Understanding User Preferences in App UX Design
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Chapter 1: The Misconception of Straightforward UX
When I first developed my application, I aimed to provide users with immediate access to all relevant information from the home screen. Surprisingly, this approach was met with disapproval.
Two years back, I learned an important lesson in user experience design:
Sometimes, users favor a more complex interface over one that seems straightforward.
At that time, I was working on Skiwise, a cross-platform app designed for cross-country skiers to get crowd-sourced updates on trail conditions. This feature allows users to decide the best trails to explore on any given day, along with what gear to take. You could liken it to a weather app tailored specifically for ski trails.
With a clear objective, I designed the initial user interface to display a list of followed trails and the latest reports for each. I thought to myself, "This is perfect! Users can see the latest information in no time, eliminating any friction!"
But the feedback was far from positive.
So, I revisited the fundamental aspects of user interaction. Observing users engage with the app was key, but it was during a testing session with my mother that I uncovered the core issue.
She opened the app, scrolled through the home page, paused, scrolled again, and finally asked, "What should I do next?"
That was my "aha moment."
I realized that by making information overly accessible, I eliminated the motivation for users to explore further. It was akin to handing someone a solved Rubik's cube—there was no challenge or task to engage with. Additionally, the presentation of information did not match users' mental models, making it difficult for them to grasp that the feed was displaying the most recent updates for their favorite trails in chronological order.
This situation is similar to listing popular books by various authors sorted by their release dates—it's a convoluted relationship to navigate.
Now, let’s delve deeper into how I restructured the user experience.
Section 1.1: Redesigning the User Experience
To enhance the user experience, I opted to change how information was accessed. Instead of presenting everything on the home screen, I introduced a map feature that required users to search for trails. This shift significantly improved the overall experience.
While users now needed about 30 seconds to locate information, it aligned better with their mental models. Survey results indicated that 76% of users preferred skiing on trails within a 30-minute radius from home. This insight led to a more intuitive data structure—a map.
The satisfaction users derived from interacting with the map, finding a trail, and accessing the latest report was palpable. Despite the longer time needed to retrieve information, user satisfaction soared.
Section 1.2: The Role of Mental Models
The essence of this transformation lies in understanding mental models. Each application carries inherent mental models and interaction patterns that users instinctively follow.
For instance, when using Instagram, users quickly grasp that posts are linked to specific users, establishing a foundational mental model that makes navigation intuitive. Users learn that comments are associated with individual posts and that they can click on a post to view the corresponding user profile.
When designing a software-as-a-service (SaaS) application, it’s crucial to identify the core mental models your users rely on. Consider questions like: Do users manage multiple projects on their dashboard? Are settings associated with projects or individual users? Where should the settings button be placed for clarity?
To gain further insights, tools like Hotjar or Microsoft Clarity can help you observe user interactions with your app. Do users interpret the mental models in the same way you do?
Chapter 2: Additional Resources and Support
If you're looking for more guidance, I also wrote an article addressing seven common SaaS dashboard pitfalls, which could highlight areas where your app might be causing user friction.
Furthermore, if this resonates with your business challenges, I run a consultancy named Pwego, where I assist companies in enhancing their software and achieving measurable outcomes. Let’s explore how I can support your needs!