Newton UX Scale
In my opinion the applications we create, be they delivered via web, desktop or on devices can be, broken down in to two categories:
- Have to use
- Choose to use
In both cases the importance of a great user experience cannot be understated. To help evaluate the user experiences I deliver, I have created the Newton UX Scale. This is not to be confused with the Newton Scale (a temperature scale devised by Isaac Newton in 1701).
The Newton UX Scale assumes that users are in a neutral state of happiness at the point of first use.
| Newton UX Scale | ||
|---|---|---|
| Score | User Sentiment | Description |
| 2 | 'MEH...' | If you can achieve this on the scale, then you're doing well. Give yourselves a pat on the back! |
| 3 | Mildly Miffed | There's clearly room for improvement. Some user experience testing is recommended. |
| 4 | I Give Up | All goodwill has been lost and if your user doesn't have to use your application then they wont. |
| 5 | Livid | Your team should be running around like headless chickens working out how to make things much better. Apologies should be issued to user. Perhaps send flowers too. |
| 6 | Lost the will to live | Give up. Seriously. It's time to delete your application or simply start again. |
In the case of a user who chooses to use your application: if the user experience registers up to 4 on the scale then you have lost them. They will likely abandon the use of your application be hesitant to return to it.
In the case of a user who has to use your application: a score of four or higher will create a very disgruntled user base. Expect a lynch mob to be marching on your offices with pitchforks!