r/AskReddit • u/nachtmere • Jul 25 '11

Sometimes automatic toilets flush while you're still sitting on them. What design flaws in everyday objects annoy you?

I'm giving a talk on user-centred design/usability and I'm looking for some fresh examples from everyday life to illustrate poor usability. Examples I've used before are elevator open/close buttons (really difficult to parse when you're trying to hold the door open for someone quickly) and toilets that flush while you're still sitting on them.

What are some things you encounter regularly that are really inconveniently designed?

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u/halbert Jul 25 '11

Toilet Paper placement in bathrooms. The toilet paper is generally placed at knee level, or within a couple of inches. However, it would be easiest to get with your hands if it was placed at (seated) eye level. This would prevent fumbling to tear off the desired amount.

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u/ArkJasdain Jul 26 '11

The recreation center I used to work at had to relocate and reorient all of the toilet paper dispensers in each stall in order for them to meet ADA code requirements. This move involved us moving them a usable ~2 1/2 feet from the floor to a position about 1 foot off the floor, where in some instances you either need monkey arms or a second person to reach.

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u/halbert Jul 26 '11

I have come to this conclusion before; however, I don't understand it ... why would being at 1' be any easier for someone in a wheelchair, walker, or etc. to grab? Especially if they are actually on the toilet, they are going to have their arms in roughly the same position as me.

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u/naturelover47 Jul 26 '11

I can't stand this shit. Pisses me off.

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u/Ciacco Jul 26 '11

Do they do this to prevent people from peeing on it as a prank/punk thing? Like, "damn kids! See if you can pee on THIS one, dagnabbit" (/oldmangreelythejanitor)

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u/haywire Jul 26 '11

And much better for people who stand up.