Beyond the Template Trap: Why Authentic Case Studies Matter More Than Ever

The other day, while chatting with my friend Fedi, he brought up a topic that struck a chord. Fedi highlighted a growing issue among novice UX designers. He observed that many of them are treating their case studies like mere checklists to tick off. Even worse, some are embellishing or downright fabricating information, stripping their case studies of any authenticity. This trend seems to be largely influenced by the indiscriminate use of case study templates available online. This conversation with Fedi inspired me to delve deeper into the subject and share my insights. And, let’s face it, if you’ve seen one of these templated case studies, you’ve seen them all. It’s almost like they all worked on the same damn project. Talk about originality!

With the democratization of UX design, an increasing number of designers are turning to templates to craft their case studies. While this approach may seem convenient, it raises significant concerns about the authenticity and real value of portfolios.

 

Why is copying templates problematic?

  • Loss of authenticity and individuality: A template, by its very nature, is designed for general use, meant to fit a broad range of scenarios and situations. Thus, it tends to be generic. When a designer simply copies such a template, they inadvertently diminish the uniqueness of their work. Instead of showcasing their personal flair, creativity, and specific problem-solving techniques, their case study becomes just another drop in the ocean, indistinguishable from countless others. Authenticity is a valuable asset, and by adhering strictly to a template, a designer might inadvertently strip their work of its originality and significance.
  • Challenges for recruiters: When hiring UX designers, recruiters and employers are not just looking at the final product. They’re interested in the journey – the thought processes, the challenges faced, the mistakes made and lessons learned. This narrative is vital because it provides insight into how a designer thinks, how they approach problems, and how they adapt and evolve. A template, unfortunately, often glosses over these nuances. If every designer uses the same template, recruiters are left sifting through portfolios that all look and sound the same, making it incredibly challenging to identify standout candidates.
  • Every project is unique: Each design project comes with its own set of challenges, stakeholders, user personas, and goals. By applying a one-size-fits-all template to diverse projects, designers risk missing or oversimplifying vital aspects of the project. It’s akin to trying to fit a square peg into a round hole; something will inevitably be left out or not given the attention it deserves. A bespoke approach, tailored to each project, ensures that all facets of the design process are explored and presented adequately.

The Benefits of an Authentic Case Study

  • Ability to Solve Problems: At the core of UX design is problem-solving. An authentic case study allows you to showcase not just the final product, but the journey you took to get there. It lets potential employers or clients see your analytical skills in action, from identifying the initial problem, to brainstorming possible solutions, to making decisions based on research and feedback. This kind of detailed narrative is a powerful testament to your abilities. Moreover, it shows that you understand the intrinsic value of the process, emphasizing that design isn’t just about creating something aesthetically pleasing, but about fulfilling specific needs and resolving tangible issues. When you highlight how you’ve tackled challenges, it becomes evident that you’re not just a designer but a strategic thinker who brings tangible value to projects.
  • Stand Out: Let’s face it; the design world is brimming with talent. So, how do you distinguish yourself from a sea of capable designers? The answer lies in authenticity. When your case study is genuine, tailored, and heartfelt, it resonates differently. It speaks of your unique experiences, learnings, and approach, setting you apart from those who merely follow a generic formula. Your individual voice, your specific style, and the unique twists and turns of your design journey become your signature. This originality makes your portfolio memorable, ensuring that it stays on the minds of recruiters or potential clients long after they’ve finished browsing.
  • Professional Growth: An authentic case study isn’t just beneficial for those viewing it; it’s also immensely valuable for the designer. Taking the time to genuinely reflect on your projects, from the successes to the failures, fosters personal and professional growth. You become more self-aware, recognizing areas that need improvement and identifying strengths you can further hone. By not relying on a template, you challenge yourself to think critically about your work, leading to more profound insights and, subsequently, better designs in the future. Furthermore, this reflective practice can be a source of motivation. By documenting your progress and milestones, you create a tangible record of your evolution as a designer, encouraging you to continuously push your boundaries and strive for excellence.

 

Tips for Drafting an Authentic Case Study

  • Begin with the Core Problem: Every design project starts with a problem or a need. Kick off your case study by clearly defining this challenge. Was there a gap in the market? Was there a user pain point that needed addressing? Setting the stage with this problem not only grabs the reader’s attention but also provides context for the journey you’re about to describe.
  • Detail Your Research Process: Authenticity shines through when you showcase the groundwork. Detail the methods you used, be it user interviews, surveys, competitor analysis, or heuristic evaluations. Describe how these insights shaped your design choices. Did a particular piece of user feedback lead to a significant design pivot? Sharing these details makes your process transparent and relatable.
  • Showcase Iterative Design: Real-world design is rarely about getting things perfect the first time. Highlight how you refined your designs based on feedback, testing, and personal insights. Include early sketches, wireframes, mock-ups, and prototypes. Discuss the evolution of your design, explaining why certain ideas were discarded and others were pursued.
  • Include Real Results: While it’s great to talk about your process, concrete results anchor your case study in reality. Did user engagement increase after your redesign? Were there notable upticks in specific metrics? Whenever possible, include real numbers, as they offer tangible proof of the impact of your work.
  • Reflect on Lessons Learned: Authenticity is about embracing both successes and failures. End your case study by reflecting on what went well and what didn’t. Discuss lessons learned and how they’ve influenced your approach to subsequent projects. This not only shows humility and self-awareness but also demonstrates your commitment to continual learning and growth.
  • Use Authentic Imagery: Avoid stock images. Instead, use real screenshots, sketches, and photos from brainstorming sessions or user testing. These genuine visuals can give readers a behind-the-scenes look at your process, further emphasizing the authenticity of your case study.
  • Get Peer Reviews: Before finalizing, share your draft with peers or mentors. They can provide valuable feedback, point out any oversights, and ensure that your narrative is clear and authentic.

 

Conclusion

In the intricate world of UX design, authenticity isn’t just a buzzword β€” it’s the bedrock of meaningful work. It’s not merely about differentiating oneself in a saturated market; it’s about integrity, dedication, and true craftsmanship. Before succumbing to the allure of one-size-fits-all templates, pause and ponder: Does this mirror my unique journey, struggles, and achievements as a designer?