Hide Watch Button On Lichess Profiles: A Simple Fix

Have you ever clicked the “Watch” button on a Lichess profile only to be redirected back to the same page? This can be a confusing experience, especially if the user you're trying to watch has no ongoing games. This article explores this minor usability issue on Lichess and proposes a simple yet effective solution to enhance user experience.

The Problem: Confusing Redirection

Currently, on Lichess, if you visit the profile of a user who isn't actively playing a game and has no recent games, the “Watch” button remains visible. Clicking this button, however, doesn't lead to a game or any specific content. Instead, it simply redirects you back to the same profile page. This behavior can be perplexing for users who expect to be taken to a game or a viewing area.

This issue primarily affects users who are new to the platform or those who aren't entirely familiar with how Lichess handles game viewing. The lack of clear feedback can lead to frustration and a sense of something being broken, even though it's just a minor design quirk.

It's essential to address these small user experience issues to maintain a smooth and intuitive platform. By preventing confusion and providing clear feedback, Lichess can ensure a more enjoyable experience for all its users, regardless of their familiarity with the site.

Proposed Solutions: Enhancing User Experience

To address this minor but significant usability issue, two primary solutions have been proposed. Both aim to prevent user confusion and provide a more intuitive experience on Lichess.

1. Hiding the 'Watch' Button

The first and perhaps the most straightforward solution is to simply hide the “Watch” button on profiles of users who have no active or recent games. This approach eliminates the possibility of a user clicking the button and experiencing the confusing redirection. By removing the button when it serves no purpose, the interface becomes cleaner and more intuitive.

This solution is particularly effective because it prevents the problem at its source. Users won't encounter the issue because the misleading button is no longer visible. This approach aligns with the principle of “less is more”, reducing clutter and focusing on relevant actions.

2. Displaying an Error Message

Alternatively, instead of hiding the button, Lichess could display an informative error message when the “Watch” button is clicked on a profile with no games. A message such as “Oops! There are no games to watch for this user” would provide immediate feedback and explain why the user wasn't taken to a game.

This approach has the advantage of being more explicit and educational. Users not only understand why they weren't redirected but also learn more about how the “Watch” button functions on Lichess. The message could also include a suggestion, such as checking back later or searching for other active games.

Choosing between these solutions involves weighing the benefits of simplicity (hiding the button) versus explicitness (displaying an error). Both options, however, represent a significant improvement over the current behavior.

Benefits of Implementing a Solution

Implementing either of the proposed solutions offers several key benefits for Lichess and its users. These benefits range from improved user experience to a more polished and professional platform.

Enhanced User Experience

The primary benefit is a more seamless and intuitive user experience. By preventing the confusing redirection, Lichess can reduce user frustration and make the platform more enjoyable to use. This is particularly important for new users who may be easily discouraged by unexpected behavior.

A positive user experience is crucial for retaining users and encouraging them to explore the platform further. By addressing even minor issues like this, Lichess demonstrates a commitment to user satisfaction.

Clearer User Interface

Hiding the “Watch” button when it's not functional contributes to a cleaner and less cluttered user interface. A streamlined interface makes it easier for users to find the features they need and reduces cognitive overload. This is especially important for a platform like Lichess, which offers a wide range of features and options.

A clear and intuitive interface can also improve the overall perception of the platform, making it seem more professional and user-friendly.

Reduced Confusion and Frustration

Both proposed solutions directly address the issue of user confusion and frustration. By providing clear feedback or preventing the misleading action altogether, Lichess can ensure that users don't feel lost or unsure about how the platform works. This can lead to a more positive and engaging experience.

Reducing frustration is key to maintaining a loyal user base. Users are more likely to continue using a platform that is easy to understand and doesn't present unnecessary obstacles.

Conclusion: A Small Change, a Big Impact

In conclusion, the issue of the “Watch” button on Lichess profiles with no games may seem minor, but addressing it can significantly improve the user experience. By either hiding the button or displaying an error message, Lichess can prevent confusion, enhance the user interface, and demonstrate a commitment to user satisfaction.

These small changes collectively contribute to a more polished and professional platform, making Lichess an even better place for chess enthusiasts.

This article highlighted the importance of user-friendly design in online platforms. For more insights on user experience and web development best practices, consider exploring resources like the Mozilla Developer Network.