Open feedback is essential for a collaborative UX process. However, sharing unfinished work is naturally uncomfortable and often generates tension. The right facilitation process can foster an efficient, honest feedback loop. [NN/g]
📢 Format
50 minutes, up to 2 topics.
The presenter shares context, presents the designs, and facilitates the conversation to obtain feedback on the solution.
The presenter is welcome to invite anyone beyond the design team who could contribute with their feedback.
The moderator moves the session forward, keeps track of time, and ensures all have been given an opportunity to contribute.
Send demos, design files, specs, and any relevant materials upfront so attendees can familiarize themselves with them, making it easier for everyone to navigate through the critique session.
Design critiques are for everyone – Product Design, Design System, Brand Design, Research, and Writing. Invite also product managers and engineers as needed.
Small groups of 6–7 people max – conversation is focused, it is easier to speak and share deeply, and inclusion is easier.
Time-boxing – we will intentionally time-box each section. We should be able to get through 1-2 topics in 50 minutes (roughly 25 minutes each).
Share both early sketches and high-fidelity prototypes – share work to get other people’s perspectives. It isn’t to get approval on decisions.
Experiment and iterate – feel comfortable experimenting and iterating constantly. Just as design is never done, you should treat design processes the same way.
Have fun – ****do anything you can to set the mood. Play music as people arrive, or start with a funny YouTube video.
Getting feedback is more important that the meeting itself – use #design-async-crit channel and ask for feedback there. Everyone on the team should be getting and giving feedback every week (if not multiple times throughout the week).
When presenting work
Be candid – encourage feedback from everyone, whatever their title or role in the company.
Be specific – be as detailed as possible about what’s working and what’s not.