Universal Principles of UX

55

Map the ecosystem.

Digital products can exist by themselves, but they are usually part of a larger ecosystem. In the case of my students’ backpacker app (see Principle 54), we imagine that the client’s ecosystem also contains physical guidebooks and maps, a website, various social media channels, an app of common Thai phrases, and an itinerary-planning app.

It’s important to start by analyzing all of the company’s current products and the connections between them. That way we can get insights on how to leverage new and existing assets, understand whether or not there is a cohesive strategy across products, and identify what part of the ecosystem will be affected once the new product is added.

People turn to a variety of different products ...