# ACME's Harsh Design Critique Mistakes and lessons from UX research - **Source:** [UX Collective - Medium](https://brifing.si/source/5c6bdc88-e150-4203-af43-069801e37dd9) - **Published:** 2026-08-20 - **Topic:** [Design & UX](https://brifing.si/c/design) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/24ac8c5f-6914-4ccb-8b24-1f2b9de0c5c8 ## ACME's Design Process ACME's design team was working on a new user interface. Before user testing, they organized an internal design critique session. During this session, the design's usability and accessibility shortcomings were discussed. Serious criticisms were raised, particularly regarding color contrast and navigation structure. ## The Intensity of the Critique The design critique session was harsher than expected. Team members felt the design ignored basic UX principles. Feedback was product-focused rather than personal. However, the directness of the criticisms challenged some designers. This created tension within the team. ## User Test Results User tests conducted after the critique confirmed the design's issues. Participants reported difficulties navigating the interface. They especially struggled accessing core functions. The test results validated the criticisms. ## Team Dynamics Harsh critiques changed communication dynamics within the team. Some designers became hesitant about receiving feedback. Others believed criticisms improved product quality. This process revealed different perspectives within the team. ## The Correction Process Significant design changes were made based on critiques. The color palette was revised and navigation simplified. Issues from user tests were systematically addressed. This process made the design more user-friendly. ## Lessons Learned This experience provided valuable lessons. Feedback improved product quality, but constructive delivery mattered too. The team decided to plan more balanced feedback processes for future projects. ## UX Improvement Changes led to noticeable UX improvements. The new interface received more positive evaluations from test users. Participants reported faster access to functions. These results proved the critique's value. ## Conclusion and Impact ACME's experience highlighted feedback's importance in design. Harsh critiques can improve quality, but team dynamics matter too. These lessons will enable more effective process management in future projects. ## Sources covering this story - https://uxdesign.cc/it-really-wasnt-your-fault-coyote-e82dbecc43bd?source=rss----138adf9c44c---4 — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._