Feature bloat is a significant challenge, but by adopting a combination of modern methodologies, we can address it effectively:
— JTBD (Jobs To Be Done) Framework: Central to our approach is understanding the core tasks users want to achieve. By focusing on the essential jobs, we can align features directly with user goals, ensuring each addition serves a genuine purpose.
— CJM (Customer Journey Mapping): Mapping out the user’s journey lets us visualise the touchpoints and interactions a user has with the product. This clarity helps identify redundancy or friction areas, allowing for a more streamlined experience.
— Lean UX and HADI Cycle: We adopt a Lean UX approach paired with the HADI (Hypothesize, Act, Data, Interpret) cycle. This combination lets us make hypotheses about feature utility, act on them through design iterations, gather data from user interactions, and continually interpret results to refine the features.
— AAARRRR Framework: By considering the AAARRRR (Awareness, Acquisition, Activation, Retention, Revenue, Referral, Resurrection) funnel, we ensure that each feature contributes positively to the user's lifecycle. If a part doesn't align with any of these stages, its necessity comes into question.
— Continuous Feedback Loops: Feedback is invaluable. With regular user testing, in-app surveys, and analytic evaluations, we gauge how features are received and used. This ongoing feedback informs any necessary adjustments or removals.
— Collaborative Review Sessions: Involving stakeholders, development teams, and even users in design reviews fosters a holistic understanding of feature relevance and potential implications, both technically and from a UX standpoint.