What Do We Assume? Challenging Assumptions in UX Design

In UX design, assumptions are everywhere. We assume users will understand a feature, that they’ll follow a certain path, or that they need a solution before truly understanding their problem. But assumptions can be dangerous—they can lead to design decisions that don’t align with real user needs. So, what do we assume, and how can we challenge these assumptions to create better experiences?

The Hidden Risks of Assumptions

Assumptions often stem from personal experiences, internal biases, or even past successes. However, relying on these without validation can result in:

• Unusable Features – Users might not interact with a design as expected.

• Wasted Resources – Teams spend time and effort building something that isn’t needed.

• Frustrated Users – Poor assumptions lead to confusing or frustrating user experiences.

By questioning and validating assumptions, UX designers can ensure they design for reality, not just expectations.

Common UX Assumptions That Need to Be Challenged

1. “Users Will Read Instructions”

Many designers assume that users will take the time to read tooltips, onboarding screens, or help sections. However, research shows that most users prefer to explore a product intuitively rather than reading text-heavy explanations. Instead of relying on instructions, designers should focus on creating self-explanatory and intuitive interfaces.

2. “If It Works for Me, It Works for Everyone”

It’s easy to believe that if a design makes sense to the team, it will also make sense to users. However, users come from diverse backgrounds, with different levels of tech familiarity, disabilities, and cultural differences. Conducting user testing with a variety of participants ensures that the design is accessible and effective for a broader audience.

3. “Users Know What They Want”

While user feedback is invaluable, people often struggle to articulate what they need. Users may request features they think will help but actually won’t solve their problems. Instead of taking feedback at face value, UX designers should dig deeper by observing behavior, conducting usability tests, and understanding the underlying pain points.

4. “More Features = Better Experience”

Adding more features doesn’t always mean a better product. Overloading an interface with options can confuse users and create unnecessary complexity. The best UX designs focus on simplicity, prioritizing essential features that align with user needs.

5. “Users Will Use the Product as Intended”

People often find unexpected ways to use a product. Instead of assuming a fixed path, designers should be open to exploring alternative user behaviors and adapting the design accordingly. Observing real users can reveal insights that lead to improvements and innovations.

How to Challenge Assumptions in UX Design

1. Ask “Why?” and “What If?”

Before accepting an assumption, question its validity. Ask:

• Why do we believe this?

• What if this assumption is wrong?

• How can we test this?

  
  

2. Validate with Real Users

Conduct usability tests, A/B testing, and surveys to gather real insights. Observing users in action can reveal mismatches between assumptions and reality.

3. Prototype and Iterate

Build quick prototypes and test them with users before investing in full-scale development. Iterative testing helps uncover flawed assumptions early.

4. Embrace Data Over Gut Feelings

Use analytics, heatmaps, and feedback loops to make informed design decisions rather than relying solely on intuition or past experiences.

Conclusion: Design for Reality, Not Assumptions

Assumptions are a natural part of UX design, but they should never go unchallenged. By questioning, testing, and validating our assumptions, we create experiences that truly serve users. Next time you find yourself assuming something about your audience, take a step back and ask: What do we assume, and how do we know it’s true?

By designing based on real user behavior, rather than assumptions, we can build products that are not only functional but truly meaningful.