Default options are designed to provide pre-established choices during the initial interaction with a product or service, creating a straightforward initial configuration that simplifies user decision-making. This is a widely used resource in forms, but one which also improves usability in complex interfaces and processes. Examples include facilitating language and time zone selection on a new smartphone, offering a default toolbar when launching software or enabling auto-configuration for appliances such as microwaves, car radios or washing machines.
Default options serve multiple purposes. On one hand, they provide a representative example of what information a particular field must contain or how a functionality is used, thus offering guidance on how to complete that task. On the other hand, they allow you to select the most common or frequently used option, thus reducing cognitive load on the user, in addition to time spent navigating and deciding among various alternatives.
Meanwhile, default options can also steer the user in a particular direction, leading them to view the initial choice as the most recommended or favourable, especially when engaging with trusted brands and products. This makes them a powerful tool, albeit one that should be used with certain considerations and best practices in mind.
1. Research users and customise
The most useful options for one user may be irrelevant to another individual. Understanding the general needs of your audience, along with the differences that exist within it, enables the customisation of default options to suit different circumstances.
For instance, in the case of health insurance, individuals with children may favour coverage that includes other family members. Similarly, a fitness app might recommend an intense exercise routine for younger users, while offering a gentler option for older individuals. Additionally, a travel booking platform could recommend a business class seat for those travelling for work, while preselecting a car rental option for leisure travellers.
2. Enable default options to be changed
Pre-established values in the interface can serve as a user aid; however, they should not be regarded as the sole option or a requirement. Individuals must retain their decision-making freedom and control over the product or service, making it essential to encourage the exploration of various options and ensure their easy accessibility.
By altering default options, it is also possible to discover other functionalities and harness the system’s full potential. The use of advanced tools, which might otherwise have gone unnoticed, is proposed to enhance the product’s value and promote more effective utilisation. For instance, a user may discover the Gantt chart view in Asana or the variants feature in Figma.
Source: PCMag
3. Enable restoration of the initial configuration
The fear of losing default options or user-preferred settings may hinder the exploration of various options. Therefore, incorporating the ability to easily restore default options provides security and invites users to experiment with the interface.
It is essential that the option to restore the initial configuration is accompanied by a warning or double confirmation message, as this action will remove all changes made by the individual. For instance, these changes may range from minor adjustments to the appearance of a toolbar to significant edits that could involve several hours of work on an image or video.
4. Prevent destructive or dangerous actions
Just as restoring the default settings can erase the user’s work, there are other actions that may adversely impact their experience with the product or service. These include processes that should be omitted from the default options, such as those that lead to data loss or security issues, result in irreversible changes or increase the likelihood of accidental errors by the user.
Examples include the option to bypass a password for accessing the home Wi-Fi network, the checkbox for permanently deleting files, the option to enable all notifications from an app or the ability to allow all users to edit a shared document, among others.
5. Reject dark patterns
Dark patterns refer to unethical practices that manipulate user behaviour through deceptive tactics, leading individuals to make decisions they did not intend to make or that may be detrimental to them. While these strategies may yield short-term gains for businesses, their long-term consequences include a decline in brand trust, significant reputational damage and a gradual loss of customers.
An interface that defaults to subscribing to a paid service, purchasing an unsolicited product or consenting to the commercial use of personal data are some examples of dark patterns that exploit default options, thus highlighting the need for their avoidance.
Source: Instruct-ERIC
Do you want to improve the default options of your product or service? Alternatively, would you like to integrate them into your interface to make it more efficient and user-friendly? Whatever your starting point, GammaUX offers a team of usability and user experience specialists who will provide you with customised advice. Contact us for a no-obligation discussion!
