UX Design Principles
Peter Morville, known as the founding father of information architecture, proposed the UX Honeycomb, consisting of 7 principles: usefulness, desirability, accessibility, credibility, findability, usability, and value-impact.[1] Mastering these principles will differentiate your product from others and make it more attractive to users.
Usefulness is a fundamental principle in UX design. It means that your product should meet user needs and solve their problems effectively. For instance, a calculator simplifies math operations, providing practical value. If users can't immediately understand your product's purpose, it indicates poor
In complex interfaces, it's crucial to prioritize essential features. Employ progressive disclosure, a method that introduces advanced functionalities gradually. This approach prevents users from feeling overwhelmed and allows them to grasp the product's functionality in manageable increments.
Pro Tip! Each time you doubt a design decision, ask yourself the question, "What purpose does this serve?" It'll help you keep your designs aligned with your product goals.
Desirability in
A desirable product pleases users in interaction, sparks positive emotions, and encourages repeated use. This can be achieved through intuitive design, satisfying interactions, or by simply making users' tasks easier and more enjoyable.
Consider Microsoft Excel or Word, for instance. Though not flashy, they are favored for their reliability and effectiveness in meeting user needs.
The principle of findability in
Here are some ways to enhance findability in your designs:
- Practice intuitive design based on user research to make
interactions more predictable for users - Keep the interface clear and free from clutter, avoiding unnecessary distractions
- Maintain consistency in designs and element placement across different pages
- Establish a clear hierarchy of items on each page, making it easier for users to locate and prioritize information[2]
Contrary to popular belief, designing for people with disabilities does not make designs boring or uninteresting. In fact, it makes design more usable and enjoyable for all users.[3]
According to the Baymard Institute, 25% of users abandon their cart because they don't want to share their credit card information with a website they don't trust.[4] Credibility is what makes your audience trust and believe in what you offer them.
You can make sure your product appears credible to users by:
- Being transparent about how you use users' data
- Including testimonials and reviews
- Highlighting your expertise in the field
- Introducing your team like the real humans that they are
- Including your company’s address and contact information
- Using trust badges and seals on payment
pages - Updating your website's
content regularly
Good products are designed to deliver value to both users and the business. However, the primary focus should always be on addressing the needs and goals of users. Placing user needs first ensures that the product serves its intended purpose and brings value to users. Neglecting user needs and prioritizing company profits can lead to wasted resources and creating a beautiful but ultimately useless product. For example, consider YouTube, which offers free
References
- UX Honeycomb – 7-Factor Design Framework for Great User Experience | Studio by UXPin
- 10 Guidelines For Navigation Usability - Usability Geek | Usability Geek