UX: Forgetting Curve in design
It is normal that you forgot xxx…
The Ebbinghaus forgetting curve is a theory developed by German psychologist Hermann Ebbinghaus in the late 1800s that describes how humans tend to forget newly learned information over time. According to this theory, people are more likely to forget information that they have recently learned, and the rate at which they forget this information decreases over time.
As a UX designer, it’s important to be aware of the Ebbinghaus forgetting curve and how it can impact the design of your products. One way to use this theory in UX design is by considering the frequency with which users will need to access and retain certain information.
For example, if a user will only need to use a feature of your product once or twice, it may be sufficient to provide them with a brief tutorial or onboarding experience.
However, if a user will need to use a feature frequently, it may be necessary to provide more in-depth training and ongoing support to help them retain the information they need to use the feature effectively.
Another way to apply the Ebbinghaus forgetting curve in UX design is by designing products that encourage users to revisit and reinforce their knowledge over time. This can be done through the use of reminders, prompts, and other nudges that encourage users to engage with the product and refresh their memory.
For example, you might include a notification that reminds users to review their progress on a task, or you might incorporate a “learn more” button that provides additional information about a particular feature.
It’s also important for UX designers to be aware of the factors that can influence the rate at which users forget information. Some of these factors include the complexity of the information, the user’s prior knowledge and experience, and the context in which the information is presented. By taking these factors into account, you can design products that are more effective at helping users retain and use the information they need.
In conclusion, the Ebbinghaus forgetting curve is an important theory for UX designers to consider when designing products. By understanding how users tend to forget information over time, you can design products that effectively support their learning and retention of key concepts and features. By considering the frequency with which users will need to access and retain information, and by designing products that encourage ongoing reinforcement of knowledge, you can create products that are more effective at helping users achieve their goals.
