No. #43

Pareidolia
- Finding Patterns Where None Exist

Pareidolia is the tendency to perceive a specific, often meaningful image in a random or ambiguous visual pattern. In product design, this can influence user interface decisions, where users might perceive unintended images or messages.

Read more on Wikipedia

Product example

Users might see faces or shapes in product designs or logos that were not intended, affecting their perception of the brand.

Empathy tips

1

Design Review for Ambiguity

Conduct thorough design reviews to identify potential pareidolia effects.

2

User Feedback on Design

Collect user feedback specifically regarding perceived images or patterns in designs.

3

Iterative Design Process

Iteratively refine designs based on feedback to minimize unintended interpretations.

4

Awareness Training

Train designers to be aware of and actively look for potential pareidolia in their work.

Need an empathic partner?

Anna Lundqvist portrait
Anna Lundqvist
UX & AI ethics expert driving better products and smarter teams.
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Eddy Salzmann
Design lead crafting seamless products and mentoring design teams.
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Ola Möller
Facilitator helping organisations see the big picture and take action.