What exactly makes an application seem 'intuitive' or a website 'easy to use'? The answer lies in a set of UI (User Interface - how it looks) and UX (User Experience - how it feels) design principles that, when applied correctly, guide the user and create a pleasant and efficient experience. Here are 7 of the most important principles.
- 1. Clarity: The interface must be clear and concise. Every element should have an obvious purpose, and the user shouldn't have to guess what a button does.
- 2. Consistency: Similar elements should look and behave the same way throughout the site or application. A 'Save' button should look the same everywhere.
- 3. Feedback: The user must always know what's happening. When a button is pressed, it should change its state. When an action takes time, a loading indicator should be displayed.
- 4. Flexibility: Provide shortcuts for advanced users, but maintain a simple path for beginners.
- 5. User Control: Users should feel in control. They must be able to undo an action and easily exit a section they entered by mistake.
- 6. Simplicity (Less is More): Don't clutter the interface with unnecessary information. Every extra element adds cognitive load.
- 7. Visual Hierarchy: The most important elements must stand out. Use size, color, and contrast to guide the user's eye to the most important actions.