It’s too late, really way too late for me to be writing this post. I should be in bed sleeping, dreams of crushing alien hordes, racing Luigi or better yet, a world of Rabbid Rabbits dancing to the rhythm. Oddly, I am shocked to find a lack of an OBVIOUS user interface feature on XBOX Live, makes me wonder if Microsoft really wants to properly monetize the platform?..

To the core of it, I just downloaded a preview for a feature film offered on XBOX Live. For those not indoctrinated, XBOX Live is the premier gaming console media platform, says me, in the interactive space; although, Nintendo is quickly closing the gap. They offer downloads of movies (hi-def optional), TV shows, games and more.

Anywho, I downloaded a preview reel that sold me on a flick. Immediately after the preview reel ends, XBOX dumps you at the launch screen of the clip. Now, the obvious smart marketing move would be to have a “watch now” prompt or button on screen refresh. Unfortunately, they did not make my impulsive behavior so easy. I ended up switching back to Cable.

WASTED MONEY, XBOX! This is an obvious UI feature needed. I admit that this is a small bone to pick, but I think it highlights an issue. It’s almost like content seeding, “you enjoy this clip, try these”. It’s not a requirement, but it seems to be a logical progression in the thought process of a consumer. You create an Ecom, a gaming console platform, an online video site or anything else. Always consider the users natural state and behavioral habit. In the case of this moment, I wanted to press play. I hadn’t a thought of “purchase” or any other thing that would otherwise deter me. Simply put, I would have spent the money at that exact moment, but the UI guy didn’t think of it.

How many situations have we all been in where a split second, or step, interrupts our natural behavioral arch, the impulse arch? Tonight was a clear one for me. I’m out the instant gratitude, and XBOX is out the cash… Thanks for helping me check my impulse; I will spend my money on Coffee in the AM.

Lesson:

1. What’s your goal? Always be clear, define it properly.

2. Always drive actions to your goal.