Understanding Users: Hayao Miyazaki’s Approach Beyond Reviews
“I never read reviews. I’m not interested. But I value a lot the reactions of the spectators.”
– Hayao Miyazaki
The Essence of User Reactions in UX and Product Design
Hayao Miyazaki, a legendary figure in the world of animation, once said, “I never read reviews. I’m not interested. But I value a lot the reactions of the spectators.” This perspective is a profound lesson for those in user experience (UX) and product design. While user reviews offer valuable insights, they often don’t capture the full spectrum of user engagement and emotion. The real goldmine lies in observing and understanding user reactions. This post explores this concept, highlighting the significance of user reactions in enhancing UX and product design, supported by real-life case studies.
The Limitations of Reviews
While reviews are a common form of user feedback, they have their limitations. Reviews are subjective and can be influenced by temporary emotions or external factors. They often represent the extremes – the very satisfied or the very dissatisfied – rather than the average user experience. This skewed representation can lead to misguided conclusions about a product’s performance or usability.
Case Study: Apple’s Shift from Skeuomorphism to Minimalism
Apple’s transition from skeuomorphic to minimalistic design in iOS 7 is a classic example. The initial rollout was met with significant user resistance, reflected in numerous negative reviews. However, Apple understood the importance of long-term user reactions over immediate reviews. Over time, users adapted, and the minimalist design became a benchmark in UI design, demonstrating the need to balance initial reviews with user adaptation over time.
Case Study: Netflix’s Algorithm Change
Another insightful case study is Netflix’s decision to replace its star-rating system with a thumbs-up/thumbs-down model. Initially, this change received mixed reviews, with many users expressing dissatisfaction at losing the perceived precision of the star system. However, Netflix’s user behavior data suggested that binary feedback would result in more accurate recommendations. As users experienced improved personalization, the initial criticism waned, validating Netflix’s decision to prioritize user behavior data over initial review feedback.
The Significance of Direct Observation
Direct observation of users interacting with a product can uncover insights that are often missed in reviews. This method reveals the users’ unfiltered responses, their struggles, hesitations, and delights in real-time, offering a more authentic picture of their experience.
3. Automotive Industry:
The Role of Emotional Design
Understanding user reactions is key to emotional design. Products that evoke positive emotions are more likely to be successful. Observing user reactions helps in identifying design elements that trigger emotions like joy, frustration, or confusion, enabling designers to make more informed decisions.
User Testing as a Tool for Insight
User testing is essential in capturing authentic user reactions. It involves observing users in real or simulated environments, providing qualitative insights that are invaluable in refining product design and functionality.
A Holistic Approach to User Feedback
A balanced approach that combines user reactions with reviews offers a comprehensive understanding of user needs. While reviews provide broad, quantitative data, user reactions offer deeper, qualitative insights, enabling a more nuanced approach to product design.
Continuous Learning and Evolution
The landscape of user preferences is ever-evolving, and so should be the approach to product design. Continuous user testing and adaptation are crucial in ensuring that products remain relevant and resonate with users.
Conclusion
The insights from Hayao Miyazaki’s perspective on user feedback underscore the importance of focusing on user reactions in UX and product design. Real-life case studies like Apple’s UI transition and Netflix’s rating system change demonstrate the value of understanding and prioritizing user reactions over reviews. By adopting a holistic approach that values direct observation and emotional design, and by embracing continuous learning and evolution, designers and creators can develop products that truly resonate with their audience.
About Hayao Miyazaki
Hayao Miyazaki, born January 5, 1941, in Tokyo, Japan, is a titan in the world of animation, known for his groundbreaking work and profound influence on the anime genre. A co-founder of the acclaimed Studio Ghibli, Miyazaki has crafted an illustrious career that has reshaped the landscape of animated film. His unique storytelling, characterized by its depth and imagination, has garnered a global audience and critical acclaim.
Miyazaki’s works are celebrated for their intricate narratives, richly detailed animation, and exploration of complex themes such as the relationship between humanity and nature, the trials of growing up, and the gray areas of morality. Among his numerous acclaimed films, “Spirited Away” stands out as a particularly monumental achievement, having won the Academy Award for Best Animated Feature in 2003, a first for a film in the Japanese language.
Throughout his career, Miyazaki has been a vocal advocate for environmentalism and pacifism, themes often reflected in his storytelling. After a brief retirement, he returned to the film industry with his latest work, “The Boy and the Heron” (Golden Globe Winner for best animated motion picture). This film, like his others, showcases his trademark blend of fantastical elements and heartfelt storytelling, continuing to solidify his legacy as a master storyteller and a visionary in the realm of animation. His enduring impact on both the animation industry and popular culture cements Miyazaki not just as a celebrated filmmaker, but as an enduring icon of artistic excellence and innovation.
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“I never read reviews. I’m not interested. But I value a lot the reactions of the spectators.” – Hayao Miyazaki
Understanding Users: Hayao Miyazaki’s Approach Beyond Reviews
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