Back to Product Decisions
UX Strategy

Simplify Multi-Role Permissions to Reduce Cognitive Load

Initial role-permission model introduced confusion across coaches and caregivers.

THE DECISION

Redesigned permission flows and visibility logic to reduce ambiguity and edge-case errors.

Reasoning

User research showed permission confusion was causing drop-off

Complex permissions created support burden and user frustration

Simpler model would improve onboarding and daily usage

Clarity trumps flexibility for non-technical user base

Trade-offs

What I Gained

Improved usability

Reduced onboarding confusion

Lower support burden

What I Lost

Granular permission control

Power user flexibility

Some edge case handling

Outcome

Improved usability and reduced confusion during onboarding and task assignment. Support tickets related to permissions dropped significantly.

Lessons Learned

For multi-persona products, clarity beats flexibility. Users don't want to think about permissions—they want to do their job.