Intelligibility

Unclear feedback or context

What is it?

Providing insufficient context around data may lead users to misinterpret the information, experience increased cognitive load as they try to decipher its meaning, or feel like the data is not relevant or helpful. Ultimately, insufficient data can result in users feeling less confident in the application and its value.

Examples

Insufficient explanation for complicated terms

Problematic "Save" behavior leading to lost changes

No suggestions when a search returns no results

Unexpected search modification leads to confusion

Untrustworthy customer reviews

Insufficient product value

Underlying principles

Progressive Disclosure

Progressive Disclosure

Progressive Disclosure

Socratic questioning

Socratic questioning

Socratic questioning

Guiding questions

Do users know what to do next based on the product's information?

Do users know what to do next based on the product's information?

Do users know what to do next based on the product's information?

What context would a user need to fully understand this information?

What context would a user need to fully understand this information?

What context would a user need to fully understand this information?

What questions arise for users when outcomes don't match their expectations?

What questions arise for users when outcomes don't match their expectations?

What questions arise for users when outcomes don't match their expectations?

What should users do if a task doesn't yield the expected outcome?

What should users do if a task doesn't yield the expected outcome?

What should users do if a task doesn't yield the expected outcome?