Universal Principles of UX by Irene Pereya Flashcards
What is the reason we need to keep the actual human beings - users - front and center in our design process?
It’s to ensure the wrong decisions don’t get pushed through because of the personal opinions of the business stakeholder or, worse, the assumptions of the designer. To keep everyone’s irrelevant opinions and assumptions at bay, and put the attention back on the user.
What three questions should you start every project with to keep focus on the user?
- WHO is it for (the audience)?
- WHY will they use it (the goal)?
- HOW will they use it (the context of use)?
What constitutes a positive and memorable experience?
- Come up with features people won’t expect.
- Get people into a state of flow: A state of complete immersion.
If people are completely involved and focused on what they are doing, activities become more engaging and enjoyable.
Is the common misconception that people don’t read on the web correct?
No, it is incorrect. People do read on the web, but they read differently. They tend to be more task-oriented and goal-focused than when reading print. They also expect more of a conversation because they can interact with the system, wanting to get things done quickly and communicate as if a computer wasn’t involved.
What should be the main goal when writing for the web?
The main goal when writing for the web should be to make the copy as digestible and conversational as possible. Simplify language, label content, make the copy bite-sized, avoid burying links in long paragraphs, and ensure content is easy to scan. Using lists is also beneficial as people love lists. Additionally, directly addressing users with “you” makes the content about them and their goals, rather than about the product or service.
How can you ensure good copy for the web?
Ensure good copy for the web by cutting it down to say exactly what it needs to say, nothing more. Read it out loud; it should feel conversational. If it feels weird or robotic, it’s not quite there yet.
Why is a good visual metaphor effective?
A good visual metaphor is effective because an image is processed 60,000 times faster than text and is filtered through our mental models, which are simplified versions of the world around us. It creates new meaning and helps audiences relate by tapping into existing symbolism.
How do people judge the usability of an interface?
People judge the usability of an interface based on its aesthetics, not on how usable the interface actually is.
This doesn’t mean we can focus on only making things beautiful and call it a day. Our willingness to forgive does have its limits. If something doesn’t work at all, or if users can’t find what they’re looking for, no amount of beauty will save it. It’s not that we should focus on only making things beautiful while ignoring usability, it’s to understand why we should focus on both.
