As a daily reviewer of web3 and crypto startups, I feel privileged to observe firsthand how the exciting world of blockchain and decentralized technologies is transforming industries. But there's a thorn in the side of these groundbreaking innovations: UI and UX.
Actually, I was thinking of this for quite some time already, but this meme in the LinkedIn post and the viral reaction it provoked proved that the problem is actual for a lot of players in this industry and triggered me to move on with this writing:
Indeed: poor design and user experience create a significant barrier to mass adoption, and it's time we address this issue with a lighthearted yet insightful look at what's going wrong and how to fix it.
Let's take a cue from some industry examples to "add color" and breathe life into our discussion.
A Maze of Confusion: The Crypto Newbie's Nightmare.
Let's face it: for someone new to the crypto space, diving into web3 projects can feel like navigating a maze with no map. There's so much jargon and technicality that even the most enthusiastic newcomer can quickly become discouraged.
I've seen countless promising projects lose potential users simply because their platforms aren't user-friendly or accessible.
Take MetaMask as an example: it’s a popular web3 wallet, but its user interface is anything but beginner-friendly. I remember: when I tried to install and use it for the first time, it took me 4 hours (four hours, bro!!!) before I could understand how to make my first transaction.
With its browser extension format, new users may struggle to understand how to interact with dApps or manage their funds. The lack of a comprehensive tutorial or step-by-step guidance for first-time users further exacerbates the issue.
To bring more people into the fold, we need to design web3 projects with a focus on simplicity and ease of use.
The UX/UI Paradox: Overcomplicating the Simple
Ironically, some web3 projects take the "decentralized" aspect to an extreme, creating an overly complicated user experience.
For example, PancakeSwap, one of the popular decentralized exchanges, may offer a powerful platform for swapping tokens, but its interface can be intimidating for newcomers in crypto.
The platform's design, poor onboarding, and lack of detailed explanations can leave users feeling uncertain about how to conduct transactions or assess potential risks.
While we want to embrace the freedom and flexibility that web3 offers, we also need to provide users with a cohesive and intuitive experience. The key is finding the right balance between customization and user-friendliness.
Getting Over the Learning Curve
Every new technology has a learning curve, but web3 projects often fail to provide adequate resources for users to climb that curve. A lack of clear instructions, tutorials, and onboarding materials leaves users in the dark, leading to frustration and, ultimately, disengagement.
Do you remember CryptoKitties, the famous blockchain-based game? It experienced a surge in popularity, but it also faced criticism for its lack of clear instructions and tutorials for new players.
The game's mechanics, such as breeding and trading unique digital cats, were not immediately intuitive, leading to confusion among users.
For example, the process of acquiring and breeding cats, as well as understanding the significance of their various attributes, was not explained thoroughly in the game's interface.
Users also faced difficulties navigating the marketplace to buy, sell, or trade their digital cats.
Moreover, CryptoKitties' reliance on Ethereum's blockchain meant that users had to familiarize themselves with concepts like gas fees and transactions, which further steepened the learning curve.
These barriers prevented many potential players from fully engaging with the game and limited its reach to a more tech-savvy audience.
Let's create web3 platforms that educate users while they interact, making learning a natural part of the experience.
The Jargon Jungle: Let's Cut the Technobabble!
Honestly, I can't be the only one who's had enough of the crypto world's obsession with jargon. It feels like we're tangled in a web of buzzwords and acronyms that are as confusing as they are alienating.
Decentralized Finance (DeFi) is a prime example, with terms like "gas fees," "staking," and "yield farming" leaving novices feeling completely lost.
Think about it: when we use the internet or web2 apps, we don't need to know the ins and outs of the technology behind them. We just want them to work and provide value. That's how web3 products should position themselves for mass adoption.
Mass users don't need a deep understanding of HOW it works; they want to know what value the product will provide them.
Look at this screenshot 👆 which is actually the main onboarding page of DeFi Swap, a decentralized exchange with a range of crypto services. Their kinda “key value prop” is the ability to swap tokens without needing to go through a centralized exchange.
But look at their interface and now try to put yourself in the shoes of the person who has his/her first touch with DeFi: “WTF ca I do here?!”
And DeFi Swap is not a rare one. Look at Katana, the DeFi platform on Solana that was made a year ago 👇 How do you like this informative home page?
Believe me: it’s easier to find a generous, long-term committed crypto VC investor, than to find a DeFi platform that is user-friendly for crypto newbies!
So, let's ditch the technobabble and focus on clear, human language that invites and educates users. By creating web3 platforms that communicate their value without overwhelming people with unnecessary jargon, we can open the door to a more diverse and engaged user base.
The Art of User-Centric Design
Designing a great UX/UI in web3 projects requires empathy and a user-centric approach.
Coinbase, one of the most popular cryptocurrency exchanges, has built a reputation for its clean, intuitive interface, making it easy for users to navigate and manage their digital assets.
Unlike other exchanges that may overwhelm users with too much information, Coinbase has opted for a clutter-free layout that highlights only essential data.
The platform employs a simple navigation menu, guiding users through various features such as buying, selling, and tracking their portfolios with ease.
Additionally, Coinbase offers a user-friendly mobile app that caters to users on the go, ensuring a seamless experience across devices.
It also provides educational resources for beginners, such as the "Coinbase Earn" program, which teaches users about different cryptocurrencies while rewarding them for their learning.
Moreover, Coinbase has made security a priority by incorporating multi-factor authentication, clear communication about potential risks, and a comprehensive support system.
By focusing on usability, aesthetics, and emotional connection, we can create platforms that are not only functional but also enjoyable to use.
Conclusion:
To sum it all up, the journey to widespread web3 adoption starts with putting users first and crafting experiences that feel familiar, approachable, and even delightful. Let's face it, we're all in this together, and we need to create a more welcoming environment for newcomers.
As someone who's been immersed in this space, I know we can do better. Let's ditch the techno-jargon and embrace simplicity, making web3 platforms more human and user-friendly. After all, the true power of web3 lies in its ability to empower everyone, not just the tech-savvy few.
Remember my own struggle with MetaMask? That's something we need to leave behind. Let's build platforms that guide users through the exciting world of blockchain and decentralized technologies with ease, like a trusted friend showing us the ropes.
By learning from web2 best practices and putting our users at the heart of our design choices, we can transform web3 into a space where everyone feels at home.
So, let's roll up our sleeves and work together to create a more inclusive, user-centric, and ultimately successful decentralized future. It's time to bring web3 to the masses – and we're the ones who can make it happen.