# CS-59: Explaining AI loan decisions

Category: AI & emerging interfaces
Level: Advanced
Suggested duration: 5–7 weeks

Original UXCharan practice scenario. Validate assumptions; do not present it as a commissioned client project.

## Problem
A hypothetical digital lender uses an automated model to approve or reject small business loans. Applicants who are rejected receive no clear reason or next step. Explore how to explain decisions honestly, show what can be improved, and offer a human review.

## People to learn from
Small business owners applying for a loan through a fully digital lender

## Core scope
- See the decision and main reasons
- understand what could change the outcome
- request a human review

## Research questions
- How do applicants react to automated rejections?
- What level of explanation is useful without being overwhelming?

## Edge cases
- Decision partly based on missing data
- applicant disagrees with the data
- appeal outcome is the same

## Specific artefact
An explanation screen with plain-language reasons and actionable next steps

## Evaluation question
Do applicants understand why they were rejected and what they can realistically do next?

## Work to share
Problem and role; anonymised evidence; alternatives and rationale; task flow; prototype; accessibility considerations; testing findings; revisions and honest limitations.

## Request feedback
Share a viewable Figma, document or portfolio link with Saicharan on WhatsApp: https://wa.me/917093809350
Include CS-59, your name, project stage and your main feedback question. Confirm review scope, timing and any fee directly.

## Methods
- Research planning: https://www.gov.uk/service-manual/user-research/plan-user-research-for-your-service
- Research consent: https://www.gov.uk/service-manual/user-research/getting-users-consent-for-research
- Design exploration: https://www.designcouncil.org.uk/resources/the-double-diamond/
- Usability testing: https://www.nngroup.com/articles/usability-testing-101/
- Accessible forms: https://www.w3.org/WAI/tutorials/forms/
- Portfolio storytelling: https://www.nngroup.com/articles/ux-design-portfolios/