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Pablo Rodriguez

Pain Points

Understanding User Pain Points

Section titled “Understanding User Pain Points”

  • UX Design Core Purpose

  • “Empathy is designer’s superpower for spotting problems”

  • Goals must be clear/actionable

    • Like New Year’s resolutions
    • Need realistic expectations

  • Understanding Users

  • Research Requirements

    • Get into user’s mindset
    • Anticipate known/unknown needs

  • Example: Smartphone Evolution

    • Users knew they wanted better batteries
    • Didn’t know they needed smartphones
    • “Needs can exist before users realize them”

  • Pain Points Overview

  • Definition: “UX issues blocking users from needs”

  • Categories

    • Financial

      Money-related problems Example: Unexpected paywalls

    • Product

      Quality issues Example: Norman doors

    • Process

      Point A to B frustrations Example: Difficult checkouts

    • Support

      Help accessibility issues Example: Hidden customer service

  • Design Considerations

  • Accessibility Awareness

    • Consider all user abilities
    • Account for physical limitations
    • Think beyond standard use cases

  • Tools for Understanding

    • Use empathy maps
    • Create user personas
    • “Read minds and hearts”

Understanding user pain points requires both empathy and systematic analysis. By categorizing and addressing these issues thoughtfully, designers can create more inclusive and effective solutions that truly meet user needs.