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Writer's pictureAfshan Naaz

Book Review

UX Fundamentals for Non-UX Professionals: User Experience

Principles for Managers, Writers, Designers, and Developers

by Edward Stull


Are you wondering how to master the fundamentals of UX with confidence? Get Edward Stull’s book, which provides real-world examples. Published by Apress in 2018, this 363-page book is a prized resource for acquiring the skills to participate intelligently in discussions about UX design and research.

The author, Edward Stull, is a skilled designer and researcher who specializes in assisting teams to overcome user experience (UX) challenges, ranging from product design to digital marketing. With over 20 years of experience, he has worked with various international brands, national banks, and state healthcare exchanges. Edward is deeply interested in how people perceive, use, and promote UX.

The book is divided into four parts and provides a structured outline of the chapters and the topics covered in each chapter. Readers can easily locate a particular chapter or the

subtopic included in the chapter. Part I introduces the fundamental concepts of UX, with clear and concise explanations of UX terms and research. It equips readers with the necessary skills to confidently design user-friendly projects. It briefs the readers about the significance of UX design and research.

Part II deals with ‘Being Human.’ Stull deals with human perception and attention, information retention, rationalization, equality, and narration. This is vital for readers to understand their audience better. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the audience’s needs before starting a project. In this part, he mentions that UX is a powerful persuasive rhetoric. This section on perception, rationalization, accessibility, and storytelling is essential for technical communicators who want to create content that truly connects with their intended audience.

The book explains the fundamentals of UX, followed by chapters on human behavior, persuasion, and process, culminating in a comprehensive understanding of UX and its relevance to our lives. Edward Stull argues that when UX is intentionally designed, it leads to better user experiences and greater productivity. Personally, I loved the second part about understanding the world in a human way! It provided me with a comprehensive and engaging insight into the process. It briefs the readers about the significance of UX design and research.

The author has used relatable real-world stories and analogies that make the crucial points easy to grasp. The book highlights the importance of prioritizing the user’s requirements, identifying potential clashes between business objectives and user choices, and comprehending how mental aspects such as perception and attention can significantly influence the achievement or lack of success of a product.

In this book, Stull asserts the pivotal role of user research and empathizing with users to make informed design decisions. He provides readers with pragmatic and practical techniques to conduct user interviews, create personas, and prototype solutions, empowering them with the confidence to apply UX principles in their respective domains and deliver exceptional user experiences.

This book is essential for mastering the fundamentals of UX. It empowers the reader with the skills required to actively engage in discussions about UX design and research while also providing a deep understanding of how UX affects all aspects of the business. With this book at your disposal, you will be well-equipped to make informed decisions and take charge of your UX journey.

The storytelling skill employed by Stull makes the content accessible and less intimidating. The use of real-world examples will surely bring a smile to your face. It is an excellent way to introduce anyone to the exciting world of UX. The clear, entertaining, and engaging writing style is devoid of technical jargon, thus making the book comprehensible to readers even without their expertise in UX.

What truly sets this book apart is that it is suitable for a diverse audience. Whether you are in business or marketing or a computer science student wanting to gain a deep understanding of UX, this book is a perfect guide. This book is essential for anyone interested in UX, particularly beginners. It covers a comprehensive introduction, diverse topics, and practical suggestions.

This book is a must-read for a person like me who has limited knowledge of UX design and research. It is an ideal resource for beginners as it covers fundamental UX concepts at a surface level. Get your copy today and get ready to improve your understanding of UX. With its engaging style and compelling content, this book is a game-changer.

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