In this introductory module, I learned about the foundations of user-centred design and the necessary mindset for creating high-quality digital products. This module gave me an understanding of the user-experience design process, the steps involved, the importance of each step, and how each step builds on the other throughout the process.

I learned that UX design is primarily a problem-solving discipline that focuses on discovering and solving problems for end-users. I explored some of the risks and pitfalls of traditional software development and learned how a well-executed UX design process can mitigate these risks. This process involves making decisions based around research findings and insights, not assumptions.

This module provided a solid jumping-off point for delving into the specifics of the user-experience design process.

Topics covered in Module 1

• Humans v. machines

• Feature overload

• Shortcuts

• Prototyping

• Prioritisation

• Goals, behaviours, context

• Paradox of specificity

• Mental models

• User experience

• Functional design

• Product integrity

• Product desirability

• UX design process

• Process benefits

• UX and Agile process

• User interface design