PRINCIPLES OF GOOD DESIGN

My version thereof.

Good design is minimalist

If you have to add bells and whistles to attract attention, that means the core is weak.

Good design is obvious

Puzzles are fun sometimes, but if it takes unnecessary time and effort, you will lose the user.

Good design is inclusive

Good design must be usable by everyone in your audience- irrespective of digital skills, seniority, physical and mental capabilities.

Good design is straightforward

Keep the end goal in mind when designing- your design should help the user efficiently and quickly complete the end goal.

Good design is conscious

Think long term- what will this lead to in the future? Is it someplace we want to be?

Good design is intuitive

Don’t make the user jump the same hoops again and again.

Good design is customisable

Your user is unique- give easy and convenient options to help customise their experience. This could be data they are sharing, notifications they want, products they want to see, etc.

Good design is humble

Everyone messes up- don’t fight, learn.

Good design is user centric

Don’t expect your users to figure out how to work it, understand what they want, need, like, expect.

Good design is evolving

Time moves on and so does the user- keep up!