Design's hidden playbook: silently manipulating choices

?? Ever felt like some products seem to know exactly how to nudge you into making a decision?

This edition of "Tethered to the Customer" delves into the subtle (sometimes sneaky) world of design and its influence on our choices.

?? The double-edged sword of design

Every click, swipe, or scroll we make is often a choreographed dance, directed by design. It shapes our journey, leading us down paths creators want us to take. But sometimes, this guidance isn't entirely transparent.

?? Dark patterns

'Dark patterns' is a term you may have stumbled upon.

These are design choices made explicitly to deceive or lead users to make decisions they wouldn't otherwise.

Ever accidentally subscribed to an email list or struggled to find an 'unsubscribe' button? That's dark patterns at work.

Take a moment to think about the platforms you frequent. Do they have unmissable 'Sign Up' buttons but camouflaged 'Log Out' options?

? Canva offering a breath of fresh air

While the digital realm has its share of manipulative designs, platforms like Canva stand out as exceptions. Instead of trapping users, Canva empowers through transparent and intuitive design, making complex tasks feel straightforward.

?? Design can be an (ethical) influencer

• Ethical navigation: Prioritise transparent designs that guide but don't deceive.
• Transparency over traps: Ensure every design choice enhances user experience, not just business metrics.
• Consistency without concealment: A consistent design should enhance user trust, not be a smokescreen for shady practices.

?? Think about this:

• Which platforms feel the most 'honest' in their design to you?
• Have you encountered a design choice that felt manipulative?
• How can we champion transparency in design?

Await the next insights in our "Tethered to the Customer" series. ??

Remember, while a picture speaks a thousand words, design silently influences millions of decisions.

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