Artefact Critique

Artefact critique is the practice of critically analyzing a prototype, sketch, mockup, interface, or other outcome to learn from it, improve it, or understand how it communicates. As a creative technologist, you often make things early and iteratively. Critique helps you reflect on what your artefact actually does, beyond what you intended.

Critique doesn’t mean giving negative feedback. It means being curious, analytical, and specific. You focus on what the artefact does or communicates, not on personal opinions or vague likes and dislikes.

Starting Point

• Choose an artefact. This could be your own prototype, a peer’s system, or an existing example from industry.
• Use structured prompts to guide the critique, such as:
• What is this artefact trying to do?
• Who is it for?
• How does it work — functionally, aesthetically, ethically?
• What are its assumptions or blind spots?

Key Points

• Focus on the artefact, not the person. Critique is not personal.
• Be specific. Instead of “this doesn’t work,” say “the interface makes it unclear what happens when you press this button.”
• Look at multiple levels: usability, technical feasibility, emotional impact, accessibility, sustainability, and context.
• Use critique to inform the next step. What should be improved, tested, or reconsidered?
• Practice giving and receiving critique in your team. It builds shared understanding and better results.