Software that’s interested in its users asks for information to improve the experience. It does so in a way that’s not cumbersome or overly intrusive. It doesn’t simply add superficial “How are you?” copy that doesn’t accomplish anything.

Software that shows interest in its users adapts to the user. It also makes doing repetitive tasks a breeze. This makes the users happier and more likely to use the software.

While designing software we should consider how different personas could preform the task at hand differently. We should try to understand whether there is additional information we can gather about the user in order to simplify it.

For instance, when withdrawing a non-standard amount of cash at an ATM, some ATMs ask whether we’d like to add that amount to the quick withdraw selection.

Having software that’s interested in its users is also important when designing software that’s deferential. When asking to confim a decision, we can ask the user whether they’d be like to save that as the default choice.

Examples of software being interested in its users

A simple example of software showing interest is asking the user what type of notifications they prefer.

Supplybunny for example is interested in my day and when I prefer to receive deliveries.