The Ethical Dilemma of Unethical UX Design with Bermon Painter

Modern Web

In this episode of the Modern Web Podcast, recorded backstage at All Things Open, hosts Rob Ocel and Tracy Lee sit down with Bermon Painter, Composable Platforms Leader at Slalom, to explore how behavioral economics shapes ethical UX design. They discuss real-world examples like continuous glucose monitors, AI-driven personalization, and tackling dark patterns while balancing user trust and business goals. Berman also shares career tips and his unique open office hours, making this a must-watch for designers, engineers, and leaders alike.

Chapters

Introduction and Guest Welcome – 00:00

What is Behavioral Economics? – 02:36

Real-World Application: Voting Policies – 04:37

Healthcare Example: Continuous Glucose Monitors – 05:52

Design Challenges for Healthcare Apps – 08:12

Personalization and AI in UX Design – 12:52

International UX Design Differences – 14:08

The Ethical Dilemma of Dark Patterns – 17:28

Ethical Frameworks for Product Design – 20:33

Balancing Profit and Ethics – 22:39

Behavioral Economics for Engineers – 27:10

Berman’s Open Office Hours and Final Thoughts – 28:56

Outro and Sponsor Shoutout – 30:59

Follow Bermon Painter on Social Media

Twitter: https://x.com/bermonpainter

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bermonpainter/