01 Visual Hierarchy
Structure your layout to guide the user's eye. Use size, color, and whitespace to create a clear "order of operations." If everything is bold, nothing is bold.
02 Minimal Cognitive Load
The human brain can only hold about 7 (±2) items in working memory. Minimize the amount of thinking required by grouping related items and using progressive disclosure.
03 Consistency & Standards
Don't reinvent the wheel. If a user learns how to use a search bar on one page, it should work identically on the next. Follow platform-specific conventions (Material Design for Android, HIG for iOS).
04 Feedback & Response
Users need to know their actions were successful. Provide immediate visual or haptic feedback for every interaction. A button should "press," a link should highlight, and a loader should appear for long tasks.
05 Target Sizing
Design for fingers, not just cursors. Minimum touch targets should be 44x44px. This prevents "fat-finger" errors where users accidentally trigger the wrong action.
06 Accessibility (a11y)
Design is not just for the able-bodied. Ensure a minimum contrast ratio of 4.5:1 for text, provide alt text for images, and make sure your entire site can be navigated via keyboard.
07 Error Handling & Prevention
Good design prevents errors from occurring. Use field validation in real-time. When errors do happen, use clear, non-technical language to explain what went wrong and how to fix it.
Invalid Email Format
Please include an '@' in your email address (e.g., user@example.com).
08 Clear Wayfinding
Users should never ask "Where am I?" or "How do I get back?" Use clear breadcrumbs, highlighting of current page links, and a persistent home-navigation link.
09 Perceived Performance
Speed is a UX feature. If a system is slow, use Skeleton Screens instead of blank loading states. Users feel a site is faster when they see content loading progressively.
10 Impactful Microcopy
The labels on buttons and links drive conversion. Be specific. Instead of "Click Here," use "Start My Free Trial." Use a consistent brand voice that sounds human, not robotic.
Build the Future.
Great design is a series of small, intentional choices. Start your audit today.