The principles of Human Computer Interaction (HCI) and Information Architecture (AI) guide industrial designers, software designers as well as web developers. But just what does it all mean, and how can you apply proven practices into your web application design?
It all boils down to the "user experience", that is, the type of experience your web application delivers to those people who use it.
The questions you'll want to ask yourself before designing your web application, and during all stages of the development are:
* Is this useful?
* Is this use-able?
* Is this fun?
With those key questions in mind, our decision on whether or not to include a feature is much easier.
If you've already launched your web application, there's always room for improvement, so let's explore a few concepts that will enhance the user experience and make your customers wanting to return again and again.
As we discuss earlier, your web application should solve a real problem. That problem presents the opportunity for an entrepreneur to offer a solution.
The difference between winning solutions comes down to execution. Execution is how the solution is delivered.
In order to execute well, you'll need to limit your feature list and focus on the core problem that you are solving. These basic features work together to create the core of your web application.
The key to a great user experience is a seamless workflow from one activity to the next.
This notion of a seamless workflow involves the outward aesthetics like the graphical user interface and the functional aesthetics that is how a person clicks from one activity to the next.
By removing any bumps in your design and anticipating what a user would want to see or do next will greatly improve the overall experience.
Great design works well in its context, works well in its culture and does good to the world by promoting human dignity and justice.
Which designs do you consider a great experience?
Leave your comments below.
David
