User Interface (UI) Principles: Hierarchy of Elements, Prägnanz, Similarity, Proximity, Common Region, Von Restorff Effect, Common Fate

What is UI?

User Interface (UI) refers to the visual and interactive elements that users encounter when interacting with digital products or systems. It includes everything from buttons and menus to layout and typography.

Hierarchy of Elements

Larger elements in your UI are typically perceived as more important than smaller ones. To maintain a clear and systematic UI, establish a hierarchy, especially in typography. Ensure that your UI design is responsive to different screen sizes and that touch targets are large enough for user interaction.

Law of Prägnanz (Law of Simplicity States)

Basically, Law of Prägnanz means, Preference is given to forms with a memorable and simple structure, in order to avoid overwhelming. The Law of Prägnanz suggests that the human eye tends to simplify complex shapes into simple, unified forms. Researchs also shows that people are better at processing and remembering simple shapes. Using simple and memorable forms in your UI design reduces cognitive load and prevents overwhelming the user. This principle highlights the importance of clear and straightforward design.

Ikea’s UI Example

Rule of Similarity (Color, Size, and Shape)

The principle of similarity simply states that when items share some visual characteristic, they are assumed to be related in some way. The items don’t need to be identical, but simply share at least one visible trait such as color, shape, or size to be perceived as part of the same group.

Law of Proximity (Spacing Systems and Grids)

Objects placed close to each other in your UI will be perceived as a group. This principle is useful for creating a sense of grouping and belonging in your layout. Utilize white space effectively, both within and between sections of your UI. A consistent grid and spacing system can add structure and cohesion to your design.

Law of Common Region (Creating Sections in Your Layout)

The law of common region helps establish visual hierarchy. Designers group elements by outlining or setting the same background color for the connected elements. It allows users to effectively navigate the design and understand where to look for the information they need.

Von Restorff Effect

Within a group of similar items in your UI, one that is different will be most remembered. This effect can be used to draw attention to essential features or elements. Color variation is a powerful tool for this purpose, but always consider accessibility concerns, such as color blindness and contrast.

Law of Common Fate (Behavioral Prediction)

When two or more elements in your UI behave in the same way, they are perceived as part of a unit. These elements do not necessarily need to look the same or be in proximity. This principle can be applied for layout purposes or to enhance user interactions. Imagine that on a website, there is a series of links or buttons. These links or buttons respond in the same way when a user hovers their mouse over them or clicks on them. For example, they change color or become more prominent when hovered over, and they respond with animation when clicked.

In Summary:

1. User Interface (UI): User Interface (UI) refers to the visual and interactive elements that users encounter when interacting with digital products or systems.
2. Hierarchy of Elements: Larger elements in your UI are typically perceived as more important than smaller ones, and establishing a hierarchy is important for a clear and systematic UI.
3. Law of Prägnanz (Law of Simplicity): The Law of Prägnanz suggests that preference is given to forms with a memorable and simple structure to avoid overwhelming users.
4. Rule of Similarity (Color, Size, and Shape): The principle of similarity states that items sharing some visual characteristic are assumed to be related in some way.
5. Law of Proximity (Spacing Systems and Grids): Objects placed close to each other in your UI will be perceived as a group, which is useful for creating a sense of grouping in your layout.
6. Law of Common Region (Creating Sections in Your Layout): The law of common region helps establish visual hierarchy by grouping elements through outlines or background color.
7. Von Restorff Effect: Within a group of similar items in your UI, one that is different will be most remembered, and this effect can be used to draw attention to essential features.
8. Law of Common Fate (Behavioral Prediction): When multiple elements in your UI share similar behaviors, they are seen as a cohesive unit, even if they don’t look alike or are physically close. This principle can be applied for layout organization or to improve user interactions, as demonstrated by a scenario where links or buttons on a website exhibit consistent responses when hovered over or clicked, such as color changes and animations.