As UX professionals we all share a common vocabulary. We talk about users, flows, research, data… We also know that our goal is to find out what users need not what they like or want. Likes or wants are subjective, and many times don’t properly address the problems we’re trying to solve for users. We’re also burdened with the task of educating our clients about what UX is, and what value we bring to the process. So, it’s important that we communicate about what we do in ways that explain, and support the value we bring to the table.
On occasion I’ve had to bite my tongue after attending UX presentations that completely undermine our discipline. UX designers, and researchers using phrases like “users preferred” or “they liked.” What?! I’m used to hearing clients or other non-UX professionals use such terminology – but not my UX brothers and sisters. This is blasphemy! Say it ain’t so!
It’s bad enough when we use such blasphemous terminology within our own group, but when clients hear us use these words or phrases it sends the wrong message about what we do. In their minds our job is merely asking people what they like or don’t like. “Sheesh, I can do that,” say the unwashed non-UX civilians. And our jobs are tough enough without us shooting ourselves in the foot. Guilty as charged, I’ve done it, we’ve all done it.
Let’s make a pact! Let’s promise to be more mindful of the words we use when talking about UX, and when presenting work. Deal?!