The application's user interface (UI) matters the most. The UI provides the means for people to interact with the digital world. It is the UI's appearance which brings good results while a poor UI will turn users off.
Take a look at this scenario. Let's say you come across a wayfinding kiosk, other digital signage, or even a company's website. Unfortunately, the UI seems too complex, and you cannot find what you are looking for, or it seemed clunky to use. You may have even given up on trying to use it altogether. In the end, a great deal of their content never reached you.
Despite the idea of, "if you build it, they will come," - thousands of unused applications are published every year. Why? Because essential interface designs elements are not considered.
Steve Jobs was quoted saying, “design is not just what it looks like and feels like. The design is how it works.” Similarly, a good UI has elements that are easy to understand, use, and access. It is made for usability, overall usefulness and accessible functions.
Here are user design concepts you need to know about.
1. Know the User
Who are the potential users of the interface?
What are the tasks they want to perform that your system needs to support?
Designing a good interface stems from understanding the users' goals, skills, needs, and preferences. Users want applications that meet their needs and are easy to use. Do your research to know which typography styles suit them. Identify the design elements that they are most comfortable with - from the size of text on the colour schemes. It is also important that you use their language throughout the interface.
2. Keep it simple and consistent
Does the user need this?
Make your design interface trustworthy, relevant and convenient. The best interfaces are simple, easy to use, and help users navigate through the entire system quickly. This is what people mean by "user-friendly". Know the important elements and information needed for the design. Also, facilitate efficiency by using consistent patterns in language, layout and design throughout.
Users will return to the interface again once they learn how easy it is to navigate. Remember that too much text and clutter creates a dismissive experience. It is better to avoid the pitfalls of overwhelmingly complex interfaces and focus on the question, "is this user-friendly?"
If you rephrase your question to: "Is this still user-friendly?" or "Is this user-friendly yet?" you have the key to maintaining success throughout the planning and design process.
3. Label effectively
No one wants to see a screen with too much information or confusing directions. Think of the application as a road trip and the labels as the road signs. Drivers will get lost if there are no signs, but too much labelling will also distract and overwhelm the reader.
Make your design interface purposefully so users will not get lost, but find what they are looking for instead. Ensure that there is information to guide and exact balance between information and simplicity. Do this by clearly labelling all controls, buttons and icons. Use icons that users understand easily, like that of a "home button." Also, provide clear and concise on-screen instructions to make it easy for users to navigate the interface. There is a learning curve for all interfaces, creating an interface similar to other successful interfaces can help reduce the learning curve.
4. Consider visual hierarchy
Set a clear map to help users understand your interface at a first glance. Ensure visual appeal by actually using design elements. Consider how the size, fonts, color and placement of each component work together. Use elements strategically and be purposeful in your layout. Careful placement of items also draws attention to the vital parts of the interface. This allows the user to focus on what is most important. It makes your interface scannable, legible and readable, and helps reduce complexity.
5. Provide feedback to users
Let your interface speak to users (not literally, but some digital interactions do have audio functionality). Well, this is about creating an interface that gives feedback to users especially when they perform an action. For example, buttons that change color when pressed, menus that scroll with the velocity of a swipe, or other responsive features. In essence, you want to create a response to their requests. This allows the user to feel a sense of interaction as if the interface understands what they are trying to do.
Users will be drawn in by the feeling that their actions have to mean. For instance, let them know whether their search made it through or the interface is already loading the information they need. Alerts should be brief, concise, and subtle. It does not take much to make a user feel that the interface is alive and friendly.
6. Create a rewarding experience
Build the interface in a way that invites users to touch it. Let the interface serve its purpose while also acting as a helping hand for users. Make it easy, enjoyable to use, and approachable. One thing that Apple is known for is the brilliance of their software and hardware in creating their devices and interfaces. Their user-centric design - that finger swipe, tap, and two-finger-pinch - makes it easy for users to connect with their products.
Empower your users and give them confidence in using your interactive screens or digital kiosks.
7. Keep the focus
Both innovation and practicality are essential in designing a user interface. As users begin to expect more out of an interface, you should never allow your interface to get stuck in the past. Old technology and design elements can make a system feel dated which causes it to lose the vibrancy that brings excitement to users. On the other hand, be cautious about moving too quickly without considering your users.
The key here is to create something that your users are ready for. Be conscious of the state of the art just like your users, and try not to fall behind them or jump way too ahead of them. Don't make your interface too advanced for the common users. Just focus on the sweet spot as you bring innovation that users are ready to embrace.
One great thing about interface design is that it never sits still. Treat it as an art that needs creativity and strategy. Don't underestimate the value of interface design and usability. The better the user interface is, the more your users will like to use it and be satisfied with it.