UX Terminology Translated

In order to create a seamless UX you gotta speak the language. However cutting through the jargon and figuring out what those buzzwords really mean can prove extremely challenging.

Here we have provided a full translation of the UX lingo. This will allow you to be better equipped to begin your journey to becoming customer-centric. Soon enough you’ll be speaking our language!

UI

UI - or User Interface - simply refers to the features that allow your users use to engage with your digital platforms. This includes things like menus, buttons and sliders that are there help your user accomplish tasks. UX and UI are often used interchangeably - it is important to note that the latter refers to the website’s framework, whilst the former refers to the user’s experience.

Usability

How easy an interface is to use - it’s as simple as that. This can be measured by how seamlessly a user can complete tasks - such as downloading a resource or ordering a product - with minimal interruption to workflow.

User Journey

The journey the user goes through to achieve their goal from beginning to end. This can at time transpose online and offline barriers - such as how seamless the transition is from website to call-centre. Touchpoint Any interaction between an organisation and its customers. This applies to both online (websites, mobiles sites, apps) and offline (call centres, direct mail, shops).

IA

IA - information architecture - refers to the website’s structure and the systems that organise the content in a logical way. Information architects are responsible for mapping out this content - this is frequently done through flowcharts and diagrams. The aim being to make it simple and seamless for the users to access and navigate.

Persona

A detailed, fictional identity that is formed though data and industry trends. They are used to help a organisation better understand it’s users.

Lean UX

This is a UX approach that favours long-term strategy and sees user experience as an evolving journey - as opposed to fixed deliverables and short-term goals. Don’t let the jargon put your off. UX can, and should be, applied to every organisation but getting a full understanding of what this really means is crucial.