Mental models
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Mental Models.
Any representation of reality, and any other expectation about reality depends on the way we manipulate the data that we receive, and the way we enmesh that info on our previous experiences and interactions. Any mental model is then, by definition, an over-simplification, a set of rules that we expect to hold true independently of setting and situations.
It is easy to navigate information categorized according to proved models, and that is what we do all the time, be it designs or concepts.
I would posit that the most interesting models are those that present the same information according to new rules, as if to say, there is a new interpretation of the meanings of that reality.
For example, instead of talking about power laws, we may talk about differential equations and detect relationships within the data presented, identifying new information.
The same applies to navigating structures, such as Net, databases or even social constructs. Our perception of these all depend on how well their structure can be represented with previously adopted structures, without losing meaning in the translation. I would like the translation of a social construct here on the page, by which I would then validate my pages the same way we validate and interact with people.
Which mental model is then appropriate for navigation?
I need a redesign fast.
via Anil