Of course the Mac is better, says Raskin, but both computer systems have fundamental problems that make using them an unpleasant experience for both novices and experts alike. Raskin bases his arguments not on opinion but on nearly 30 years of research by people around the world who have studied how the human brain interoperates with engineered systems from aircraft to computers. Raskin suggests that we should apply this research to the design, or redesign, of today's operating systems. One of Raskin's early observations is that people quickly become habituated to routine processes and procedures. This works to both the advantage and the detriment of the interface designer.
Habituation lets an experienced person use a well-designed interface more quickly.
And that's when it would be great if we had a truly workable undo. You want it, when you realize your mistake, to promptly undelete any work you've foolishly trashed. Instead of a confirmation box, a far better design would be to have the computer always delete the menu, but then to allow the ability to undo the last action. You don't stop because you have become habituated. Of course, the Palm operating system does have an undo feature.