Your client is disregarding usability test results. How can you convince them to consider objective data?
When your client disregards usability test results, you need to effectively communicate the importance of this objective data. Here's how you can make your case:
How have you persuaded clients to consider usability data in your projects?
Your client is disregarding usability test results. How can you convince them to consider objective data?
When your client disregards usability test results, you need to effectively communicate the importance of this objective data. Here's how you can make your case:
How have you persuaded clients to consider usability data in your projects?
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Convincing Clients to Value Usability Test Results - Show success stories: Present case studies proving how usability improvements drive positive outcomes. - Quantify risks: Demonstrate potential losses from ignoring usability issues, such as reduced satisfaction or increased churn. - Make data clear: Use visuals and simple language to convey key findings effectively. - Focus on goals: Link usability insights directly to the client’s business objectives to highlight relevance. How have you encouraged clients to embrace usability data in your projects?
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As a designer, my job is to speak for the users while making sure their needs align with the business goals. I’d explain to the client or my manager that usability testing isn’t just about making things easier for users—it’s also a way to help the business grow. Fixing real user issues from the test results can reduce drop-offs, boost engagement, and even increase sales. It’s all connected. I’d suggest focusing on the changes that benefit both users and the business. To make it easier, we can start small—fix the key issues, test the impact, and show how user-focused design helps achieve business goals too.
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Emphasize that usability test results are rooted in real user behavior, not assumptions, and are necessary data to designing a product that aligns with user needs and expectations. Try sharing specific examples like test iterations, video clips or user quotes. What I did once was propose running a small A/B test based on the findings, which allowed us to measure the impact of the suggested improvements without committing to implementing big changes upfront.
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It's frustrating, but here's how I approach it: 1. Speak their language: Understand their goals. Are they looking to boost sales, improve customer satisfaction, or something else? 2. Show, don't tell: Use real-world examples and case studies to illustrate the impact of good UX. 3. Quantify the benefits: Highlight the potential financial gains or loss prevention that could result from prioritizing usability. 4. Keep it simple: Use clear, concise language and visuals to make complex data easily understandable. I keep in mind it's not just about the data; it's about the story you tell with that data.
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When a client disregards usability test results, we should focus on understanding their expectations and aligning our approach to meet their needs. Clients often expect us to work as collaborative partners, not just advisors. One measure is to reframe usability insights as solutions to their business goals, such as improving user retention or driving conversions. Another is to involve them in the process by walking through key findings, demonstrating how the data supports their vision. We should also emphasize a shared goal of delivering a product that balances user needs with business objectives, reinforcing trust and partnership in decision-making.