In: Michael Herczeg, Martin Christof Kindsmüller (Ed.)
Mensch & Computer 2008 - 8. Fachübergreifende Konferenz für interaktive und kooperative Medien - Viel Mehr Interaktion.

English translation of the title: "Interaction patterns for product configuration systems". With product configuration systems customers can build products according to their needs and whishes. When designing a product configuration system, it's the designer's task to combine technical needs, customers' needs and business needs. This paper discusses the reasons for common usability problems of product configuration systems. It also introduces interaction design patterns that support designers.

PDF download⁺ (in German)

In: Webstandards-Magazin, Issue 02/2009

Anyone designing or devoloping web applications will sooner or later run into design patterns. A design pattern is a general reusable solution to a commonly occurring problem in design. Patterns provide ideas and suggestions for functionalities and interactions. This article explains how to use patterns effectively.

Webstandards-Magazin⁺

At the InfoCamp Berlin, an information architecture conference.

What are the most common usability problems of product configuration systems? What can a designer consider to avoid these probelems? Introduction of an interaction design pattern library for product configuration systems, that inspires designers when creating a product configuration system.

Pattern library⁺ (in German)

Product configuration systems gained importance through individualisation in mass markets. Companies and designers need to know how to plan a strategic design of cofiguration systems. This thesis proposes a strategic design approach for product configuration systems that deals with defining the goals, the scope, the structure and the visual design. It is meant to be a guide for companies and mainly for designers.

I assumed that a designer needs to understand the product range with all its possibilities before designing a product configuration system that delivers best support and information for customers. The thesis describes conceptual techniques, analyses existing product configuration systems and describes best practice examples through interaction patterns. Additionally I developed new techniques and solutions for patterns that do not have any appropriate best practice examples.

The thesis does not deliver any patent remedy for configuration system designs, but shows factors that should, should not and must not influence the design. I also focus on the interaction of design and marketing. The customer brings time, attention and interest while configuring a product, and expects suitable advice from the company in return. The thesis shows, how companies benefit from a well designed configuration experience, and how designers can design an exclusive experience for the user and customer.