Design Glossary

A/B Testing is a method of comparing two versions of a design or feature by showing each to different users and measuring which performs better based on specific metrics.

A research method where users organize information into groups and name the categories, revealing how they naturally think about your product or content structure.

A systematic examination of competitors' products, strategies, and market positioning to inform your own product decisions and identify market opportunities.

A structured feedback session where designers present work to peers or stakeholders, receive constructive criticism, and iterate based on input before finalizing designs.

Design handoff is the process of transferring design files, specifications, and documentation from designers to developers so they can build the product accurately.

A time-boxed, structured problem-solving method where cross-functional teams work intensively over 3-5 days to prototype and test solutions for a specific challenge.

The initial research and planning phase where teams gather information about users, competitors, and market context before designing or building a product.

A structured review process where UX experts evaluate a product's interface against established usability principles to identify design problems without user testing.

A framework for understanding customer needs by identifying the specific tasks customers are trying to accomplish, rather than focusing on demographics or product features.

A visual diagram that maps out every step a user takes when interacting with your product or service, from initial awareness through to completion and beyond.

A working model or early version of a product used to test ideas, validate concepts, and gather feedback before full development. Prototypes range from simple sketches to functional interactive models.

Usability testing involves observing real users interacting with your product to identify friction points, confusion, and opportunities for improvement before launch.

A research method where designers and product teams talk directly with real users to understand their needs, behaviors, and pain points. These conversations reveal what users actually want—not what you assume they want.

The systematic process of understanding your users' needs, behaviors, and pain points through interviews, observations, and testing. It informs every design decision.

A low-fidelity visual blueprint that maps out page structure, content placement, and user flow before design or development begins. Wireframes focus on functionality and layout, not aesthetics.