A few weeks ago, I highlighted my two simple rules for good UX design, so now let’s look at the flip side: bad UX design…it’s annoyingly common and we’ve all experienced it, but it can be so easily avoided!
Here’s my take on some of the most common mistakes in UX design that I've seen recently. Mistakes like these can massively impact user experience and satisfaction, so it's super important to be aware of and avoid them.
As a designer, you might be tempted to create visually stunning web pages with colourful banners running across them or clever pop-ups appearing at random moments. However, these elements can quickly become irritating for users. If a feature interferes with usability or hinders users from accessing key information, it isn’t needed. Always remember that the primary goal of UX design is to facilitate a seamless and enjoyable user experience. Let users clearly see the offerings on the page, with obvious directions for where they need to go to get what they need. Sometimes less is more, and extra design elements that cause distractions can turn a simple process into a frustrating obstacle course.
Few things are more frustrating for users than encountering broken links. Getting stuck in an endless loop of clicks while trying to find a piece of information can quickly drive users away. It's essential to regularly check and ensure that all links on your site are functioning correctly. A well-maintained site not only enhances user experience but also reflects positively on your brand's reliability.
Navigation is a critical element of UX design that impacts nearly everything on a website. It should be clear, intuitive, and easy to use. Lengthy drop-down lists that force users to scroll endlessly can be overwhelming and frustrating. Whenever possible, organize long lists into subheadings. Anything that makes it difficult for users to find what they want is a major no-go. Poor navigation leads to frustration and decreased user engagement, which can ultimately hurt your site's performance and user retention.
I've dedicated an entire blog post to dark UX, but it's worth reiterating here: avoid the temptation to trick your users into actions that only benefit your company. Dark UX is the antithesis of user-first design techniques, which should be at the heart of everything UX designers do, always. User-first design is King—there is no other way.
Consider this: do customers want to return to a company that intentionally deceives them? Is that really the way to build trust? Of course not. Don't bury the information or actions you'd rather users didn't take. If they want to remove something from their basket, let them! Designing a UX that forces users down a specific path because there's no alternative is a surefire way to erode any trust they have in your brand. This approach will never lead to repeat visits or purchases.
By avoiding these common UX design mistakes, you can create a more user-friendly and engaging experience for your audience. Remember, the key to successful UX design is prioritizing usability, maintaining functional links, ensuring clear navigation, and embracing user-first design principles. By doing so, you'll foster trust, satisfaction, and loyalty among your users, leading to better overall performance for your website or application.