Cal Laird
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designwithcal.com
Cal Laird
@designwithcal.com
The ramblings & musings of a Service Designer at NHS 24. Neurodivergent and proud · Dundee, Scotland.

Design. Volvos. Tech. Music. Nature. Travel. Swimming. Plus the odd rant. Views are my own. 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿🏳️‍🌈🧠

designwithcal.com
I’m a big fan of innovation (duh) but if it isn’t broken, why “fix” it?
August 15, 2025 at 11:32 AM
Is this dark UX? I think this is dark UX.

I’ve let an insurance policy auto renew before because I forgot to turn auto renew off. Got most of my money back but minus an admin fee. Nightmare.
July 24, 2025 at 2:31 PM
… that I’d entirely missed. And I’ve been to that practice for years!

If they included something with the tubes they handed me, I could’ve avoided this and I’m sure many who’ve had to re try would be happier.

I’m sure it sounds trivial to many but it’s important, especially at a time of anxiety
July 16, 2025 at 10:46 AM
Oh goodness. Communication and clear content goes a long way in situations like this, especially with things of a sensitive nature.

I had to hand in a sample to my GP practice. Dropped it off at 2pm, turns out they had to be in by 12. Receptionist pointed out the 3 separate signs on the wall…
July 16, 2025 at 10:46 AM
Good idea. I don’t have the patience for that shit though 😂 I guess I will have to be a bit more methodical!

My underwear brand is the same. I love it. Need more of this
July 12, 2025 at 6:12 PM
Please tell me I’m not the only one?!
July 12, 2025 at 3:31 PM
Thanks for sharing this because I've actually been using those words interchangeably and I had no idea. I do now!
June 26, 2025 at 12:15 PM
Totally, I'm just being grumpy today. I love it when there are other options, just find it such a nuisance having to switch apps or the million notifications that appear on all my devices when I get an email!
June 26, 2025 at 12:07 PM
The cost. The time taken to print, stick it in an envelope, post. The environmental impact. The nervous wait!

The fact the letter arrived when I was away on holiday and I’d already waited over 7 of the 14 days I had to respond before they send a reminder letter.
June 26, 2025 at 10:42 AM
Not everyone wants to receive these by email, of course, and we have to consider those who don’t have digital access/skills. However, there were many opportunities where I could’ve said “I’d like to receive this letter by email.” Or even other formats.

I feel a blog post coming…
June 26, 2025 at 10:40 AM
First touchpoint was the letter saying I was at the top of the list and to call to book appointment.

Next was the phone interaction with booking team.

Latest is another letter confirming my appointment details.

I surely can’t be the only one who sees opportunities for improving efficiency?
June 26, 2025 at 10:38 AM
Looking good Ryan. Hope you and Allan have a nice time—sorry to not be there. Perhaps I’ll join you guys next year?
June 14, 2025 at 1:07 PM