Importance of User Interface
User interface (UI) design defines how an individual user interacts with a digital information system. It is essentially a series of visual elements that a user uses to interact with the digital device.
The goal of any UI design is to make the users interaction with the device and the interface as smooth as possible. UI and user experience (UX) design are two sides of the same coin and both of them are incredibly crucial to the success of any digital product.
User Interface design rules
Place Users in Control
· Use modes judiciously (modeless)
· Allow users to use either the keyboard or mouse (flexible)
· Allow users to change focus (interruptible)
· Display descriptive messages and text(Helpful)
· Provide immediate and reversible actions, and feedback (forgiving)
· Provide meaningful paths and exits (navigable)
· Accommodate users with different skill levels (accessible)
· Make the user interface transparent (facilitative)
· Allow users to customize the interface (preferences)
· Allow users to directly manipulate interface objects (interactive)
Reduce Users’ Memory Load
· Relieve short-term memory (remember)
· Rely on recognition, not recall (recognition)
· Provide visual cues (inform)
· Provide defaults, undo, and redo (forgiving)
· Provide interface shortcuts (frequency)
· Promote an object-action syntax (intuitive)
· Use real-world metaphors (transfer)
· User progressive disclosure (context)
· Promote visual clarity (organize)
Make the Interface Consistent
· Sustain the context of users’ tasks (continuity)
· Maintain consistency within and across products (experience)
· Keep interaction results the same (expectations)
· Provide aesthetic appeal and integrity (attitude)
· Encourage exploration (predictable)
