During my time as a Content Designer at Rabobank, I specialized in UX Writing. Within the course Fundamentals of UX Writing by the UX Content Collective, I gained theoretical knowledge, which I was able to apply in a case study as well as in my job. Here, I discuss some of the highlights I learned as well as some real-life applications and what I would have done differently.
Company
Rabobank, Freo
Software
Figma
Challenge
The course Fundamentals of UX Writing by the UX Content Collective consisted of two deliverables: a theoretical exam as well as a practical assignment. The goal of the course was to improve my writing skills from a theoretical UX perspective. Specifically, I wanted to improve my knowledge on microcopy, which improved both the deliverables as well as my reasoning behind them.
Responsibilities
Within the case study, I added copy to the provided design in Figma. Moreover, I added suggestions on how to improve the overall User Experience.
process
Theoretical Knowledge
The course consisted of six theoretical modules. The most interesting modules to me personally were on Voice and Tone, keeping it short, and writing for components. Some of the things I learned include:
Voice ensures a coherent experience. Do add value.
Front-load your micro copy. Scanning is key.
Shorter is not always better. Stay understandable.
Practical Assignment
The assignment was to add copy to the figma wireframes on an imaginary app called JobPay. In the app, freelancers and business owner are able to create a shared project, send and receive invoices, and keep track of their hours. The wireframes contained the whole user journey, from signing up to finishing a project.
The examiners provided me with lots of feedback to improve my writing skills. Some of the key learning for me were:
Don't be afraid to suggest design adjustments.
Don't try to be too likeable. Keep it informative.
Trust your gut. If you think it doesn't work it doesn't.
Implemented at the Rabobank
At the Rabobank, I worked for Freo, which is the label for Rabobank's Personal Loans. A good example of microcopy can be found on the loan application page. Here, a potential client provides their information to apply for a loan at Rabobank. It is a long form, and sometimes users are unsure why we ask them certain information.
To ease the users, we added a modal window explaining that we need to ensure the client will be able to pay their rent, whilst being able to still live comfortably. This component allows us to use a longer texts and is only visible to the user who needs it. Since the information in the modal window is not necessary to be able to complete the form, the component is suitable for this situation.
Key takeaways
To me, writing is challenging. Now that I know better what works and why, my skills have definitely improved. Even though I love discussing which words suit the context best, it drains energy from me if I have to go at it alone. The perfectionist in me find it hard to finalize my own writings when looking at it through a magnifying glass.
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