What’s the peak-end rule? How to use it to improve UX

Creating a great user experience involves optimizing smaller rules and principles, such as the peak-end rule, which suggests that people judge experiences based on their most intense moments and their conclusions rather than the entirety. The application of this rule in product design can enhance user satisfaction by focusing on creating memorable peak experiences and positive endings. Examples from companies like Duolingo, ShareTheMeal, Reforge, and League of Legends illustrate how highlighting achievements and providing gratifying endings can lead to increased user engagement and satisfaction. Additionally, companies like Mailchimp and Zapier demonstrate how simple acknowledgments or animations at the end of an interaction can leave a lasting positive impression. The key to leveraging the peak-end rule effectively is to ensure that peaks are genuine and not overused, as excessive microinteractions may have the opposite effect.