Storytelling in UX
Exploring three ideas that stood out to me from Chapter 13 of Storytelling for User Experience and the main takeaway from my chapter review.
Quote 1
"When you choose the perspective for a story, you are choosing a subset of all of the experiential possibilities. The perspective (or perspectives) you choose limits what the people in the story see and experience. This determines the information you give the audience—and, more important, what you don’t—and therefore changes their experience of the story." pg. 329
Input
This quote highlights a fundamental aspect of storytelling. The choice of perspective inherently shapes the narrative by determining what is included and what is omitted. This is particularly relevant in user experience design, where the perspectives we focus on influence the problems we aim to solve. While it is impossible to capture every user's perspective, it is crucial to prioritize those that align with the business goals and the core values of a project. Designs should emerge from an understanding of these key experiences, addressing the genuine needs and challenges they present. By contrast, trying to fit user stories to pre-existing design choices introduces heavier bias and risks misdirection. The goal should always be to design for people based on authentic stories and research rather than manipulating narratives to purely justify design decisions.
Quote 2
"Changes in perspective can also suggest different needs that a new design can meet. For example, one character might describe a nighttime scene as dark and ominous, while a different character might see that same scene as quiet and peaceful." pg. 342
Input
This quote offers insight into how changes in perspective can reveal new needs that a design might address. It's a reminder that in the early stages of design, research and the diverse perspectives we gather play a crucial role in shaping the direction and features of the final product. While designs are never truly final and should always be open to iteration, this idea reinforces the importance of regularly checking in with users and adapting personas to reflect evolving needs. People’s perceptions are influenced by their unique backgrounds and experiences. This highlights the necessity of considering context and individuality in design, ensuring that our solutions remain relevant and responsive to the users' changing realities.
Quote 3
"In a user experience story, you might use a character’s dictio to show how an early objection can be overcome by a better experience or changing conditions. Then you can make the choice of having the character remain at that level of acceptance or push them further." pg. 351 - 352
Input
This quote resonates with my role as a designer in the context of emerging technologies. It emphasizes our ability to guide users through potential objections or discomfort by crafting experiences that gradually lead to acceptance or even enthusiasm. In a time when many people prefer to stick with what is familiar, this insight underscores the importance of challenging norms and pushing boundaries. As designers, we have a responsibility to ensure that new technologies and innovations are not only introduced but are also made adaptable and accessible to diverse demographics and varying stages of product acceptance. By carefully guiding users through these transitions, we can help them embrace new possibilities and contribute to the ongoing evolution of technology and design.
Personal Takeaway
The main takeaway from this chapter for me is the impact that perspective and storytelling have on user experience design. It reinforces the importance of continuously engaging with diverse user perspectives throughout the design process. By acknowledging that no two users have the same needs or perceptions, we can create more inclusive and adaptable designs. This chapter also highlights the role of designers in guiding users through new experiences that are unfamiliar. As designers, we have the power to challenge the status quo and push users toward embracing innovation, all while ensuring that our solutions remain relevant, accessible, and reflective of evolving user needs. This understanding motivates me to prioritize research, stay open to iteration, and constantly consider how different perspectives can shape better, more meaningful designs.