Form Versus Function

Two weeks ago I posted my thoughts on Quality versus ROI, wondering why as wealthy as we are, we accept piss poor products and services in the name of becoming even more wealthy. This is a paradox, because having more money we get worse quality of life, and applies very often to the greediest and wealthiest among us.

Today a short stop contemplating on another related phenomena. We often agree to pay premium for things that look great, but do not perform as great as they could. Or how sacrificing looks a little the functionality would jump to a higher level.

And the crown example of form over function is... surprise, surprise... Apple!

Two weeks ago, after a couple of days of careful shopping, I bought the Apple 27" LCD monitor. I have always loved big monitors and a lot of screen real estate. For a number of months I have been on intensive self training program to become an expert Linux admin and programmer. I play with code and commands in one window and my best friend Google sits in the second window. With the 27" monitor this is the most comfortable setup I have ever had, as both windows can be more than 1000 pixels wide and fit side by side. After the Apple 27" won the central spot on my work desk, my previous Iiyama 22", 1080p screen was sent to my other office where I spend just a couple of hours a week.

And what was my surprise when I went to the other office and immediately realized the old monitor (1/5th of the Apple price) was actually delivering a much better picture. Not as bright and not close to the viewing angle and saturation of colors of the Apple IPS panel, but the Iiyama screen is a whole lot easier on the eyes and creates much more comfortable working environment. So yes, I paid FIVE TIMES more to get what I thought would be the best monitor on the planet and I probably got the best looking one, but I am far from being satisfied with what it delivers in terms of picture quality. I mean, the Apple screen looks great, but its aggressively saturated colors and reflective coating definitely do not help my tired eyes. I admit I have been fooled by Apple marketing. And I do admit this openly. And I will not be defending Apple, as many of their fans do. Simply put, the high end display should at least have an option of being custom configured with matte coating. Same way as the 15" and 17" MacBooks are secretly offered, if you press hard enough.

The form versus function principle applies to many aspects of our lives. Shoes, computers, cars, etc. Think what is more important to you and choose wisely. Do not be afraid to have your picks opposite to the crowd wisdom. You will not regret.