Tick-tock tick-tock, and before I knew it, two hours have passed. That is the great and not so great thing about the video-sharing app Tiktok. The algorithm Tiktok uses curates a unique feed based on the users’ interactions. So, my “for you” page was quite literally a for me page, which consisted of videos about random movie facts, cosplays, and UX/UI design. Honestly, the algorithm is creepily impressive. It did not take long for me to realize I was addicted to watching these 15–60 second videos for hours at a time.

So, I challenged myself recently and deleted the app along with Facebook and Instagram. Within two weeks, I no longer go into the folder on my phone to look for Tiktok and my attention span has seemingly increased. I was so used to the unlimited flow of content that once I deleted the app-it was like I was detoxing from continual stimulation. It was discouraging to realize how much I relied on these apps to entertain me throughout my day.

Not too long ago, I watched the Social Dilemma, and the mock-documentary enlightened me on how similar social media is to gambling addiction. Every time I went on Facebook, Instagram, and/or Tick Tock- I was refreshing my page for new content and in return, my brain was receiving dopamine hits. It was like every time I refreshed my social feeds; I was pulling an imaginary lever-hoping the next post, article or video would capture my interest. I bring this up because ethical design is more important than ever before. To constitute a good product; “designers need to make things that satisfy people’s needs, in terms of function, in terms of being understandable and in terms of their ability to deliver emotional satisfaction…” (Norman, 2013). To constitute a great product, designers need to also incorporate ethical design principles.

This means we as designers need to consider the short and long-term impacts on the user. I am not trying to say these apps are all inherently bad because I do not believe that. These apps allow for social connections and during a pandemic-the ability to connect is incredibly important. They allow for creative individuals to express themselves and showcase their talents. Ultimately, these social apps allow for conveniences we have never had before and there is so much good in that. However, users and designers need to acknowledge and be aware of the negative impacts these products have as well. Privacy issues and breaches, a correlation in social media use and declination in mental health, the false spread of information. So, not only do we as designers have to create products that meet our users’ needs and emotional wants while also being ethically designed. I believe this is what separates good products from great ones.