Once the product's task is known, design the interface first; then implement to the interface design.

In this quote, Jef Raskin, a pioneering figure in the field of user interface design, emphasizes the importance of starting with the interface design when developing a product. He argues that once the task the product is meant to perform is clearly understood, the next step should be to design the interface that users will interact with. Raskin's point is that the user experience should be prioritized from the outset, and the development of the product should then be shaped to align with the interface design.

Raskin’s philosophy reflects a user-centered approach to product design, where the focus is on ensuring that the interface is intuitive, functional, and accessible before diving into the technical details of implementation. By designing the interface first, developers can create a more seamless interaction between the user and the product, allowing for smoother integration of the underlying technology. The idea is to think about the user’s needs and how the product will be used, rather than just focusing on technical specifications.

The origin of this quote comes from Raskin’s work in the early days of human-computer interaction (HCI), particularly in his involvement with the Apple Macintosh project. As the creator of the Macintosh's original user interface, Raskin played a key role in shifting the focus of product development to usability and user experience. His approach was groundbreaking at the time, as it challenged the traditional view of software development, which often placed technical specifications ahead of user-centered design.

Ultimately, Raskin’s quote underscores the idea that interface design should be at the core of any product development process. By prioritizing the user’s interaction with the product first, designers can ensure that the technology serves the user’s needs, rather than forcing the user to adapt to the technology. This approach has become a foundational principle in modern UX design and is integral to creating products that are both effective and user-friendly.