8 Characteristics Of Successful User Interfaces

核心提示： Instead of gradually loading the page, Gmail shows a progress bar when you first go to your inbox. This allows for the whole page to be shown ins

Instead of gradually loading the page, Gmail shows a progress bar when you first go to your inbox. This allows for the whole page to be shown instantly once everything is ready.

5. Consistent

Now, I’ve talked before about the importance of context and how it should guide your design decisions. I think that adapting to any given context is smart, however, there is still a level of consistency that an interface should maintain throughout.

Consistent interfaces allow users to develop usage patterns — they’ll learn what the different buttons, tabs, icons and other interface elements look like and will recognize them and realize what they do in different contexts. They’ll also learn how certain things work, and will be able to work out how to operate new features quicker, extrapolating from those previous experiences.

The Microsoft Office user interface is consistent for a reason.

6. Attractive

This one may be a little controversial but I believe a good interface should be attractive. Attractive in a sense that it makes the use of that interface enjoyable. Yes, you can make your UI simple, easy to use, efficient and responsive, and it will do its job well — but if you can go that extra step further and make it attractive, then you will make the experience of using that interface truly satisfying. When your software is pleasant to use, your customers or staff will not simply be using it — they’ll look forward to using it.