When it comes to the visually impaired or the deaf community there is a great need for tech that is easy to use and understand.
Using simple language for voice design
What makes some interfaces easy and understandable is not only through the use of visuals, but by using simple language. Voice recognition software is often known to receive simple voice actions and the same applies to voice commands.
I was looking into what use of language is the most effective in order to design for voice commands and voice responses.
Do use
short sentences
short paragraphs
common phrases
active voice
an informal/inter-personal tone
Do not use
big words
a passive voice
- too much formality
Depending on the product or service that you are working on, you have to identity what the tone of the product will be.
“Brand voice is the purposeful, consistent expression of a brand through words and prose styles that engage and motivate. It’s true: The personality of your brand is determined, in large measure, by the words you use and the sentences you write.”
- larsen.com
When I worked on the prototype for my smart glasses project, it was clear that I needed to stick to Google assistance approach to conversation design. Google used very simple language and friendly tone for their google assistant, which I tried to transfer over into my prototype.
Using plain language can really help the user to learn the product/service quicker because they are familiar with the language on the application. This can also avoid user issues along the way and even possibly speed up user task flow.
References:
N. A. "DEV 4.1 - Use clear and simple language" National Disabilities Authority:
Kaja. L. (2018) "Creating your product’s tone and voice" UX Collective:
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