What process does "wayfinding" refer to in user experience design?

Wayfinding in user experience design refers to the methods users employ to reach their goals, particularly in navigating a digital or physical environment. It encompasses how users find their way through a system, whether that's a website, an app, or a physical space, and is critical for helping users accomplish their objectives effectively and efficiently.

This process includes understanding users' mental models, their needs, and the contextual factors that influence how they seek information or complete tasks. By optimizing wayfinding, designers can create intuitive navigation systems, clear pathways, and supportive cues that enhance the overall user experience, making it easier for users to reach their destinations or complete their functions within a system. This focus on pathways aligns with best practices in UX design, which prioritize user-centric approaches to interface and environmental interactions.