Introduction
This evaluation explores how UX principles are implemented through analyses of my four blog entries, focusing on accessibility, usability and ethical design.
Best Implementation: Apple Website Accessibility
Apple's website is an excellent implementation of the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG) and reflects core accessibility principles. Its accessibility support page is thoughtfully designed to enable users with visual, hearing, mobility and cognitive impairments. Users can navigate the website with simplicity due to features like scalable text, a strong black and white contrast, and hover labels on buttons.
The navigation bar is intuitive, ensuring essential information is accessible within three clicks, while links are both aesthetically pleasing and functional. A feature testing area is also included to ensure that users can customise the setting to suit their needs while enhancing inclusivity and usability.
Apples score of 72 on Silktide's accessibility index highlights its commitment to universal design However, flaws such as missing ALT text for images and zoom issues on smaller screens hinder a fully inclusive experience. Addressing these weakness’s would strengthen Apple’s alignment with accessibility standards, show that even the best examples have room for improvement. This evaluation emphasises the importance of accessibility in UX design, showing how inclusive features enhance user satisfaction while meeting legal obligations like the Equality Act 2010.
Poor implementation: Zara's Website Usability
In contrast, Zara’s website exemplifies poor implementation of Jakob Nielsen’s usability heuristics, particularly “Consistency and Standards” and “Match Between the System and the Real World.” While its sleek aesthetic reflects the brand’s identity, usability is compromised by design choices prioritising over function.
When high-resolution photos are used excessively, navigation becomes difficult and users must scroll far to find information. Important information, including prices and product descriptions, is frequently hidden, which can irritate users and decrease productivity. Additionally, the lack of clear filtering options for products makes the shopping experience difficult, particularly for users with limited time or cognitive impairments.
Potential improvements include compressing images to speed up loading, ensuring critical details are consistently visible, and improving filtering options to meet with user expectations. These changes would enhance functionality without sacrificing Zara’s modern aesthetic, proving that usability and design can coexist. This analysis highlights the risks of prioritising aesthetics over user focus design, emphasising the need for balance to provide a positive experience.
Reflection
I now have a better understanding of UX principles and their practical applications thanks to this module. While Zara's problems highlight the negative consequences of ignoring usability, Apple's approach emphasises the significance of inclusive design.
In the future, I will prioritise ethical, user-centred design practices, ensuring accessibility and usability remain first. Incorporating psychological principles like the Zeigarnik Effect can enhance engagement, but these must be implemented responsibly to avoid manipulative dark patterns. This understanding will guide my strategy for developing websites that are not only functional but also equal and trustworthy.
References
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