In the modern, rapidly evolving world of mobile software development, apps have become a massively popular way of delivering services and content to end-users across vast regions of the globe. However, various studies have shown that up to 75% of users open an app’s interface just once and never return. In developer operations, creators should understand that user experience interacting with the app, fast loading times, and ease of use all play a part in keeping users hooked on their apps. The more comfortable a user can adapt to your application’s context of use while limiting their interaction levels (the number of separate tasks required to complete a task inside your app), the better the overall experience is for your users. Let’s focus on the secrets behind successful mobile user interface design.
User interface design best practices
1. Self-evident navigation mechanisms in the app
It is pointless to create the most compelling content and cool features if your end-user cannot locate it in the app. Avoid hiding your navigation elements. Keep your navigation element design consistent so users can avoid disorientation and confusion. Always indicate the user’s current location to them to help them navigate through your app.
2. Interactions should be optimized for target devices.
Devices such as mobile phones and tablets involve their distinct constraints and nuances when it comes to efficient app design. In developer operations, this means that the interface elements should communicate clearly about which are static and interactive. Consider that users cannot hover over various app elements to check for interactivity as they can in desktop apps. Developers should also create finger-friendly buttons that are big enough to allow easy tapping by users. In addition to this, app developers should always consider thumb zones, which take into account how users hold their phones when interacting with their apps.
3. Always allow for an interruption in your app design
Developer operations should always consider that distractions are consistently present in our world. It should be easy for users to return to the app even after a considerable interruption quickly. In essence, users should not experience any noticeable difference when using your app on the desktop or phone.
4. Intuitive gesture design and integration
The only gestures you should use are those that are the most intuitive and natural for an app in its category. In this aspect, gestures should be considered as hidden controls because users have to learn how to use them inside of each app. Therefore, it is advisable to keep gestures at a minimum inside your app design.
5. Always consider the user’s first-time experience
In many situations, mobile apps do not get second chances to make good impressions in end-users’ minds. This means that one should consider acceptable onboarding practices and design zero state (how your app informs users of an error in the application) without dead ends.
6. Apply functional animation intelligently to enhance interactions
When applied correctly during developer operations, animation can be used in showing system status, navigation transitions, and providing visual feedback.
Conclusion
As developers continue to enhance their skills in creating beautiful user interfaces for the best mobile apps, they need to consider various factors. These include functional animations, intuitive gesture designs, and the client’s first time experience with the apps.
