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Feedback helps users understand the outcome of their actions from "summary" of Design for How People Think by John Whalen Ph.D.
Feedback is a fundamental aspect of human cognition, as it helps individuals make sense of the world around them. When users interact with a system or product, they take actions based on their expectations and goals. These actions result in outcomes, which may align with or diverge from what users anticipated. Feedback serves as a communication channel between the system and the user, providing information about the consequences of their actions. By receiving feedback, users can adjust their mental models and behavior to better align with the system's requirements. Feedback helps users understand the causal relationship between their actions and the outcomes, enabling them to make informed decisions. Without feedback, users would be left in the dark, unsure of whether their actions were successful or not. Feedback can take various forms, such as visual cues, auditory signals, or haptic responses. These modalities cater to different sensory preferences, ensuring that users receive information in a format that resonates with them. For example, a green checkmark can indicate success, while a red X can signal failure. These visual cues are intuitive and provide immediate clarity to users about the outcome of their actions. In addition to providing information about the outcome, feedback can also guide users towards their goals. Positive feedback can reinforce desired behaviors, while negative feedback can discourage unwanted actions. By leveraging feedback strategically, designers can influence user behavior and promote engagement with the system. Furthermore, feedback can help users learn from their mistakes and improve their performance over time. By highlighting errors or inefficiencies, feedback nudges users towards more effective strategies. This iterative process of action-feedback-adjustment is essential for skill acquisition and mastery.- Feedback is a powerful tool for shaping user behavior and promoting understanding. By delivering timely and relevant feedback, designers can facilitate users' comprehension of the outcomes of their actions. This mutual exchange of information fosters a dynamic relationship between the user and the system, leading to more effective interactions and positive user experiences.
