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Practical UX
Flirting with the ‘Roach Motel’ Dark UX Pattern
Introducing ‘Cool Gray 1 C’ UX Pattern and Proactive Affirmations in UX. (Not your typical dichotomy of “Dark” vs “Light” UX patterns). A Trip.com app case study.
Tips: If you are a seasoned UX practitioner feel free to skip section A.
A. Definitions
Let’s get the basic definitions out of the way, shall we?
1. ‘Dark’ UX Patterns 😈
Dark Patterns are tricks used in websites and apps that make you do things you didn’t mean to, like buying or signing up for something.
It’s called “Dark” UX because designers create an experience (often purposely) that pushes users in a direction that benefits the interests of the company/business rather than the user.
Example: Bait & Switch Pattern
“You set out to do one thing, but a different, undesirable thing happens instead.”
2. Light UX Patterns / Ideal / Ethical UX 😇
You guessed it correctly. Light ‘UX’ patterns are the opposite of Dark UX patterns. Simply reverse the definition of Dark UX patterns and you’d end up with ideal UX patterns that have the best interest of the user in mind (but do they always?)
Example: Notify Me before Subscription Renews
“We should keep our users informed and allow them to cancel their subscription after a free trial if it’s no longer of use to them.”
A new kid on the block!
3. ‘Cool Gray 1 C’ UX Pattern ☯️
That’s a silly Pantone joke for you. In case you’re still wondering, here’s the hex value for Cool Gray 1 C: #D9D9D6
