What if consensus isn’t the goal in UX?

Picture the pursuit of consensus in design as a well-intentioned detour, leading us away from our true destination: understanding and addressing the user's needs. When we chase agreement among colleagues, we risk losing sight of the real goal—creating meaningful and impactful experiences for users. So, why is consensus a misguided target in UX?

Peer feedback is no substitute for field testing

Gathering input from friends and co-workers might seem like a shortcut to validation, but it can't replicate the authenticity of real user interactions. Genuine user experiences, complete with their needs, pains, and emotions, hold the key to unlocking valuable insights. By focusing on actual user feedback, we can avoid the false positives and negatives that come from well-meaning peers.

The quality of feedback matters more than the quantity

Receiving praise from colleagues can be gratifying, but it doesn't guarantee the success of our designs. Instead, let's embrace a human-centered approach that values empathy, curiosity, and open conversations. Seek feedback not as a verdict, but as a catalyst for discussion, research, and iteration.

Small sample sizes can lead us astray

Asking a handful of people for their opinions is a far cry from testing with a larger audience. Trusting in the expertise of your design team and user insights can be more valuable than chasing validation from a small, potentially biased group. Focus on what truly matters—the user experience.