UI Design Patterns
UI design patterns are recurring solutions that address common design problems. They serve as standard reference points for experienced UI designers. Although they are the spice, UI design patterns are not the conception of a designer; they are rooted in architecture and programming and are designed to optimize the UI development process.
UI design patterns are everywhere, on websites, in apps, and are often familiar to users. It takes a few seconds for a user to understand what to do in an interface designed with common UI design patterns. Adapting common patterns means that you can leverage knowledge and, at the same time, increase the ease of use of your product.
Most of us wear T-shirts, right? My shirt and yours may vary in size and pattern, but both fall into the category of T-shirts. Details can be added, or certain texts can be printed, but the structure remains the same, a T-shirt. It’s similar to UI patterns; they provide a general structure to work with, add, modify certain aspects to adapt to each project.
Why Are UI Design Patterns So Important?
These are not just common features that can be copied into an interface; they are visual strategies to quickly and efficiently solve certain UI design problems. Patterns also provide a common language for designers and establish coherence when many designers work on the same project.
The UI design patterns discussed in this article are not only useful for designers but are also essential for users. The reason why many websites and apps are so easy to use is precisely because of these common UI design patterns. Can you imagine a website without a navigation bar? Once users get used to seeing specific patterns, any change could lead to the loss of some users.
In the online environment, you can find countless libraries containing UI design patterns, and these often include the following elements:
- The Problem: What does the user want to do?
- The Context: How much should we use this pattern?
- The Solution: What is the saving solution?
- Examples: Where and how was the previous pattern implemented?
The Dark Side of UI Design Patterns
‘Dark’ UI design patterns are those patterns that manage to deceive users into performing a specific task without being aware of it. These patterns may include tricking users into signing up for emails, or users may be locked into subscriptions or direct debits. These ‘dark’ patterns, if used frequently, can easily destroy the trust between a company and its target audience.
UI design is based on empathy and creating a pleasant interface, not one that deceives you.
In conclusion, UI design patterns are means by which order and structure can come together to create a powerful experience. It is essential for designers to carefully consider these patterns before setting the final design.
The end product, be it an application or a website, should contain instructions so good that users don’t notice how they got from point A to point Z.
