The first part of our technical review examined how UX design supports creative processes, designs Conversational AIs, and integrates Human Factors into transport systems. One workshop also demonstrated how AI tools can be used to increase the efficiency of the design and development process.
In this second part of the review, we focus on the remaining four programme points of World Usability Day 2024, which presented impressive approaches to inclusive and future-oriented UX design. These contributions once again highlighted how important the focus on inclusivity and human-centred design is for the future of UX design. Whether in workshops, urban spaces, generative interfaces, or new technologies – the human being always remains at the centre.
The diversity of these contributions reflected the role of UX design in tackling complex challenges and developing sustainable, human-centred solutions.
Clear Communication for B2B Data Interaction: UX Writing Workshop
Birgit Horn from Invision once again led a practical workshop on UX writing. With 25 participants from the fields of UX writing and design, the workshop provided a platform for exchange and for developing clear and standardised texts for typical B2B software actions such as creating, editing, or deleting data (CRUD functions).
A particular focus was placed on error messages, which, rather than presenting vague prompts like “Error occurred,” should offer specific guidance. The design of icons and buttons was also discussed – specifically the question of when an icon alone is sufficient and when explanatory text is necessary. Consistency for a unified user experience was central to these discussions. Standardising text patterns was another key focus area. This approach simplifies translations and enhances usability without losing the necessary flexibility.
Practical exercises and well-founded tips demonstrated how concise texts and well-thought-out visualisations can effectively improve the user experience. The workshop offered participants valuable insights for their daily work.
Feminist UX Design: Safety in Cities and Inclusivity in E-Commerce
Margarita Osipova and her co-presenter Urszula Kulon from Bauhaus University Weimar demonstrated how UX design can make digital and urban spaces safer and more inclusive for women. Their feminist approach, which emphasises pluralism and participation, illustrated how design can purposefully improve quality of life.
Inclusivity in Fashion E-Commerce
In the first part of the presentation, Urszula analysed women’s experiences on fashion e-commerce websites. Studies showed that ill-fitting online purchases often have negative effects on self-image. In response, a prototype website was developed, incorporating features such as avatars based on personal measurements, more realistic models in diverse poses, and more precise size specifications. The website also considers different body types, skin tones, and age groups to address a broader spectrum of users. These measures not only improve the user experience but also help reduce returns and their ecological impact.
Safety in Smart Cities
The second part of the presentation highlighted how UX design can better protect women in urban spaces. Studies show that technologies often intervene only after danger has already occurred – an approach Margarita criticised as insufficient. Instead, preventive solutions should be developed to minimise risks early on.
Research conducted in Berlin, Cairo, and Melbourne identified specific challenges: from harassment on public transport to legal gaps in protection. Margarita stressed that solutions such as smart urban planning or preventive safety measures need to be complemented by a feminist co-design approach. Only through the active involvement of those affected can urban spaces be created that promote both safety and inclusivity.
A truly “smart” city does not begin with reactive measures but with preventive, human-centred design that places safety at the forefront from the beginning. The presentation made it clear that UX design, by considering human perspectives and needs, plays a key role in creating more inclusive and safer spaces. Margarita emphasised that the key to a better world lies in active listening – and in design that reflects the true diversity of people.
Generative UI: Improving Usability through AI
Holm Hänsel, UX Designer at Jambit, showed in his presentation how Generative UI (GenUI) enables personalised user experiences through AI. Instead of standardised interfaces, GenUI allows for dynamic adjustments based on usage behaviour and individual data. Holm presented examples such as accessible designs for people with dyslexia, which use high-contrast surfaces and simplified texts.
This approach offers clear advantages: precisely tailored products increase user satisfaction and loyalty, while automated processes remain efficient and scalable. Designers take on a strategic role by defining rule sets for the AI.
However, challenges exist in the quality of the data used. Biased or incomplete data can result in flawed designs, and data protection remains a critical issue. Holm stressed that GenUI provides tools, but human control and strategic oversight remain indispensable. His conclusion: GenUI shifts the focus in UX design towards data-driven, results-oriented user experiences – a significant advancement in interface design.
Brain-Body Interaction: Pathways to an Inclusive Future
Ravi Kanth Kosuru from Fraunhofer IAO highlighted in his presentation how neurophysiologically based interfaces have the potential to create innovative technologies for greater inclusion. These systems are designed to take into account the diversity of human abilities, enabling barrier-free interactions in both private and professional contexts.
Ravi examined the development of human-technology interaction and noted that the focus is increasingly on automated and cognitive technologies. An example of these advancements is the context-sensitive communication system KONTAKT. Using eye-tracking and sensors that analyse the conversational environment, it enables people with impairments to input text more quickly and communicate more effectively. Context-sensitive word suggestions and optimised user interfaces make interaction simpler.
Understanding the neurophysiological responses of users is central to the further development of such technologies. Ravi presented various approaches to measuring and evaluating cognitive load, attention, and stress levels. Projects like “UFO” use these insights to create VR-supported learning environments that adapt in real time to users’ mental demands. The goal is to support neurodivergent individuals in everyday life. More immersive learning experiences can be facilitated by incorporating neuroadaptive feedback and tactile signals, further promoting inclusion.
Finally, Ravi emphasised that an inclusive future requires overcoming interaction barriers and developing technologies that adapt flexibly. Human diversity should not be seen as a hurdle but as an opportunity for innovative technologies.
Outlook: Human-Centred Design as a Guiding Principle for the Future
The second part of our technical review demonstrates the versatility and forward-looking orientation of the contributions at WUD 2024. From UX writing standards to AI-driven interfaces, feminist perspectives, and neurophysiological approaches – all programme points underscored how UX design can foster inclusivity, precision, and context.
Practical applications such as accessible interfaces in healthcare, adaptive workplaces, or safer smart cities offer promising perspectives. World Usability Day has once again shown: UX design is not only a creative craft but also a key competency for shaping our shared future.
