# [Required Reading] Interfaces that augment or replace?

Published: 2025-08-11
Canonical URL: https://raveesh.xyz/posts/required-reading-interfaces-that/

One of my favorite recent articles on design which provides a really useful framework (shared below) to think about Human X AI collaboration. Read the [entire thing](https://zehfernandes.com/posts/interfaces-that-augment-or-replace).

> **Complementary interfaces** strengthen our cognitive abilities. A classic example is the abacus: once you've learned how to use it, you can keep doing the operations in your head. The interface reveals its internal logic, so you're able to mentally replicate the process.
> 
> **Competitive interfaces** completely replace a cognitive function without exposing how it works. A calculator is the go-to example. It makes math easier, but someone who depends on it might not know how to calculate without it. Same goes for GPS: constant use doesn't make us better navigators. In fact, by outsourcing orientation, we stop training our spatial sense.