In this article, we will be exploring some of Jakob Nielsen’s general principles for user experience (UX). The reason it is deemed as heuristics is due to having the generic rule of thumb and no specifics in usability guidelines.
- Accountability
Basic information such as loading statuses must be presented to consumers when they are waiting for a particular process to be completed. An example would be during a longer loading period, loading bars or logos should include short messages. This provide consumers with an explanation as to why they are waiting or introduce something they can or should do in the meantime. This prevents unnecessary frustration, confusion or inconvenience.
- Simple Communication
Communication should be relatively easy to understand and relatable to consumers, however there are things to avoid in order to facilitate simple understanding. Some considerations would be to avoidspecific industry jargons, over technical terms and long instructions. It is recommended to link theoretical terms to practical real-life applications. This allows consumers to view the idea, product or service practically. It enables them to construct possible solutions and consider these examples as a viable option that works. Instructions should not be lengthy but instead simple and precise. Certain web icons can emphasize pre-existing meanings such as the hamburger menu which is known widely as redirecting into more options or a navigation link on web pages.
- Links & Platforms
When a website has good user interface (UI), user freedom, and good linking, it serves as a good sign of success. These factors are important as consumers tend to encounter errorsdue to their lack of knowledge or webpage errors, hence it is useful to include an undo button or a home page link embedded to every page. The UIis something that is constantly taken into careful consideration in a web design Singapore agency. The inconsistency lies in the types of devices consumers use as not everyone is always going to be on the same electronic devices. It is important to integrate a good UI in website design and consider the platforms consumers are going to view them on. These devices come in the form of computers, tablets, and mobile devices. A successful outcome is determined by the seamless accessibility of the web page through all these devices, efficient layout and formatting that should be consistent regardless of where it is accessed from.
- Error Prevention and Recognition
Errors and mistakes are part and parcel of life, therefore, having solutions to resolve them is recommended as prevention is better than cure. Web designs with prior meticulous planning would reduce the probability of an error occurring on a website. This lowers the chance of encountering errors on a website by consumers. Forms or textboxes can highlight to user if a particular field or information format is not accepted. This informs users and helps them save time when doing the error rectification. Red textboxes or flags are implemented to display errors or invalid responses when filling up information on websites. Good websites include short messages or provide suggestions as a means of providing solutions in the information or the formatting that the users are required to input.
These are some of the aspects of Nielsen’s heuristics that aid in the hidden functionality yet holds high importance in UI and user experiences (UX). A good web design is more than just aesthetics but rather the functionality and focus on the users to provide relief or solutions to aid them.
Disclaimer: All credits due to Jakob Nielsen
