I frequently forget many of the “User Interface Rules”. Sidenote: In this article, I will be using UI in short for “User Interface.” User interfaces are what the product is to users. For a successful web app, a good UI is a key component. The web app I’ve been working on is Lafable. It’s far from perfect, but it works. Here are 3 elements of UI design that are frequently forgotten.
3. Responsiveness
The application must respond to how the user uses it. The user needs to feel like they’re part of the application. It must allow for the users to make mistakes. The response time must be quick. The application needs to respond to how the user uses it-no matter how they use it, or what problem arises.
2. Learning Curve
The application must not have a steep learning curve. Users must be able to pick it up and understand it within seconds. The easy learning curve can happen by using icons that most users use on their operating system. I’m not saying to go out and steal Finder logos, but what I am saying to use the idea behind icons that are presented in the operating system. Example: Trash bin in Windows/OS X shows something being deleted. Use a trash bin to show deletion in your web app.
1. Consistency
This application must prove to be consistent throughout the way it is used. If a user learns what something does, it needs to have the same thing happen when the icon is used elsewhere in the application. This mainly applies while using icons to represent something in an application.
I hope this will help everyone in not having to use applications with crappy interfaces. What are your thoughts?
