Visibility Principle

A user interface is only valued when the user interactions achieve their purpose. The first element of user interaction is what the user sees in the interface. Visibility is all about how clearly the user sees the state of the interface and all the possible actions. If the users cannot "see" how to use the interface, it is not adhering to the visibility principle of user interface design. Let's dive into some real-world examples and then follow-through with web examples.

 

Good visibility - car dashboard that is designed with everything positioned in a way that can be easily found and used.

 

Sleek design in this case compromises usability - auto-faucets have a great advantage of saving water, but its common challenge is "where to put our hands" to ensure timely hand-wash.

Style yes, visibility of main functions - a big NO! One of the most complex wrist-watch dial ever designed.

How many combinations!? Phew!

 

Most straightforward with high visibility - ATM.

Over to few web examples:

• google


• dropbox


• business catalyst


• high rise


• fidelity


• acosmin


• justdial

Employ commonsensical ideas like highlighting important parts of your web page on top center, avoiding dead-ends, and always suggesting users the 3 answers: "where he is", "what there is", and "where can he go next".

Suggestions?