You're not the user ...but what if I am?

"You are not the user"

When you come into the world of product design, this statement is taught like a morning affirmation.

But after hearing it I'd often think to myself, "What if I am?”

I mean… I wouldn't mind developing healthy eating habits if I'm designing an app for it.

Took me 2 years to realize, that's not what it means.

It’s your perspective against theirs.

Here’s the thing:

1. You probably have a lot more knowledge about the product/industry you're designing for. You’ve spent countless hours trying to understand its ins and outs, its features, functionalities, and potential benefits.

   For the user, it might be a first. They may not be as familiar as you are.

2. You might be more comfortable with technology in general, but the person using the product may not be. This doesn't just apply to the elderly or those with cognitive impairment.

   It's easy to lose sight of just how much more you know. It's easy to lose sight of just how easy you have it.

3. You might not be aware of or even understand the context in which the product may be used.

   You're designing it in this perfect office with a skyline view, but the user could be in a tiny, crowded, stinky, and often depressing hospital waiting room.

So, there you go. Even if you are A USER, you might not be THE USER.

Your ideas, while valuable, may set unrealistic expectations for those who will actually use it. And the result is a product that no one wants to use.

How to avoid this?

1. Be aware of the gap in your understanding of the user.

2. Observe them in their context as best as possible.

3. And a well-researched persona usually helps.

Unitl next time,
Neha

Original post: LinkedIn⁠, Substack⁠