Your worst UX nightmare… notions of ethics in an unethical(?) industry
Tyler Winstead
Is UX ethical? Is there such a thing as UX ethics? In this Kafka and Kant inspired post, we consider the ethics, morality, truth, and necessity of the UX industry.
Your friend has been really excited about their new shoes from the brand Allbirds, which they bought online. Since they told you about them, you’ve been curious about the brand. You decided to check out the Allbirds website to see their shoe options, and consider maybe getting a pair for yourself.
The worst thing about my experience is that the main page said one thing about having a limited edition color for sneakers (would’nt let me navigate and interact with it) so I had to go the long way in trying to find the same pair I liked. However in finding it, it wasn’t consistent since the color was not shown as a choice for the same sneakers it showed on the main page.
Adding a lot more sustainability and explanations and comparisons of how these sneakers and apparel are more sustainable than other retailers and explain that data and how it came about. Also, make tab menu navigation on the site so its easier to know the different sections on the site and be able to navigate and find all the sections without missing out on information. Make sustainability a priority and advertise as such on the main page at the top and throughout.
I liked how modern it looked and the sustainability the company offers with their shoes.
No other comments other than my improvement suggestions. I hope all of this is helpful! I do really value sustainability, biodegradability, recycling, etc. I would love to see more on the site about the materials (how they are sustainable) and what that means for how long the shoe will last and what to do when the shoe is worn out. i.e. can it be recycled? does the company take it back? I would also love to see as part of the sustainability initiation program that there are ways people can buy "not perfect" or "defected products" for a whole lot less so these potential mess ups in products don’t go to waste and this also helps sustainability, along with partnering with conservation organizations like WWF or 4Ocean.
You have been eyeing some new supplies for your dog and decide to do some online browsing.
3
As I mentioned, the text on the homepage seemed cramped and the overall design of the homepage seemed a little throw together. None of the products really excited me as a user.
I like how easy it was to search for things. It was easy to customize my search, so even if they didn’t carry the right brand I could find a replacement.
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Is UX ethical? Is there such a thing as UX ethics? In this Kafka and Kant inspired post, we consider the ethics, morality, truth, and necessity of the UX industry.
