Blockchain has been a major buzzword for more than a decade since it entered the world of finance and technology through the big door. Today, blockchain is being used by businesses, companies, and individuals across different industries, all around the globe. And, while this decentralized and transparent digital currency is a major hit, there are still so many people who see it as nothing else but a buzzword.
This is mostly because people aren't sure how it works, how to use it, or what it can do for them. Blockchain-based applications and systems are thus deciding to create better UX designs for blockchain and help people use it seamlessly and stress-free.
This article breaks down the key principles of designing for blockchain and creating the simplest and most effective UX. Let’s see what they are.
Image taken from Pexels
Simplicity
Blockchain may sound simple to someone who’s been studying it and using it for years. But, to a beginner, the whole technology sounds rather complicated.
UX design for blockchain needs to help the users go from not knowing anything to using the application confidently. That implies:
- presenting information as simply as possible
- creating straightforward interactions
- explaining different processes
Also, the app needs to give people information about the benefits and advantages of using certain processes or choosing different options. The simpler you make it, the more people are going to use it.
Active Guidance
As the users are onboarding, they’ll be facing a lot of new challenging terminology and concepts they don’t understand. If they’re not sure what they’re doing, they’re more likely to give up.
UX design for blockchain has to include active guidance of the users through this entire process. They need explanations of concepts like a digital wallet, private key, public key, and more.
Also, they'll need guidance every step of the way when making their first transactions or handling any kind of business on the app.
Security Practices
You want to keep your users safe and protected. But it’s not all up to you. They need to act responsibly and follow the recommended security practices. These practices need to be reinforced by the UX design to keep the users reminded and educated.
Those practices include:
- multi-factor authentication
- security information clearly stated
- visual presentation of good and poor security practices (e.g., red and green alert signs)
- multiple confirmations steps for transactions
- security updates
Also, make sure to send regular emails about potential scams, send videos of common mistakes, and constantly reinforce the message of following safe practices.
Preventing Mistakes
When your users lack experience or simply aren't informed enough, they'll tend to make mistakes while using your app. Since it's the blockchain we're dealing with, these mistakes can end up being pricy and lead them to quit using your app or the blockchain technology altogether.
Typically, people make mistakes like:
- sending funds to the wrong person
- falling for scams and schemes
- accidentally deleting wallets or private keys without backup
- not complying with laws
- not updating their apps and systems
As their support system, you need to anticipate that they might make such mistakes and warn them whenever you get the chance. Through onboarding, guidance, tips, and reminders, you can prevent them from making irreversible mistakes.
Ask for Feedback
Blockchain technology is growing and evolving, which means you’ll be updating your app regularly. After introducing new features, options, and experiences, you need to hear back from the users.
Is the new feature useful? Do they have any complaints? Are there any bugs or errors? Is the new experience better than the previous one?
So, make sure your UX design includes a place where they can write their feedback and help you make the app better for them.
Final Thoughts
The power of UX design for blockchain is more than what meets the eye. While aesthetic layouts and nice colors appeal to the average user, UX design needs to help the user use the app safely, responsibly, and properly.
The key principles we’ve shared above are a must when designing for blockchain. Make sure you tick each of the boxes to provide a supreme user experience and the best user satisfaction for your app users.