02/07/2020
Microcopy! What is it, and why does it matter? That’s what I covered in this talk for Google Developer Day in Cancún last November, and it was so fun getting to share.
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Here are 3 common questions and answers about microcopy.
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1️⃣ First, what IS microcopy? = The small words within a product interface that make it usable. Things like buttons, labels, form fields, tool tips, and more. (The example I’m showing in the photo is from PayPal, where clear microcopy helps you create a password).
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2️⃣ Why does it matter? = Words make interfaces usable. People often think of words as “filler.” In fact, even the word “content” implies a container — but words are so much more than just filler. Without words, interfaces would be unusable. (And often times, usability or accessibility issues are actually microcopy issues).
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3️⃣ But why should businesses care? = Because bad microcopy creates bored or frustrated users who create excess support tickets, leave bad reviews, and ultimately don’t come back. That’s bad for your bottom line.
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What questions do you have about microcopy? Let me know! 👇
