In software development, success is often measured by technical milestones — features that work as intended and meet functional requirements. However, a project can technically succeed while failing to deliver a positive user experience (UX), leading to poor adoption and eventual failure. As RevStar’s UX/UI Design Lead Oleg Greegoriyev points out, “Software development is meaningless if the end product’s use repels its users.”
Frequently, UX issues arise because UX design is treated as an afterthought, something to be addressed post-release. This approach is not only short-sighted but also costly. Attempting to fix core UX problems after launch usually requires a complete overhaul, which could be avoided by implementing a more user-centered approach from the beginning.
Why Tech-Centric Development Falls Short
For many clients and developers, technical performance takes priority. Success is viewed in simple terms of functionality: does the feature work or not? But this narrow focus overlooks a crucial aspect — how users feel when interacting with the software. Focusing solely on technical goals without prioritizing UX can result in a technically sound product that users find frustrating or confusing.
As Oleg emphasizes, “The biggest mistake is to start thinking about UX after the release and try to solve issues post-launch. By that stage, problems are often so core that they’re impossible to fix without a total rework.”
Integrating UX from the Start: Key Solutions for Success
A proactive approach to UX can prevent these common pitfalls. Here are essential steps to incorporate UX into the development process effectively:
1. Embed UX Testing in the Development Pipeline
Adding UX testing during development ensures that every feature is evaluated for usability, not just functionality. Including UX as part of regular sprint cycles means user-centric insights are gathered and applied early, reducing the likelihood of post-launch issues.
2. Polish UX Through Sprint Planning
“Delivering good UX without actually using and refining it is nearly impossible,” says Oleg. It’s important to allocate time in each sprint to test and polish the UX of completed features, ensuring they offer a smooth experience. This ongoing iteration allows for refinement and improvement at each stage rather than waiting for after-launch adjustments.
3. Shift the Focus to ‘How’ It Works, Not Just ‘If’
All team members, from developers to clients, should consider how the software feels to users during development. Evaluating the user’s experience shouldn’t be left until the post-release stage, as this can lead to rushed or incomplete fixes. Although this approach may seem to slow development, it actually streamlines the process and saves time in the long run.
4. Advise Clients on Feature Balance
Clients are often eager to add as many features as possible. However, an MVP that’s simple yet user-friendly is far more effective than a feature-rich product that’s difficult to navigate. Guide clients to balance feature quantity with quality, aiming for a positive initial user experience rather than a crowded interface.
5. Differentiate Between QA Testing and UX Testing
Many clients conflate QA with UX, assuming that if a feature works technically, it’s ready for launch. However, as Oleg explains, “QA typically answers whether the feature works as described in the Acceptance Criteria, while UX testing examines how comfortable it is to use.” Educating clients on the difference allows for a more comprehensive testing approach, one that ensures both technical and experiential quality.
Why UX-Centered Development Matters
While UX-centered development may require additional resources and planning, the benefits far outweigh the costs. A smooth, intuitive user experience is crucial to software success, helping companies avoid the costly reworks that result from tech-centered development alone. As Oleg notes, “With proper planning, focusing on UX during development can prevent the sense that you’re falling behind schedule while keeping the user’s needs at the forefront.”
By investing in UX as an integral part of the development process, you not only create a product that works but one that users actually enjoy — a fundamental requirement for long-term success.
Schedule a call with RevStar Consulting to get a free consultation.
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