Usability journal

summary

This journal documented an exploration into user-centered design principles and the psychology of interaction, applying insights through exercises that emphasized empathy and accessibility in digital spaces.

key learning outcomes

• User-Centered Design: Deepened understanding of how empathy and design psychology shape effective interfaces.
• ‍UX Principles: Acquired knowledge of UX principles like accessibility, visual hierarchy, and user flow, preparing for future design projects.
• Psychological Insight: Learned how users’ psychological responses impact design, reinforcing the value of human-centered design practices.

narration

The Usability Journal project allowed me to explore the design principles behind both effective and ineffective user interfaces. I documented usability encounters with four different products, two of which were intuitive and user-friendly, while the other two presented usability issues. Applying theories of affordance, cognitive load, and signifiers, I assessed how each product aligned with or detracted from user expectations.

This exercise expanded my understanding of user-centered design principles and the psychological factors that influence interaction. My entries required precise, observational language to capture both functionality and user frustration, as well as clear visuals that highlighted design issues. By revisiting and refining each entry, I developed a stronger eye for detail and deepened my ability to articulate how design impacts user experience, further equipping me with the tools to assess usability from a critical, user-first perspective.