Daily UX Writing Challenge, day 13: Truck delivery notification
Hi’ya! I’m Temini, an Operations wiz looking to transition into UX Writing. I’ve always loved writing, and I absolutely love setting up processes and helping people — guess what field allows me to do that and more?
In light of this, I decided to take part in the Daily UX Writing challenge and I feel quite emotional that it’s fast coming to an end. I’ll save the sappiness for the last day of the challenge, for now — let’s look at day 13!
Scenario: A short-haul truck driver has a phone app that monitors his route, schedule, fuel & deliveries. He has 6 more deliveries before stopping for fuel and lunch. Due to unexpected traffic, he’s behind schedule. He can choose to stay on his planned route for a few more stops, but risk running low on fuel and missing lunch, or he can get fuel and lunch now and finish the deliveries later.
Challenge: Write a push notification alerting him of this dilemma and options.
Headline: 30 characters max
Body: 45 characters max
Button(s): 25 characters max
In today’s challenge, I encountered a scenario where a short-haul truck driver relies on a mobile app to monitor his route, schedule, fuel, and deliveries. Facing unexpected traffic, the driver is behind schedule and must decide whether to continue with deliveries or take a break for fuel and lunch. You see, this is interesting and a real challenge because there’s so much I need to share, but with very limited characters. Let’s jump into the challenge and possible solutions.
The Problem:
The challenge was to convey a critical situation without causing panic.
Possible Solutions:
1. Direct Communication: Use a concise headline to state the situation.
2. Encouragement for Break: Provide an option that suggests taking a break, emphasizing the importance of driver well-being.
From what I’ve learned so far in UX writing, the wrong word or tone can completely set your user off. While addressing this situation, I don’t want my driver to:
- Check his fuel level and panic
- Feel bad about the incomplete deliveries
- Deprive themself of rest so as to beat the overdue deliveries
- Endager themself by forging ahead despite the fuel situation and gridlock
It’s also important I consider the receivers of the deliveries, but I’m going to assume that the courier service might have given a time range and space for delays or default. I’m also going to assume that the receivers have tracking numbers, and can be at ease that their deliveries are on the go regardless.
Let’s see how I did!
Thought Process
In addressing this challenge, I focused on the dual objectives of providing clear information without inducing panic. The limited character count necessitated a concise yet effective message. The headline sets the tone for urgency, alerting the driver to a significant obstacle. The body communicates the essential details — remaining deliveries and a gentle reminder to check fuel levels. The buttons present clear options, encouraging a quick decision. I use “Take a break” instead of “Stop Delivery” to positively remind the driver that it’s okay to pause and relax. Using stop delivery might have laid a negative tone, and could make the driver feel like they are going off course.
Voice & Tone:
Voice (Informative):
The primary focus is on delivering crucial information to the driver.
Tone (Urgent & Pressing):
Given the potential danger of low fuel in heavy traffic, urgency is maintained. However, the tone remains respectful and empathetic, acknowledging the challenges the driver faces.
Outcome:
The resulting push notification effectively balances urgency and clarity, providing the driver with essential information while encouraging a decision that prioritizes safety and well-being. This approach ensures the message is received efficiently without causing unnecessary stress.
So, what do you think? I’m happy and quite open to suggestions and feedback. Btw, on LinkedIn, I share my challenge in a fun and visual way. I also share trivia and jokes at the end of each challenge, if you want to check that out, connect with me — I’m sort of cool, I promise ;)
