My favorite navigation app is Waze, which provides what I consider to be the best directions and real-time rerouting to avoid traffic snarls. Waze notified me that they are “enhancing” their app by adding additional features: notifications about sharp curves, speed bumps, and toll booths; warnings about emergency vehicles on the road and upcoming reductions in speed limits; directions for traversing roundabouts and even listing nearby parking options with comparison rates and the ability to reserve a spot. If they add anything else, it will practically be able to drive my car!
I wonder about the thought process behind adding these features. It seems that Waze will be sharing more content than the audiobook I’m trying to listen to while using it. Drivers have been navigating the roadways for years without being handheld in this way, and relying on their attention and judgment seems like a better strategy than making them dependent on an app for their every move.
Be judicious in adding bells and whistles to what you offer. Unless there is a compelling reason or clear demand, the complexity of “more” may just become a distraction. Adding s’more should be left to the campfire.
