What is meant by "obstacle-free paths" in user journey mapping?

The concept of "obstacle-free paths" in user journey mapping refers to paths designed to enhance user satisfaction without barriers. This means that these paths facilitate a seamless experience for users as they interact with a product or service. In user journey mapping, the focus is on identifying and eliminating pain points to create an experience where users can achieve their goals efficiently and effectively.

Paths that are easy but not realistic may not truly reflect the user's experience or the actual journey, thereby being less useful for design and improvement purposes. Paths that avoid all challenges and complications could imply an unrealistic scenario that users might not encounter, leading to a lack of engagement or preparedness for the actual challenges they may face. Finally, paths that are strictly linear and straightforward do not account for the complexity of real user experiences, which often involve non-linear interactions and different routes based on individual needs and circumstances.

Overall, the focus on designing paths that eliminate barriers acknowledges the importance of considering the user's perspective and ensuring that their journey towards achieving their goals is as smooth as possible, ultimately leading to greater satisfaction and loyalty.