Someone has defined innovation this way: “Fail fast, fail forward, and don’t fail the same way twice.” We always add: “And write everything down.”

Field Notes makes quality pocket notebooks that several team members regularly use to keep track of to-dos and good ideas. A recent release highlights the work of Dieter Rams, a globally influential designer, and includes Rams’ ten principles of good design.

GOinnovation designs research-based human development experiences for the good of everybody, everywhere. We find these principles to be applicable more broadly to the field of human-centered design, which includes both tangible products and intangible spaces and experiences. They’re worth reflection (and Field Notes is worth checking out if you’re unfamiliar):

1. Good design is innovative.
2. Good design makes a product useful.
3. Good design is aesthetic.
4. Good design makes a product understandable.
5. Good design is unobtrusive.
6. Good design is honest.
7. Good design is long-lasting.
8. Good design is thorough down to the last detail.
9. Good design is environmentally friendly.
10. Good design is as little design as possible.