Yes, you've heard me right: 'UX can't be designed.' We can't directly design or engineer what happens inside a user's mind. Instead, our task is to craft an environment in which users can perceive the desired experience. Simply put, we influence it, we shape it.

'We can shape an environment in which users can perceive the wanted experience.'

Everything is UX

To truly understand user experience, we must consider every touchpoint in the equation. An impeccable UI is irrelevant if the product is sluggish, prone to crashes, or priced inadequately. Pinning the responsibility solely on UX designers for the overall user experience is unjust.

Nevertheless, our role is pivotal. We are tasked with inspecting, measuring, and reporting back on how users perceive our products and services, providing actionable suggestions for enhancement. It falls on us to comprehend what’s essential, and we acquire this knowledge by studying users.

UX can be designed

This is partly true. Certain elements are designable; UI, for instance, stands as one of the primary touchpoints in digital products. Not solely from a visual perspective but encompassing usability, accessibility, information architecture, and beyond.

Crafting these elements demands great effort and skill. It shouldn't be perceived merely as an artistic form of the creative process because that's not its sole essence. A significant aspect involves technical limitations, making the process primarily about tradeoffs. In an era of industrialized creativity, explaining the design might hold even greater importance than the design itself. Our focus should encompass the ability to translate design decisions into the language of business.

Shaping an environment

Crafting the ideal user experience extends beyond visuals. It involves creating a holistic environment where every aspect of performance and satisfaction works together seamlessly. Our role isn’t just about visual design; it’s about curating a user journey.

The elements of this user journey should be shaped with an understanding of the basics of cognitive psychology. Because if UX happens in the minds of our users, we must understand, at least on a fundamental level, how the brain operates. More precisely, how perception, attention, memory, motivation, learning, and emotions function.

Also to read: 2 Main Aspects of UX: Performance and Satisfaction

Conclusion

In essence, while we can’t directly design a user’s thoughts, we use significant influence in shaping an environment that fosters their desired experience. Let’s embrace the diverse facets of user experience and strive to create environments that engage, resonate, and meet user expectations. Start learning and applying principles from cognitive psychology to shape the experience of future products and services.