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Processing steps
Explicitly communicate what stage of work AI system is in.
User benefits
- Users know the system is working, not stuck.
- Builds confidence by showing systematic approach (not random guessing).
- Creates opportunities to cancel early if wrong path detected.
Examples from our library
Browse all examplesWhy does processing steps matter?
Processing steps is about designing the most fragile moment in AI UX: the wait state.
Unlike parallel or real-time processing, there are a lot of nuances to consider:
- What should the user do while waiting?
- Does the user know how long to wait?
- Does the user understand the thinking?
- Can they interrupt?
User sees what stage the AI is in (thinking
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Solid overview of emerging design
patterns and well organised content
patterns and well organised content
Jacob Sullivan, CPO at Faculty.aiUnlock this pattern
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Curated by aiverse team
Last updated on Nov 10, 2025
Published on Nov 10, 2025
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