Employing UX principles in Artificial Intelligence design

Artificial intelligence (AI) is slowly dominating our world. From Tesla’s auto-pilot technology to disease mapping, we can see the increasing prevalence of AI. What is the role of UX in AI? Here are three ways to incorporate UX into your AI design. 

1. Focus on the user

Even when using AI, it’s important to consider the user’s needs. Use user research to collect valuable insights that can be utilized during the design process. Not everyone is familiar with Machine learning systems, so be sure to consider the user’s level of experience. The user’s personality, demographics, and prior experiences may also influence how trusting and familiar they are with AI. Designing a simple interface that makes the AI decision-making process transparent to the user will help build trust. 

2. Explain the tech

With something as complex as AI, the user should understand what the machine is learning. By allowing users to ask questions and providing supplemental information about the AI, users will become more comfortable with your interface. Test different visualizations to figure out how  users react to various information displays. Especially maintain this transparency regarding the reasons behind system recommendations. Make clear what user data your AI is collecting and what it intends to do with the data. 

3. Utilize Feedback

At the end of the day, AI is all about feedback. The beauty of Machine Learning are its capabilities to drastically improve UX design based on user feedback. Make your content personalized and use data to improve interactions. While building up your algorithm is important, also allow the user to interfere if necessary. Giving the user control to stop data collection makes them feel more empowered in the seemingly powerless world of AI, enhancing their experience.

Final Thoughts

Artificial intelligence is powerful. By using feedback to target your target population while maintaining transparency, you can build a trusting relationship with users while maximizing the benefits of machine learning.