Understanding User Experience - ‘Banana UX’
One of the best explanations of why user experience matters I have ever heard, is through studying the UX of a banana. Yes, you read that right, a banana.
So what does a banana have to do with understanding UX? Well its a concrete example that everyone can relate to and it breaks down all the complexities to very simple terms.
Usability
When it comes to User Experience, the first ‘test’ of any great product or experience is to assess the degree in which something is able or fit to be used. Usability lands at the centre of the user needs, clarity and intuition.
So let’s take a look at how a banana passes the usability testing with flying colours:
The peel protects the fruit, so you don’t need to wash it.
It is easy to peel and doesn’t require any tools.
The peel even has guiding lines on how to peel it.
You can eat the fruit without getting your hand dirty.
If we compare a banana with a pomegranate or a coconut, it is easy to see how simple and intuitive it is to eat a banana. A person doesn’t require any prior experience with bananas to know how to peel one. That is the goal of UX.
If we go beyond usability, a banana is also an excellent example of mobility, seamless interaction, multi-utility and multiple values to users.
Mobility
Easy to carry
On the go
No tools necessary to consume
Seemless Experience, or should we say, Seedless
No hidden seeds or pits
Eating a banana is easy and effortless
Adaptability & Multi-Utility
Bananas are known to grow in a wide range of climates and in almost every continent.
When it comes to consumption, bananas are consumed in multiple ways. By themselves, as chips, in smoothies, fruit platters, fruit salad, etc.
Multivalue to Users
Ranks high in nutrition
Satisfies hunger
Elevates mood
Potassium powerhouse
As you can see, a banana is a great example of good UX that helps converts the individual to a user. Not sure where to start with UX? Apply the Banana UX principles to your next design!
Tip: Simply right click on the image and save it to your device so you can refrence it the next time you need it!
