What does mean by User Interface (UI)Design and 10 User Interface Design Fundamentals
To handle something to accomplish the task for what it was designed, the interface is needed. It can be machine or software whatever may be. For software, it is called a user interface by which users communicate with the applications to perform an action to complete the task. User interface design is the design of user interfaces through which the users can interact with the application or devices. The aim of the user interface design is to design the interface to maximize usability and the user experience. The design must be simple and efficient for the user to accomplish their goals.
Types of User Interface (UI) are there basically required for User Interaction with the Machines
Command-line interface
The command-line interface is the earlier stage of the interface in which the users need to type appropriate instruction into the command line to perform any task or to communicate with the application. There will be some syntax rules for every command. Though it has advantages of minimum memory requirement, it is very difficult for learning command language by all.
Menu-driven interface
The Menu-based interface has a range of commands in the form of a list or menu to interact with the application. If the user knows the purpose of the application and can easily interact. The menus are always related to the action performed required by the user.
Graphical user interface
A Graphical user interface creates a visual environment by using windows, icons, menus, and other graphical objects to interact with the application. It helps the user easily understand the commands in the form of graphical designing elements. It is easy to use with minimum guidance or by self-understanding.
Touchscreen graphical user interface
The touchscreen graphical user interface is very similar to regular GUI, the fingers or a stylus are used to perform any interaction instead of a mouse or trackpad. These touchscreen GUIs are commonly seen in smartphones, tablets, and other latest devices.
Form-based user interface
The form-based user interface is used mainly for inputting data into the application. There will be a constraint for every field and can move between the fields by using enter or specific keys.
10 User Interface UI design Fundamentals
The application is designed for the users, so it should not allow the users to move away or find it difficult to use the application to complete their work. For this purpose, the design should be in a way to attract the user. It must be attractive and easy to use. Here we are listing the 10 User Interface (UI) Design fundamentals that to be considered while designing a user interface.
Know your user and their needs
You are designing for users to allow them to interact with the application to get their needs or to perform their actions. The design should match with their needs and so the user can relate and can easily interact. The interface elements, styles, words or anything used should be the replica of their needs. It should create some conversation with users to achieve their goals.
Pay attention to patterns
Don’t try a new pattern unless it gives a better experience and easy to use. There are many popular interfaces are circling among the users. They might be familiar and comfortable with these interfaces. By giving the same patterns you can make users easily connect with you. Users will be easygoing with familiarity and simplicity. Some common patterns users may be experienced are Facebook, MySpace, Blogger, Google, and more.
Stay consistent
Users always expect consistency. They don’t like regular changes in language, layout, and design. Once they completely learned your application and became familiar with it. The Consistent design will not distract users and increase their efficiency in their tasks. Users feel more comfortable and confident in performing their tasks with the unchanged application.
Use a visual hierarchy
The design of the interface should mimic the workflow of the task user will perform. Placing the elements, size and color should navigate the user to a clear path in accomplishing the task. It reduces the complexity of understanding the application. It improves the performance of the users. It will be easy even the users are new to the application.
Provide feedback
The User interface should communicate with the users to provide feedback on the user’s actions. The feedback may be shown as either visual cues or simple messages. It prevents them from moving further steps if a user is performed wrong actions. It helps in early identification errors of users. It also helps the user to continue the task without hesitation for positive feedback.
Be forgiving
Can’t say mistakes are not possible with a simple and clear design. Mistakes are still possible due to various other external factors. The undo option in design will help the user to correct the errors and continue the process without having to start all over again. Provide a message to teach the user with complete error details, so they don’t do it again. The first users are more benefitted by undoing options.
Empower your user
Don’t always allow the user to follow the complex steps to perform the known actions. Keep the design with some shortcuts to encourage users to become masters in your design. It fastens the user experience.
Speak their language
Keep the copywriting in your design conversational, not sensational. Use the language in labels and messages that are easily understandable and relatable to the user’s language. Make the users feel like they are interacting with themselves or peers, not with you.
Keep it simple
Always keep the user interface design simple and easy to use. Don’t make it more complex with trendy styles or unnecessary elements. Think twice or more before adding any features, whether it is really important. Don’t try to compete with complex designs.
Keep moving forward
It is not possible to come with a perfect user interface design on the very first attempt. Just keep moving forward until your design is reaching the perfect.
Keeping these 10 User Interface (UI) Designs fundamentals in mind, if the design is performed then it will be become user-friendly and improve user experience.
