When we hear the word interface, many of us think about graphical user interface (or GUI).
The vast majority of digital products available on the market today have this key in of interface.
However, we have a more natural and intuitive form of interaction voice.
Voice recognition accuracy has reached90% or greater.
Users quickly adopt voice-enabled interfaces.
Today we stand on the cusp of a fundamental shift in how we interact with computers.
As designers, we need to be ready to design for this new medium.
In this article, I want to focus on 6 things designers need to keep in mind for VUI.
Focusing on building trust
Trust is a fundamental requirement for creating a bridge between a person and a machine.
If trust is absent, users will unlikely interact with a machine.
Thats why building a trust should be a top priority for designers.
Two factors have a significant impact on the level of trust in voice-enabled interfaces:valid outcomeanduser control.
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Valid outcomeWhen users interact with a voice-enabled system, they expect to get just what they requested.
When designing VUIs, designers need to think about the objective of the voice interactions (intent).
When users interact with a system, they have a goal they venture to accomplish.
POD is an attempt to fill this gap of knowledge.
POD simplifies the process of what the system does right now and shows this information to the user.
Here are a few practical tips for designers who will want to apply this rule:
2.
Easing cognitive load
Why do people like voice-enabled interfaces?
Because they have them save time.
Efficiency is the primary motivation for using voice.
Well-designed contextual instruction will help users navigate, find information, and understand their current location.
In the USA,65% of regular voice userscarry out voice interactions while driving.
As people become more comfortable with VUIs, public usage may increase.
For example, well probably see more voice interactions with smart headsets such as Apples AirPods.
Voice technology can also help people in public spaces such as in public transport.
Today people have to spend extra time to learn how to use a ticket machine.
Voice-enabled systems will reduce the time required to purchase a ticket.
Considering personal privacy
Data privacy is another significant challenge for designers.
Users are looking for guaranteed of personal privacy.
Designers need to prioritize transparency when crafting a VUI system.
The rise of proactive VUIs
Proactive VUIs are systems that will help us with everyday activities.
As voice assistants get smarter, they have the potential to evolve into proactive services.
Designing VUIs that convey personality
Today many voice-enabled systems use voice that sounds too robotic, with little personality.
But this will change soon.
With the rise of voice-enabled systems, companies will think about the actual voice of their brands.
Conclusion
Soon people will think of voice as a natural way of interfacing with products and services.
Gleb brings us the future in a way that users can feel connected to.
His passion for creating is matched only by his endless desire to learn.
No industry or category is out of bounds.
No platform is off-limits.
From prototyping to CGI, Gleb brings an unmatched range of skill and artistry to each new project.
Gleb is the founder of Milkinsidethe Mobile UX 2018 Boutique Agency of the Year.
