumer products under the Idea brand. The design for these was led by my good friend Yao. The IdeaPad notebooks feature a frameless display, face recognition security, unique media controls, a clever hinge design, and much more. I’ll have Yao write more about the design [...]
2007-12-14 21:55:
Ever since the introduction of our new ThinkStation line of workstations I’ve seen lots of commentary about handles on computer towers. Just to set the record straight we have had handles on towers from day one. The first tower ever designed by IBM (PS/2 Model 80) had a folding handle to make moving it around [...]
Get a Grip
Ever since the introduction of our new ThinkStation line of workstations I’ve seen lots of commentary about handles on computer towers. Just to set the record straight we have had handles on towers from day one. The first tower ever designed by IBM (PS/2 Model 80) had a folding handle to make moving it around [...]
2007-12-04 16:37:
Okay so maybe this one doesn’t qualify as a classic based on time in market but I can’t help but include it in my list of favorite things. Being a motorcycle buff who likes to spin wrenches, my first exposure to this product brought a instant smile to my face. Why didn’t I think of [...]
Design Classics: Magnetic Finger
Okay so maybe this one doesn’t qualify as a classic based on time in market but I can’t help but include it in my list of favorite things. Being a motorcycle buff who likes to spin wrenches, my first exposure to this product brought a instant smile to my face. Why didn’t I think of [...]
2007-11-07 18:52:
We just added high performance workstations to the Lenovo Think branded stable. The ThinkStation S10 and D10 workstations are designed to offer Lenovo’s highest performance and reliability for professionals in the most demanding data and graphics intensive environments. Here are some of the feeds and speeds: The workstations are built on the upcoming [...]
ThinkStation Design: Pure Power
We just added high performance workstations to the Lenovo Think branded stable. The ThinkStation S10 and D10 workstations are designed to offer Lenovo’s highest performance and reliability for professionals in the most demanding data and graphics intensive environments. Here are some of the feeds and speeds: The workstations are built on the upcoming [...]
2007-10-25 17:48:
We just introduced a very exciting new ThinkVision monitor that my team spent a great deal of time designing. Called the ThinkVision L190x, it is the best design we offer for muti-monitor environments. The border measures a ultra-scant 6.6mm. This is the narrowest border available in the industry. Hours were spent shaving off fractions of [...]
ThinkVision L190X: You Can Never Be Too Thin
We just introduced a very exciting new ThinkVision monitor that my team spent a great deal of time designing. Called the ThinkVision L190x, it is the best design we offer for muti-monitor environments. The border measures a ultra-scant 6.6mm. This is the narrowest border available in the industry. Hours were spent shaving off fractions of [...]
2007-10-19 19:04:
Last night at 10:00 PM EST the Cooper-Hewitt announced the winner of the People’s Design Award. ThinkPad was in the hunt for the top honor hanging with the top five nominees for days. The final winner was the TOMS shoe. The design, based on a traditional Argentine shoe, is arguably less important than the [...]
People?s Design Award: The Results Are In!
Last night at 10:00 PM EST the Cooper-Hewitt announced the winner of the People’s Design Award. ThinkPad was in the hunt for the top honor hanging with the top five nominees for days. The final winner was the TOMS shoe. The design, based on a traditional Argentine shoe, is arguably less important than the [...]
2007-10-15 21:21:
Using a ThinkPad on an airplane is obviously a common occurence for anyone who owns one. Unfortunately, air travel and notebook computers don’t always mix. Where do you put your computer bag? In the over-head or under the seat in front of you? What if the overhead is full and you have the bulkhead [...]
Fasten Your Seatbelts, We?ll Be On The Ground Shortly
Using a ThinkPad on an airplane is obviously a common occurence for anyone who owns one. Unfortunately, air travel and notebook computers don’t always mix. Where do you put your computer bag? In the over-head or under the seat in front of you? What if the overhead is full and you have the bulkhead [...]
2007-10-08 22:06:
I just wanted to take a moment to let my readers know that I will be participating in the ThinkLive webcast event, put on by our friends over at NotebookReview.com. We’ll have some interesting discussions celebrating the 15th Anniversary of ThinkPad. I plan on bringing the rarely seen original ThinkPad design concept model from our [...]
ThinkLive Webcast
I just wanted to take a moment to let my readers know that I will be participating in the ThinkLive webcast event, put on by our friends over at NotebookReview.com. We’ll have some interesting discussions celebrating the 15th Anniversary of ThinkPad. I plan on bringing the rarely seen original ThinkPad design concept model from our [...]
2007-10-05 12:51:
Today is considered the official date to celebrate the anniversary of the ThinkPad’s introduction. A lot has happened in the last 15 years, and we have more planned for the future. As a tribute to this milestone I thought I would list the 15 things I like best about my ThinkPad: 1. The simple black [...]
ThinkPad 15th Anniversary !!!
Today is considered the official date to celebrate the anniversary of the ThinkPad’s introduction. A lot has happened in the last 15 years, and we have more planned for the future. As a tribute to this milestone I thought I would list the 15 things I like best about my ThinkPad: 1. The simple black [...]
2007-09-28 22:59:
The Cooper-Hewitt National Design Museum has created an interesting twist on their National Design Awards. They now also feature a People’s Design Award, first introduced in 2006. It lets anyone nominate and vote on a design they like. Last year the winner was the Katrina Cottage designed by Marianne Cusato for FEMA temporary disaster housing.It [...]
People?s Design Award
The Cooper-Hewitt National Design Museum has created an interesting twist on their National Design Awards. They now also feature a People’s Design Award, first introduced in 2006. It lets anyone nominate and vote on a design they like. Last year the winner was the Katrina Cottage designed by Marianne Cusato for FEMA temporary disaster housing.It [...]
2007-09-19 18:59:
Lenovo has designed and sold numerous monitors, but we just released one that breaks the mold in a few different ways. Our previous ThinkVision monitors have always been well designed with valuable ergonomics and image quality in mind, but our latest offering takes this to a higher level. Image quality is clearly at the forefront of [...]
High Resolution, High Design: ThinkVision L220x
Lenovo has designed and sold numerous monitors, but we just released one that breaks the mold in a few different ways. Our previous ThinkVision monitors have always been well designed with valuable ergonomics and image quality in mind, but our latest offering takes this to a higher level. Image quality is clearly at the forefront of [...]
