The power of the button (Changelog Interviews #623)

This interview podcast features Rachel Plotnick, author of "Power Button," discussing the history and design of buttons, their cultural impact, and the current shift away from and back toward their use. The podcast begins with introductions and sponsor mentions, then delves into Plotnick's research, exploring the evolution of buttons from early industrial applications to their modern-day presence in various technologies. The conversation covers the pros and cons of touchscreens versus physical buttons, highlighting the importance of tactile feedback and accessibility in specific contexts like driving. Finally, Plotnick discusses her upcoming book, "License to Spill," which examines the relationship between liquids and electronic devices. Listeners gain insight into the design considerations behind different interface types and the often-overlooked complexities of seemingly simple technologies.