Hey everyone,
Hold on tight because we're about to launch into another insightful exploration of the design and startup spheres. This time, we're going off the beaten path and into the realm of design missteps - because hey, we learn just as much from fumbles as we do from wins, right?
There's nothing like having a go-to product that never lets you down. For me, that's Allbirds sneakers 👟. You might say it's a startup enthusiast stereotype, but hey, they're comfortable, stylish, and durable! I usually burn through a pair every six months and then it's straight onto the next one - always a size W6, in either black, white, or, on occasion, grey, when I'm feeling a little adventurous.
But my last pair... they had a different plan. They felt more snug than usual, and not in a 'they just need to break in' kind of way. I optimistically thought they'd stretch over time, given the fabric's usually forgiving nature, but these shoes seemed determined to go their own way.
The truth was revealed during a routine laundry day. Two supposedly identical pairs of white Allbirds turned out to be imposters - one was 0.5cm smaller! Upon comparing with an older pair, the inconsistency was glaring.
This situation is a textbook example of a design hiccup leading to a potentially disgruntled, and possibly ex-customer. If there's a need to adjust a product feature, like size, it's essential to let your customers in on the change.
My suggestion? Tweak the product naming convention or make it crystal clear at checkout. A simple alert banner could save a lot of confusion and preserve trust.
According to Allbirds website US 6 is EU 36 or 23cm. Well, the reality is sometimes different.Â
Design Lesson: Clear Communication is Key
As we round off, here's my nugget of design wisdom: Consistency is vital, but when it's compromised, transparency steps up to the plate!
Consistency in user experience sets and meets expectations, which is a cornerstone of customer satisfaction. But when changes are unavoidable, maintaining transparency ensures customer trust isn't broken. Always keep your users in the loop, whether through a newsletter, your app or website, or your other chosen mean of communication. Remember, they're not just buying a product; they're building a relationship with your brand. And as we all know, communication is key to any successful relationship.
Until next time, keep innovating!
Thank you for reading,
Eva.