WWDC22: Writing for interfaces | Apple

Summary

This video emphasizes the importance of thoughtful and inclusive writing in app design. It highlights four key principles—Purpose, Anticipation, Context, and Empathy—that guide developers in crafting user-friendly and accessible interfaces. The script encourages developers to consider language early in the design process, with a focus on clear, simple communication. It also stresses the importance of adapting to different user needs, including localization and accessibility features. The video concludes with the tip to read writing aloud for clarity and to ensure it resonates with users, fostering respect and understanding in every interaction.

Takeaways

• 😀 Writing should always serve a clear purpose and guide users towards an expected outcome.
• 😀 Anticipating user needs is crucial—help users accomplish tasks easily without confusion.
• 😀 Context is key to ensure that the text matches the design and user environment, helping users understand their next steps.
• 😀 Empathy is essential when writing for apps—consider the emotional and cognitive experience of the user.
• 😀 Use simple language to make your app accessible to a broad audience.
• 😀 Be mindful of localization needs, such as text size adjustments for users from different regions or cultures.
• 😀 Design for accessibility by ensuring that the text works well with assistive technologies like VoiceOver.
• 😀 Regularly review and update the language used in your app to reflect evolving trends and societal changes.
• 😀 Incorporating thoughtful and inclusive language will help ensure your app or game is user-friendly and accessible.
• 😀 Reading your writing out loud is a great way to check if it sounds natural and conversational, like talking to a friend.
• 😀 Identify and fix repetitive words, grammatical errors, and typos by reviewing your text aloud to maintain clarity.

Q & A

Why is it important to consider writing early in the design process for apps or games?

Writing early is important because it allows designers to create a cohesive and user-friendly experience. It ensures that the text aligns with the app's or game's goals and enhances the overall user interaction.

What are the four key concepts mentioned for writing well-designed text in apps?

The four key concepts are Purpose, Anticipation, Context, and Empathy. These principles help ensure that the text is thoughtful, meaningful, and user-friendly.

How does 'Purpose' play a role in writing for apps or games?

'Purpose' ensures that each piece of text in an app or game serves a clear function, whether it provides important information, guides the user, or sets the tone for the experience.

What is meant by 'Anticipation' in writing for interfaces?

'Anticipation' refers to the ability to foresee what the user may need or expect at various points in the interaction, and ensuring the text supports those needs proactively.

Why is 'Context' important in writing for interfaces?

'Context' ensures that the text makes sense in the situation it appears, taking into account the current user actions, environment, and specific requirements of the interface.

How can 'Empathy' improve the user experience in writing for apps or games?

'Empathy' ensures that the language used is considerate of the user's emotions, understanding their frustrations and providing reassurance or guidance in a compassionate way.

What role does language evolution play in app and game design?

As language evolves, so should the text in apps and games. Regularly reviewing and updating the language ensures that it remains relevant, inclusive, and user-friendly.

What is the significance of designing for accessibility in app writing?

Designing for accessibility ensures that all users, including those with disabilities, can effectively interact with the app. This includes using thoughtful language for users who rely on VoiceOver or similar assistive technologies.

How can reading your writing out loud help improve it?

Reading out loud helps identify conversational tone, find unnecessary or repetitive words, and catch grammatical mistakes or typos that might be overlooked when reading silently.

What final tip is given to help improve the writing process for apps and games?

The final tip is to read your writing out loud. This can help ensure that the text is clear, engaging, and free of errors, making it sound more natural and user-friendly.