Every design idea comes from some hardwired creative potential lurking behind the scenes. From experienced artists to amateur enthusiasts, creative potential is what makes interface design so exciting. Unlocking this potential doesn’t require any sort of special understanding – it’s all about applying mental models to bridge the gap between user experience and design principles.
Let’s take a look at five ways mental models can enhance interface design:
1. Balance
To create an aesthetically pleasing interface, it’s important to apply balance as an artistic principle. Balance comes in two forms: symmetrical and asymmetrical. With a symmetrical balance, the elements of a layout are even. On the other hand, asymmetry is when one element is balanced by another, even though there is a difference in size or weight. For example, a large picture frame is balanced by a small vase in an asymmetrical balance.
It is key to understand the principles of balance and how they can enhance the overall design of an interface. Find the right balance and you have created a visually compelling design that promotes usability and engagement.
2. Alignment
The alignment of visual elements can have a huge impact on the success of an interface design. It’s important to align the different elements of the design in order to create a strong visual experience. Through alignment, information becomes easier to parse out and understand.
Take for example a button design. If the button is aligned outside the grid pattern of the page, it will stick out. This creates a break in the flow of the design and can lead to confusion. On the other hand, if the buttons are aligned with the page grid pattern, it helps users scan the page for important functions and drives engagement.
3. Contrast
Contrast helps create a visual hierarchy in an interface design. Contrast is used to distinguish between important elements in a design and helps create a strong focal point. By utilizing contrast, designers can draw attention to specific elements and away from others.
Contrast can be created through the use of elements like color, type, size, texture and shape. For instance, bold and eye-catching colors can be used to highlight important parts of a design. Through its effective use, contrast can really add to the overall interface design.
4. Proximity
The way we group elements and organize information on a page is called proximity. Using proximity in interface design can help create ambiguity or logical grouping between different elements.
By understanding how to use proximity effectively, you can help the user quickly parse and understand relevant information. It also aids in creating more unified and consistent designs.
5. Repetition
Repetition helps promote consistency in an interface design. Through repetition, key elements are reinforced throughout the design, creating an overall sense of harmony and unity. Repetition also keeps users from becoming overwhelmed with multiple design choices.
For example, if a set of buttons are used multiple times across a single website, they should look and feel the same. This promotes easy recognition and gives users an understanding of what to expect in terms of design.
Exploring Ideas and Color Theory
With the right mental models in hand, you can begin exploring ideas and designing beautiful interfaces. Color theory is an important one to keep in mind when it comes to design. Color plays a huge role in conveying meaning and emotions to viewers. By understanding color theory, you can create interfaces with purpose and meaning.
The important part here is to understand the power of colors when used with other design elements. For example, analogous colors can be used to promote a sense of harmony and balance. Whereas, contrasting colors can be used to create visual tension and alertness.
You can also use colors to draw attention to important UI elements, such as a call-to-action button. This can be of great help in increasing user engagement and conversions.
Understanding Fonts & Typography
Typography and fonts play an important role in the overall design of an interface. There are a few things to consider when selecting the right font for a design.
First, font size should be chosen based on the purpose of the element. For example, a header font should be larger than the body font. Additionally, font selection plays a critical role in design. Each font carries different emotions. Choose a font that reflects the overall message of the design.
Finally, there is the spacing between characters and words. Having proper spacing helps increase legibility and helps make the design more enjoyable. This is especially important on mobile devices.
Embracing Animation & Motion
Motion is a powerful way to add excitement to an interface design. Through the use of animation, designers can bring ideas to life and foster engagement. Animation can help convey information in a more meaningful way.
When used correctly, motion in interface design makes a compelling case for action. For instance, animations can be used to draw attention to key points of a user interface. There are many techniques for using animation to design effective user interfaces. The important thing is to use them in an appropriate manner.
Creating the User Experience
Creating an effective user experience is key to a successful interface design. It’s important to focus on what really matters to the user and create an experience that meets their needs. A good user experience is one that engages users and enables them to complete tasks easily and efficiently.
To do this, it’s important to ask the right questions. How will users interact with the interface? What elements should be included to make it easier to use? What should be left out to avoid confusing the user?
By applying mental models to your design, you can create compelling experiences that engage and delight users. Focus on creating an interface that feels intuitive and lets users do what they want to do quickly and easily.