How to Build Habit-Forming Products from Udemy

How do companies create products people use every day? What are the secrets of building services customers love? How can designers create products compelling enough to "hook" users?

Nir is a two-time Silicon Valley entrepreneur who has taught the "Using Neuroscience to Influence Human Behavior" course as a Lecturer at the Stanford Graduate School of Business. His writing has appeared on TechCrunch, Forbes, Psychology Today and his blog, NirAndFar.

" The framework gives entrepreneurs and product designers a new way for thinking of the necessary components of influencing user behavior. Nir will share the tactics companies like Facebook, Pinterest, and Twitter use to drive repeat engagement.

This workshop will provide attendees with a powerful toolkit and framework for creating better products and likely change the way they see the world.

What's inside

Learning objectives

Participants will learn the common design patterns of habit-forming products.
Understand the stages of habit formation and how to optimize for user retention.

In-depth look at the psychology behind what drives user behavior and how to build products to cater to core human needs.
Practical steps for leading a design process to ensure your product is used regularly.

Participants will learn the common design patterns of habit-forming products.
Understand the stages of habit formation and how to optimize for user retention.
In-depth look at the psychology behind what drives user behavior and how to build products to cater to core human needs.
Practical steps for leading a design process to ensure your product is used regularly.

Syllabus

Introducing Habits

In this lecture, we take an introductory look at habit-forming technology. What are habits? What are addictions? What are the commonalities and differences between the two and how can habits be used to help people?

Recommended reading:

Introduction of "Hooked: How to Build Habit-Forming Products", see: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00HJ4A43S

In this lecture, we explore why habits are good for business and answer the question, "What does it take to form a habit?"

Recommended reading:

Chapter 1 of "Hooked: How to Build Habit-Forming Products", see: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00HJ4A43S

Trigger

In this lecture, we explore what prompts users to action. You will learn the importance of placing effective external triggers and creating associations with internal triggers.

Recommended reading:

Chapter 2 of "Hooked: How to Build Habit-Forming Products", see: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00HJ4A43S

Action

In this lecture, we explore the Action Phase of the Hook Model. How do users take habitual actions and how can designers make these behaviors more likely to occur?

Recommended reading:

Chapter 3 of "Hooked: How to Build Habit-Forming Products", see: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00HJ4A43S

Variable Reward

In this lecture, we explore the Variable Rewards Phase of the Hook Model. Why do we love an element of mystery in the habit-forming products we use? How can variability be used to keep users coming back for more?

Recommended reading:

Chapter 4 of "Hooked: How to Build Habit-Forming Products", see: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00HJ4A43S

Investment

In this lecture, we explore the Investment Phase of the Hook Model. How do small bits of effort increase the likelihood of users returning?

Recommended reading:

Chapter 5 of "Hooked: How to Build Habit-Forming Products", see: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00HJ4A43S

Final thoughts

In this lecture, I discuss the morality of building habit-forming technology and offer some final thoughts.

Recommended reading:

Chapters 6, 7, and 8 of "Hooked: How to Build Habit-Forming Products", see: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00HJ4A43S

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Taught by Nir Eyal, a recognized expert on building habit-forming technology

Develops skills and tools for UX designers to create more compelling products

Explores the intersection of technology and habit formation, which is highly relevant in industry

Examines the psychology behind user behavior, which is useful for personal growth

Strong focus on the practical application of habit-forming principles in product design

May not be suitable for beginners in the field of UX design

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in How to Build Habit-Forming Products with these activities:

Probability and Statistics Refresher

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Strengthening foundational skills enhances understanding of course concepts.

Browse courses on Probability

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Review probability and statistics concepts through online resources or textbooks.
Solve practice problems to improve comprehension and fluency.
Apply statistical principles to analyze habit-forming data.

Student Mentorship

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Teaching others reinforces understanding and provides a different perspective.

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Identify students who are struggling with course concepts or assignments.
Offer support and guidance through peer tutoring or online forums.
Explain and discuss course material in a clear and concise manner.

Online Resources

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Complementary online resources provide additional insights and clarify course concepts.

Browse courses on Habit Formation

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Explore videos by academic researchers and industry thought leaders on topics like habit formation and user behavior.
Access free online courses on platforms like Coursera and edX for practical insights.
Review resources recommended by Nir Eyal's blog and other reputable sources.

Five other activities

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Show all eight activities

Behavior Change Scenarios

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Repeated practice improves understanding and application of habit-forming concepts.

Browse courses on Behavioral Change

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Analyze case studies or hypothetical scenarios on behavior change.
Identify the key drivers and obstacles to forming habits.
Propose solutions and interventions based on the course principles.

Course Toolkit

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Collecting course-related materials helps organize and enhance understanding.

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Create a central repository for assignments, notes, articles, and relevant resources.
Organize materials by topic or sequence to facilitate easy access.
Add summaries or annotations to key materials for quick reference.
Periodically review and update the compilation to ensure its relevance.

Hooked by Nir Eyal

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Expand understanding of habit formation with a comprehensive analysis.

View Hooked: How to Build Habit-Forming Products on Amazon

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Read through the book, highlighting key concepts and theories.
Summarize and discuss the book's main arguments, providing examples from personal experiences.
Relate the book's principles to product design and marketing strategies.

