Crafting the Conclusion for Your Case Study: A Step-by-Step Guide
Alright, here's a refreshed version of your UX case study wrap-up article with a bit more sass:
Wrapping it All Up: Crafting an Unforgettable UX Case Study Ending
Alright, hotshot, you've nailed that UX project, documenting every step of the way, and now it's time to spin up a killer case study to make your mark. You've showcased your Design Thinking process like a pro, and now it's just the last mile - the conclusion. You might think, "Hey, I've already done the hard part," but don't sleep on this bit, partner. Here's why.
Last Impressions Matter - Big Time
People might tell you first impressions are everything, but let's not forget our good ol' mates at psychology who've shown us that last impressions can pack a punch too. The name of the game is the serial position effect - you remember the very first and last bits of information, while the middle gets a bit hazy. So, you've got one shot to seal the deal and leave an impact that'll stick with 'em like glue.
What to Shove in There
Think of your case study conclusion as your chance to dot the i's and cross the t's, summing up the goodness that is your UX project. Here are four juicy options to consider:
Lessons Learned
Share the knowledge, my friend. Compartmentalize those key insights from user research and design evaluations that helped you figure out the peoples' deets. It'll show recruiters you're one sharp cookie who's always ready to learn and crush it.
Impact, Bro
If you don't brag about your results, nobody will. Show 'em the numbers, baby. Ain't no shame in that game. Gotta demonstrate how your magic touch led to improved user experiences and boosted that bottom line.
Reflections Are Rad
Take a moment to wax poetic about the challenges you faced and the ways you overcame them. You're a glorious warrior, after all. And if you found out something new about yourself or your abilities during this project, spill the tea.
Give Acknowledgments
If this project was a team effort, give credit where credit's due. Sure, you're the UX superstar, but there's no dickhead IQ scores to win here. Show some humility, and shout out the great work your team did.
Size Matters
Keep it tight but impactful. Ain't nobody got time for a novel. Two to three sentences should do the trick, unless you're working on something insanely complex. Remember, it's a final impression, not a final exam. Keep it short, sweet, and memorable.
The Final Takedown
Wrap up your case study with a bang, not a whimper. Sum up your key takeaways, leave them hungry for more, and make it clear what you've got up your sleeve next. And don't forget to kick that serial position effect into overdrive with a kickass conclusion that'll echo through their thoughts like the final chords of a badass rock song.
References & Where to Learn MoreAtkinson, R. C., & Shriffin, R. M. (1968). Chapter: Human memory: A proposed system and its control processes. In Spence, K. W., & Spence, J. T. The psychology of learning and motivation (Volume 2). New York: Academic Press. pp. 89-195.McLeod, S. (2008). Serial position effect. Retrieved from https://www.simplypsychology.org/serial-position-effect.html.
Enrichment Data:- Summarize Key Findings - Recap the initial problem or challenge - Outline the specific UX changes implemented - Highlight the outcomes, including any metrics or improvements achieved- Emphasize Impact and Takeaways - Explain how the UX changes reflected on business goals - Discuss how the changes improved user experience - Distill the most important insights from the case study- Leave a Lasting Impression - Suggest potential future UX improvements - Highlight the universal application of findings - Use storytelling to create a memorable and relatable conclusion
In the realm of interaction design, the conclusion of your UX case study acts as a perfect opportunity for prototyping—the chance to summarize key findings, emphasize impact, and leave a lasting impression. This summary could include the initial problem or challenge, the specific UX changes implemented, and the outcomes achieved, including any metrics or improvements. The conclusion should also highlight how these changes reflected on business goals and improved user experience, distilling the most important insights from the case study. It's essential to use storytelling techniques to create a relatable and memorable ending, potentially hinting at potential future UX improvements and the universal application of findings in technology and design.
