User Experience Design (UX) is an iterative process that is concerned with all aspects of a product's development. It addresses how users experience a product, services or device and how they feel about it.
The goal of a UX designer is to help people and solve problems. They do this through an iterative, user-centred process that includes research and testing to fully understand the problem and to know if the solution solves the problem, without introducing new ones.
Watch the following video for an expansion of 'UX design'.
We often talk about UX in relation to websites or apps, but it is important to understand that UX is not solely about the user interface. It incorporates elements of branding, design and usability with the goal of delighting users with highly functional and enjoyable interactions.
Meet Don Norman in the video provided below.
The term 'User Experience Design' (UX) was first introduced in 1995 by cognitive scientist, Donald Norman.
Joining Apple Computers in the early '90s as their User Experience Architect, Donald Norman became the first person to have UX in their job title.
User experience covers all aspects of a user's interaction with a product, service or device. From initial awareness and purchasing, unboxing (in the case of physical products), onboarding (first use and learning) to regular use.
Apple has been praised for attention to detail when it comes to product experiences--supported by advertising which hones in on creativity and simplicity. Product specs are rarely a part of an Apple ad; but when they are mentioned, they are usually contextualised to show why they are important.
This simplicity is carried through to the in-store experience. Apple stores and product displays are clean and minimalist.
Each of Apple's products is packaged in a very simple white box. The boxes slide open at a consistent speed and the product is usually the first thing you see, once open.
Apple's ability to apply their design philosophy so consistently to all aspects of their users' experience of their products is one of the reasons they have such good brand loyalty.
Can you think of any good or bad product experiences you’ve had?
Can you describe a product experience that you think is consistent with its brand?
