A strong user interface has as much to do with the visual design as it does with functionality. The visual design can steer users through the functions and create a memorable experience. Users are also accustomed to responsive, rewarding interfaces that run well.
Today, a user interface must check off many boxes, or else users will be disappointed. Figuring out how to deliver a great interface is easier if you take advantage of data and collaborate with a team. Follow along as we explore how to build strong interfaces using data and efficient design philosophies.
Designing and building strong interfaces takes a village. Everyone from the business intelligence developer and web developer to the visual designer should have a say in the process. After all, web design and engineering are iterative processes that require lots of thought and collaboration.
Collaboration is key, but you must also take advantage of all your resources. That includes user data, which can largely inform the design and prototyping process. Bridging data and design to build strong user interfaces is easier than it seems if you follow a few key steps, such as:
User analysis should be the first step of any design process. Today, you can access so much user data, and you must use it to your advantage. It helps to examine competitors with great user interfaces and build from there.
For example, you can examine data from their user base and identify what your target audience has in common with their users. From there, you can create a list of features and design choices that you want to prioritize for your user interface. It’s also a great idea to survey large groups of people to see what they look for in a user interface.
Cross-reference the results with your competitors’ interfaces and your design goals. Doing so can help you start the design process with data-informed ideas to set the tone. You can continually survey users and examine data throughout the entire process, even well into the design phase.
User interfaces vary based on what functions they enable. You can’t commit to a final design until you choose what you want the user to be able to do through the interface. For example, you may include features to help users access a messaging function or open a menu.
Ideally, each of the available functions should be easily understandable and feel responsive. Each function should also provide a practical use that helps users and keeps them on the site or platform. It helps to look at competitors, but there’s no reason to be beholden to them.
Everyone ultimately wants to use an interface that feels responsive to their actions. The best user interfaces have input, output, and helper elements, which keep users engaged. Include dropdown boxes, which users can click on to access new information and features.
Each interactive element should be obvious and rewarding. It’s also important to keep mobile users in mind when designing responsive user interfaces. Mobile users make up a huge percentage of online traffic, so the UI should work as well on mobile devices as it does on computers.
This should take place during the wireframing process, where you build a low-fidelity version of the interface. Wireframing lets you create a blueprint and work out the kinks while setting the table for what it will become. That way, you can ensure everything flows well before you apply the visual design aspects of the interface.
Your interface’s visual design is ultimately just as important as its functionality. After all, people expect websites and applications to look visually appealing today. That’s why you must collaborate with your team and embrace a visual aesthetic for your interface.
There is a fine line between a robust, visually appealing interface and a cluttered interface. Everything from the layout and font to the color scheme should complement the interface without distracting the user. During the process, you can upscale your wireframes and incorporate the new visual elements to see how they will look.
This is an iterative process, so don’t worry if you must go back and forth with designs, colors, layouts, and fonts. The best option is to pick a layout that highlights the interface’s functions without distracting users from their goals. It won’t take too long before the team settles on the right visual design, and you can move on.
Once you’ve settled on a visual design, you can prototype and test the interface. This entails building a fully usable version of the interface and showing it to controlled groups. That can include stakeholders, volunteers, and even professional testers.
This process takes a lot of trial and error, as the team may need to alter and update the interface as they get feedback. However, it’s the most rewarding part of the process, as it will take you closer to the finish line. The prototyping and testing process can also give you an idea of what the public will say about the interface.
Stay patient and implement changes as quickly and efficiently as possible to get the interface into customers’ hands sooner. From there, developers can turn the interface into a finished product based on the wireframes and visual design guide. Maintain communication to ensure nothing gets lost in translation and wait to see your hard work pay off.
Today, web design has been around long enough that it is more fine-tuned than ever. It’s much easier to split duties and ensure people aren’t spread too thin. However, you can only end up with a strong user interface if you prioritize teamwork and think about the user.
Everything from the responsiveness of the buttons to the layout of the dropdowns should exist to help the user. Users should be able to navigate the interface without pausing to figure out what they’re looking at.
The best interfaces to communicate with users through an effective visual design, and clicking through them should be fun. Creativity, communication, and collaboration ensure the process will result in a rewarding interface that users will appreciate.
