Enhancing Content with Design Methods

Just ask why, then ask why again

TL;DR

Working with partners on content is more than just giving the green light. It's super important to see things from the user's point of view. Try using the 5 Whys technique - keep asking "why?" like a curious kid - to get to the root of the problems. This way helps in making content that speaks to users and hits the mark. By using this method, you can have awesome talks with partners and create content that really clicks with the audience.

Picture this: it's Thursday afternoon, and you're leading a call with your partners to discuss content. All partners are present, eager to share their ideas on the matter. Within the first 5 minutes, you, as the writer, quickly grasp that your role is to approve their suggestions rather than delve into content specifics.

So, what's the next move?

Here's my approach to such scenarios: I gracefully allow my partners to express their needs and assess the overall flow. While examining the design, interruptions occur as partners highlight business requirements and their desired elements.

Let's face it, handling such situations can be challenging at times, but it's crucial to recognize that I have the ability to leverage my communication skills effectively. This situation often compels me to act as a stand-in for the user.

So, am I implying that I consider myself the user?

Not exactly, but the truth is that sometimes the writer is the last to experience the UI, essentially becoming a first-time user. I have come to realize that personally going through the product walkthrough is crucial in understanding the user's perspective while using it.

Instead of just approving the content, I usually start off by pointing out any style guide issues in a nice way and then move on to talking about how users experience it. As I go through the UI, I always have a couple of key questions in mind.

1. How does the user get here?

2. Where does the CTA take the user?

3. Why? (repeat 5 times)

   
   

I've picked up some really useful methods in my UX bootcamp that helped me improve a lot. They took me from feeling pressured to just check things over to becoming an expert in the field.

The 5 Whys method is a problem-solving technique that involves asking "why?" repeatedly to uncover the root cause of a problem.

It sounds silly, but adopting a toddler's curiosity allows partners to discover the root causes. This method works when trying to discover what the user needs to know and allows me, the writer, to design effective content that gives the user the correct level of expectation while using the product.

When I pose the question "Why," silence amplifies. This compels partners to delve into the reasoning behind their decisions and the factors influencing their choices. Generally, the first three initial "why" inquiries may yield superficial answers; this signals the perfect moment to transition to asking "How?"'

Having a clear understanding of how the product functions, the estimated download times, the available login platforms, and other relevant details is crucial for effectively directing users. By asking 'how,' you gain insights into the necessary actions to take, empowering you to navigate in the right direction confidently.

Usually, around the fourth or fifth "Why," you'll have all the info you need to create awesome content for the product's users.

Have you used the 5 Whys method? How did it go?