Habit-Forming App Prototype

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Applying course principles to a practical project reinforces learning.

Browse courses on Product Design

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Identify a specific target behavior you want to encourage through a mobile application.
Research and design the app's interface and functionality based on habit-forming principles.
Create a prototype using tools like Figma or Adobe XD.
Seek feedback from potential users to refine the app's design and functionality.

Design Hackathon

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Applying course concepts under pressure promotes critical thinking and creativity.

Browse courses on Product Design

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Participate in a hackathon or design competition focused on building habit-forming products.
Collaborate with other participants to generate innovative ideas and solutions.
Present the resulting design and explain the underlying principles and strategies.

Career center

Learners who complete How to Build Habit-Forming Products will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Growth Hacker

A Growth Hacker is responsible for growing a product's user base. They use a variety of marketing and product development techniques to attract and retain users. Nir's course on building habit-forming products would be a goldmine for a Growth Hacker. The course will provide valuable insights into how to create products that are so compelling that users will keep coming back for more.

See salaries and explore the career path for Growth Hacker

Product Designer

A Product Designer designs and develops various digital products. They take a user-centered approach to ensure that products are both functional and appealing. Nir's course on building habit-forming products would be a key resource for a Product Designer. The course will provide valuable insights into how to create products that are not only useful but also compelling enough to "hook" users.

See salaries and explore the career path for Product Designer

UX Designer

A UX Designer is responsible for the user experience of a product. They work to ensure that products are easy to use and enjoyable. Nir's course on building habit-forming products would be a great asset for a UX Designer. The course will provide valuable insights into how to create products that are both user-friendly and addictive.

See salaries and explore the career path for UX Designer

Marketing Manager

A Marketing Manager is responsible for developing and executing marketing campaigns. They work to increase brand awareness and generate leads. Nir's course on building habit-forming products would be a valuable asset for a Marketing Manager. The course will provide valuable insights into how to create marketing campaigns that are so compelling that they will drive users to take action.

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Product Manager

A Product Manager is responsible for the overall success of a product. They work to define the product vision, roadmap, and marketing strategy. Nir's course on building habit-forming products would be a great asset for a Product Manager. The course will provide valuable insights into how to create products that are both successful and addictive.

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Entrepreneur

An Entrepreneur is someone who starts and runs their own business. They are responsible for all aspects of the business, from product development to marketing and sales. Nir's course on building habit-forming products would be a great asset for an Entrepreneur. The course will provide valuable insights into how to create products that are so compelling that they will drive users to take action.

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Behavioral Scientist

A Behavioral Scientist studies human behavior. They use a variety of methods to collect and analyze data on human behavior. Nir's course on building habit-forming products may be helpful for a Behavioral Scientist interested in the psychology behind user behavior. The course will provide valuable insights into how to design products that are compelling and addictive.

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Academic Researcher

An Academic Researcher conducts research in a specific field. They publish their findings in academic journals and present their work at conferences. Nir's course on building habit-forming products may be helpful for an Academic Researcher interested in the psychology behind user behavior. The course will provide valuable insights into how to design products that are compelling and addictive.

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Consultant

A Consultant provides advice and guidance to businesses and organizations. They work on a variety of projects, from developing marketing strategies to improving operational efficiency. Nir's course on building habit-forming products may be helpful for a Consultant who works with businesses on product development or marketing. The course will provide valuable insights into how to create products that are compelling and addictive.

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Data Scientist

A Data Scientist collects, analyzes, and interprets data. They use their findings to solve business problems and make informed decisions. Nir's course on building habit-forming products may be helpful for a Data Scientist who is interested in understanding the psychology behind user behavior. The course will provide valuable insights into how to design products that are compelling and addictive.

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Software Engineer

A Software Engineer designs, develops, and maintains software applications. They work on a variety of projects, from developing new features to fixing bugs. Nir's course on building habit-forming products may be helpful for a Software Engineer who is interested in understanding the psychology behind user behavior. The course will provide valuable insights into how to design products that are compelling and addictive.

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Web Developer

A Web Developer designs and develops websites. They work on a variety of projects, from creating new websites to updating existing ones. Nir's course on building habit-forming products may be helpful for a Web Developer who is interested in understanding the psychology behind user behavior. The course will provide valuable insights into how to design products that are compelling and addictive.

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Graphic designer

A Graphic Designer creates visual concepts, using computer software or by hand, to communicate ideas that inspire, inform, and captivate consumers. Nir's course on building habit-forming products may be of some to a Graphic Designer who is interested in understanding the psychology behind the visual elements of product design. The course will provide valuable insights into how to design products that are both visually appealing.

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Technical Writer

A Technical Writer creates instruction manuals, technical reports, and other documentation to help users understand and use technical products. Nir's course on building habit-forming products may be of some use to a Technical Writer who is interested in understanding the psychology behind user behavior. The course will provide valuable insights into how to write documentation that is clear, concise, and engaging.

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Customer Support Representative

A Customer Support Representative provides support to customers by phone, email, or chat. They answer questions, resolve problems, and provide information about products and services. Nir's course on building habit-forming products may be of some use to a Customer Support Representative who is interested in understanding the psychology behind customer behavior. The course will provide valuable insights into how to interact with customers in a way that is helpful and engaging.

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