A customer-centric approach and user-oriented interface are the words that we hear the most when talking about design or any other sphere of it. But can you achieve it if it doesn’t carry apt content with which a user can connect? The answer for me is an obvious no.
There is a great saying, a piece of content can make or break your design. The language we use to create better designs matters; content matters. UX writing matters. But what is UX Writing? UX Writing is the process of designing a conversation between an interface and the user.
We come across UX Writing every time we interact with a product or a service online. It is like all other elements of the interface. Like, the colors we use require consistency, clarity, and invoking correct emotions. Words break the barrier between man and machine. It creates a relationship that guides and aids them throughout their product journey. Come on nobody wants to hear’ Authentication failure.’
Why Does UX Writing Matter?
So yes there are rules, there are rules to everything you do or exist. There are some guidelines and rules for UX writing as well. Before we dive into them, we would want to share some insights from a really famous talk conducted by the UX writers at Google. There were a few necessary takeaways from them.
1. Conciseness is Key
People talk about being concise, but concise doesn’t mean cutting it short, it actually means economical.
2. Focus on User Attention
Readers don’t read everything written on the screens. To bring to their attention the significant words, put them towards the beginning, and then edit mercilessly.
3. Clarity is King
Keep it simple and clear so it gets easy for the user to understand what is happening with the system and provide him with suitable feedback.
A simple example of Google
Google rolled out how changing the words from Book a room to Check availability increased customer engagement by 17%. It’s just before actually booking, we as a user tend to window shop and look around for options. Just by looking at Book a Room, adds a mental pressure or image of taking to the entire process of booking a room.
UX writing is the copy we write for our interfaces. The words that are directly related to the users’ actions or direct them to a particular action.
UX Writing vs. Content Writing
While both involve crafting compelling content, there’s a key distinction. UX writing focuses on the specific words and phrases that guide users through product interactions. Content writing encompasses broader communication, including emails, blog posts, and marketing materials.
Why Integrate UX Writing Early?
Imagine designing an interface filled with placeholder text like “Lorem Ipsum.” Not ideal, right? Including a UX writer in the early stages of UX research allows them to:
- Gain user insights: By analyzing user interview recordings, UX writers understand user needs, preferred language styles (formal, humorous, etc.), and educational backgrounds.
- Shape the tone: This early involvement ensures the product speaks in a user-centric voice, fostering a positive connection.
- Incorporate meaning from the start: UX writing woven into the design process adds value from the get-go, creating a cohesive and user-friendly experience.
UX Writing in Action
Let’s explore how UX writing enhances various user touchpoints:
1. 404 Error Pages
It gets difficult for the user to understand when they encounter a copy like – ‘404-Page Not Found.’ They might end up wondering where the page goes. It is always essential to pull users from situations like these and guide them to the correct path with the UX Copy.
2. Buttons
A simple example of the usefulness of UX Writing in buttons. In the scenario below, you might end up thinking both copies look correct. But, what if a user doesn’t read the text ‘Save Document’ and just wants to go for the final action? In such scenarios, the button itself explains that it will save the document for them.
3. Confirmation Messages
Then there are confirmation messages, once we sign up or any stage before confirming the action taken. Those messages, when written in the first person, help the user to relate, acknowledge, and make them feel in charge of the action they are taking.
Effective UX writing elevates user experience by providing clarity, guidance, and even a touch of personality. It’s as crucial as any other UX design element.
As a leading UI UX design agency in Mumbai, we blend art and analytics to craft exceptional user experiences. Contact our digital design agency today and let’s create interfaces that resonate with your users.
