What does the term "roach motel" refer to in UX design?

The term "roach motel" in UX design refers to a design pattern that traps users. The idea behind it is derived from the concept of a roach motel being a place where roaches can check in but cannot check out. This metaphor is applied to UX to describe scenarios where users can easily enter or engage with a feature, service, or application, but face significant difficulty or barriers when trying to leave or exit.

This pattern often manifests in situations where users are drawn into subscriptions, sign-ups, or certain interfaces without a straightforward exit or cancellation option. The design may be unintentionally manipulative, leading to frustration or dissatisfaction because it's easy to get in but hard to get out. Recognizing this pattern is essential for UX designers who want to create user-friendly interfaces that respect user autonomy and provide clear paths for exiting or disengaging when desired. By understanding this concept, designers can work to avoid these pitfalls and create more transparent and satisfying user experiences.