ARTICLE SUMMARY: Let’s face it, design is tough. We’re not just fixing surface-level issues, we’re digging deep to uncover what’s really going on. The UX Iceberg helps us picture that depth, but Jon Daiello thinks the dandelion might be an even better way to think about how UX problems grow and how to deal with them.
Daiello’s preference for the dandelion metaphor stems from two insights. One, the stubbornness of a dandelion mirrors the deep-rooted nature of UX issues. Two, designers are problem-solvers by nature, our goal is not to sidestep these issues, but to tackle them head-on and eliminate them.
In his piece “Weeding in the UX Garden,” Jon Daiello draws a compelling analogy between UX design and garden maintenance, highlighting how addressing UX issues often mirrors the persistent, intentional act of weeding. His discussion focuses on
- From Gardening to Designing
- A Practical Example
- Strategic Gardening
Being a designer means navigating constraints. You won’t always have the freedom to uncover every root cause. Limited budgets, poor timing, or lack of authority can all get in the way. In those moments, the wisest move might be knowing which dandelions to leave alone.
Jon concludes his article with a thoughtful reminder: “The best designers I’ve worked with don’t try to win every argument. They aim to share a deeper understanding of the problem with their partners, articulately, consistently, and with empathy. They understand the soil, recognize the weeds, and continue to tend the garden.” It’s a call for humility, empathy, and steady, collaborative effort in design work.
This article is a good read for all designers. let us know what you think in the comments.
