Designing User Interface- Considerations and Modus Operandi
Whenever you design something that is meant to be used by certain groups of users, their level of understanding, perception of actions and things as well as their own preferences, goals and skill levels; will all be taken into consideration when designing something that is “easy” to comprehend. Designing an interface much like every other object of utility are one and the same in that sense. However, the following are some of the specialized specifics that should be kept in mind, when designing a user interface:
Make it simple
It is no myth that the best interfaces are those that are hidden in plain sight. Even after being there, it will not “feel” like it was there at all. Notably, it excludes redundant elements and is clear in the language utilized in what it is trying to convey messages, notifications, and labels.
Use consistent UI elements
An easy way to make your users feel at ease and are able to get around fast is by creating consistency by utilizing familiar and common UI elements found in other UIs that serve the same or similar purpose. To accomplish this, it is of utmost vitality that patterns in language, layout, and designs are created throughout the interface to bolster efficiency.
Smart design structure
By carefully placing the items, the attention of the users can be drawn towards the varying importance of the items; more importantly, it helps in readability and scanning.
Communicating with the user
Informing the users of the locations, actions, changes in state and or errors is a must! Through the usage of a variety of UI elements, the status can be communicated to the user. Thereafter the next couple of steps can reduce the frustrations dramatically.
Typography
Within typography, typefaces should be considered with utmost carefulness; as different fonts, sizes and arrangements of the text would help increase or decrease the scan-ability, legibility, and readability of the contents.
Colors and textures
It becomes easier to direct attention from or away from items by smartly utilizing aspects such as contrast, hue, textures, and colors to the interface’s advantage.
