Minimum Design Principles For User Interfaces

Minimum Design Principles For User Interfaces

A good user interface makes a software system easy to use, intuitive and

unobtrusive.

Well-designed user interfaces are easy to understand; they contain

visible clues to their operation.

When developing a user interface we need to review it against the following set of standard design principles to ensure that the system will be easy to use.

1. The user interface should use a simple and natural dialogue.

Does it provide the information users need and nothing else?

Is it easy and natural to move between the different screens?

Is the screen attractive and simple to use and understand?

Does it allow for a range of user expertise?

Does it provide feedback on progress?

2. The user interface should use terms and concepts which are familiar to the

anticipated class of user

Does it use the same language as the users?

3. The user interface should be appropriately consistent.

Are the screen layouts used consistently throughout?

4. The user interface should include some mechanism to allow users to

recover from their errors.

Does it include clearly marked exits?

Users like to know that they can backtrack if they make a mistake and leave the system when they are ready.

5. The user interface should incorporate some form of user guidance.

Does it have built-in help facilities?

Does it guide the users, especially through the less common use cases?

The design of a user interface should be guided by the users 'requirements and the above design principles.