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UX Audit - why is it useful?

Have you ever wonder why some websites do not convert? Is it because they are not as visually appealing as others? Well, it might be something wrong about the information architecture, or the user flow. And UX audit can help uncovering design system breakdowns, the problems of the low conversion rate of the websites or apps, then the UX designer will tackle these issues.

You may think, hey Jacqueline, we just need a MVP so we can launch quickly to generate revenue! Why do we need to care about that? My answer? UX audit can actually save you costs and generate more business returns, thus create a better version of MVP - Minimum Lovable Product.

This is why the role of UX designer is essential. He/She will analyse and provide design solutions that can move the needle for users. Eventually, users goals and business objectives are met.

What are the steps to taken when I do the UX audit?

First you need to identity the scope of the audit. I think it is more productive to choose the most complex area or the most problematic area based on customer feedback. The audit can be based on heuristics as a framework for evaluation.

  1. Understand the business needs and the target market
  2. Figure out the user goals
  3. Review the metrics/traffic that reflect the conversion
  4. Competitors' analysis
  5. Search Analysis
  6. Usability testing / Heat maps analysis / Navigation testing
  7. Wireframing & Prototyping

The usability testing covers the following elements:

  • Navigation
  • Text and non-text elements
  • Labelling, CTA message
  • Controls
  • Accessibility
  • Controls/links
  • Feedbacks
  • Visual Hierarchy

UX audit report with action plan

A UX audit report will be produced, documenting the usability issues or elements that hinder the conversion. Along with the suggestions of the improvements with the support of mockups. Depends on the complexity of the website/digital products, the length of the report varies.

Final thoughts

I believe that user-centered design plays a vital role in the product development process. As I'm more a strategic planning person, nothing is more fulfilling than making positive changes by doing analysis for digital products and suggest improvements accordingly.